Ask Dr. Dog
The Scoop from Canine Health Care Professionals
This month’s issue is supported in part by SF Animal Medical Center and dog lovers like you.
Compassion Without Borders: How One Veterinarian’s Vision Changes Lives
Lorenz and I had made this drive countless times but that day felt different.
Breathing Problems in Frenchies and Other Flat-Faced Pups: What to Know, How to Help
French Bulldogs are beloved for their playful personalities and signature squishy faces. But those same short snouts can cause serious breathing difficulties.
Last Taste of Love: A Thank You Without Words
On her favorite blanket, Daisy, a wise old Labrador, lifts her head while her family pulls meat from the bone.
Acupuncture Can Treat That? Relief for Your Dog Beyond Back Pain
Acupuncture - the insertion of tiny sterile needles at strategic points on the body - is well-known for its ability to treat musculoskeletal pain in both dogs and humans alike.
Hot Dog! Protecting Your Pet From Summer Heat
With soaring heat and sudden power outages becoming the new normal, summer safety isn’t just a concern — it’s a responsibility.
On the Street with Vet SOS: A Day in the Life of a Pop-Up Clinic for Unhoused Pets
It’s hard enough for many folks to afford regular vet visits for their pets. Now just imagine trying to provide that care if you don’t have a place to live.
From Working Breeds to Family Pets: All Dogs Need an Emergency Plan
June is National Pet Preparedness Month, a time to ensure pets, service dogs, and other working dogs are included in your emergency plans.
Tell Me Where It Hurts: Exploring Innovative Pain Management for Dogs
Beyond traditional medications, new therapies are revolutionizing how we address pain in dogs, especially those suffering from chronic conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia.
Don’t Let Your Dog Be a Weekend Warrior
Full confession: I have been a weekend warrior - and I know it wasn’t good for me.
Bird Flu and Our Pets: What To Know
San Francisco has a very large and informed raw feeding community, and many of my clients feed raw diets to their dogs. To avoid the risk of H5N1, I recommend against feeding raw unpasteurized poultry.
Drop That! Protecting Pets During the Holidays
From Christmas trees to poinsettia flowers, holiday decor and plants can be irresistible - and potentially dangerous - to curious dogs and cats.
Grief and Gratitude: Sharing Stories at the End of Life
When I think of gratitude, I immediately think of our animal companions.
Back Problems? Holistic Support for Dogs with IVDD
It is estimated that IVDD affects two percent of the domestic dog population. Sometimes this degeneration is age-related and happens gradually, typically in older, larger dogs.
Don’t Sweat It! Cool Down Your Dog with These Peanut Butter Pup-sicles
No matter how you serve them, these tasty treats are packed with probiotics from non-fat yogurt, which support your pup’s smooth digestion.
Time Is On Your Side: Resolving Canine Anxiety, Stress, and Fear
If our dogs are anxious, stressed, or fearful, it’s our job to actively resolve these problems as soon as possible.
My Dog Loves the Ball: How Bad Can That Be?
As a veterinarian focused on muscular skeletal problems, I have a love/hate relationship with the ball.
Dog Meets World: Key Phases in Puppy Socialization
Many things that seem normal to us can be initially overwhelming to a young puppy facing something new for the first time. That’s why socialization is crucial for the success of any dog, whether a working dog or family pet.
Pass the Needles, Please: What to Expect at Your Dog’s First Acupuncture Appointment
As an animal acupuncturist, I’m often asked how I get dogs to sit still during their appointments. In Ed’s case, this included a nicely chilled can of Reddi-Wip.
Smile! A Guide to Dental Care for Your Furry Friend
If you’re a pet owner, you probably know how difficult it is to clean your furry friend’s teeth without feeling frustrated, winding up with toothpaste in your hair, or accidentally hurting your pet’s mouth.
Is My Dog Overweight? How to Help Your Pup Trim Down for Health and Happiness
Do you ever wonder if your furry friend is getting too chubby?