Combing Through the Chaos (Part 3) Understanding Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
While conditioning methods are effective with puppies and some dogs, they can fall short when addressing behaviors common among adolescent or adopted dogs, and behaviors associated with anxiety and aggression. This does not mean that conditioning methods are, unto themselves, wrong, but, rather, that they have limitations, as do all methods! It is important to […]
Combing Through the Chaos~Drilling Deeper (Part 2)
Introduction Adolescent dogs, those approximately 6-24 months, are often described as defiant, bratty, elusive, and adolescent like, while adult dogs as stubborn and elusive. Studies show a decrease in bond, and an increase in unwanted behavior as puppies enter the adolescent stage. These studies, along with mainstream dog training, use exclusively Conditioning Methods, which brings […]
Dog Training Methods Combing Through the Chaos (Part 1)
If you are struggling with behavioral problems with your dog, especially with dogs over six of months of age, you are not alone! And, like many other dedicated pet parents, you begin to research trainers and methods to help you overcome these challenges, only to discover an overwhelming amount of information that is even more […]
Pediatric Spay and Neuter
When is the Right Time? “As with all medical decisions, there is no single “right answer” for every animal.” Dr. Ariella Samson, DVM Pediatric (or “early-age”) spay/neuter refers to spaying or neutering a puppy or kitten very young – typically around 6–16 weeks old, well before the usual 5–6 month age. In practice this is […]
Purebred, Rescue, Shelter…I’m So Confused!
“There is a puppy in a shelter within 50 miles of you that’ll fit your family.” Dr. Ariella Samson While discussing the challenges of getting a puppy from a breeder vs. a shelter, Dr. Samson said this: “If you don’t know who mom is, you don’t know who dad is, you’re not going to have all the […]
So You Want to Get a Puppy ? Be Patient!
Money shot of a litter from Snowbelt Aussies!
Lick, Scratch, Repeat:
Allergy Season for Pets Explained Spring is a season of renewal and rebirth—a time when nature bursts into life with vibrant colors, fragrant blooms, and warmer weather. For me it is the season to dive elbow deep in my flower beds which brings me so much joy but unfortunately also brings on a flare of […]
Lyme not Lime!
Everybody knows somebody- that knows somebody-that has been affected by Lyme disease. The symptoms in humans are plenty: severe headaches, joint pain, muscle aches, heart palpitations, dizziness, and fatigue, to name a few—it can be very debilitating and long-lasting. But what about dogs? Lyme disease in dogs is complex and often misunderstood. While it is […]
I Hate Sticks!
I hate sticks. Or at least I hate seeing a dog running with a stick or chewing on a stick. This behavior is forbidden at our house. Read on and you’ll understand why. During my career as a veterinarian I have seen too many injuries, some gruesome, associated with retrieving and chewing sticks. I have seen a multitude of […]
The Pet Economy (Part 2)
Why The Veterinary Technician is So Important and Why You Need to Know! “…most veterinarians will tell you that a trusted technician is worth their weight in gold. “ Dr. Ken Fisher, DVM By Dr. Ken Fisher, Dr. Caroline Simard-Swimmer and Howard Swimmer KF: Although there have been recent reports of the US labor market cooling, most veterinary practices continue to […]