Dr. Becker

Reviewed by Dr. Becker

Dr. Karen Shaw Becker is a proactive and integrative wellness veterinarian.
optimists pessimists dogs
Dog Tips

Is Your Dog an Optimist or Pessimist? A Simple Way to Tell

How does your dog see the world — does he have a positive or negative outlook on life? These Australian researchers devised a study to find out, and discovered how dogs act when they are pessimists. How to tell if your pet is an optimist or pessimist, and what that means for their happiness.
5 min read
feline gingivostomatitis
Cat Tips

Unmasking the Pain Behind Cat Bad Breath

Bad breath in cats can indicate a severe, underlying oral problem that may lead to more serious health issues. Find out what this could mean for your pet's health, the potential causes and the steps you can take to help your cat regain fresh breath and a healthy mouth.
5 min read
nutrish lawsuit
Dog Tips

This Mistake Could Make Your Pet a Target for Cancer

More and more pet owners are getting tired of being lied to and having their pets used as virtual guinea pigs for known or suspected carcinogens. Take a stand like pet owner Christine and tell these manufacturers you've had enough, too.
6 min read
can you feed grapefruit to your pets
Food Facts

Grapefruit for Pets — Sweet Treat or Sour Idea?

Juicy, refreshing, and rich in potent antioxidants, this member of the citrus family offers benefits to your pet's health, if they'll eat it, but make sure to serve it without the peel. Learn more about its benefits and how to offer it to pets here.
8 min read
captive killer whales
Special Species

The Dark, Hidden Truths of These Popular Shows

Corporations keep these animals for human entertainment and their own financial gain, yet the suffering these incredible animals must endure far exceeds your price of admission. You'll never view these popular attractions the same way again after you discover their dark, hidden truths.
6 min read
tips for handling pet allergies
Dog Tips

Have an Allergy to Animals? What to Do Next

Many allergic animal lovers brush aside the prospect of enjoying a pet. But is that as smart as it appears at first glance? Do the advantages ever outweigh the disadvantages? These 15 tips might help you decide what to do next — and even how to help allergic houseguests thrive.
5 min read
can pets eat pumpkin
Food Facts

Pumpkin: Jack-o'-Lanterns Aren't Just for Show

If you've carved your jack-o'-lanterns for tonight's festivities, make sure to set aside the pumpkin seeds and the flesh. Try making these delicious pumpkin pet cookies — a great snack your pet will enjoy!
7 min read