Dr. Karen Shaw Becker - bark & whiskers

Analysis by Dr. Karen Shaw Becker

Dr. Karen Shaw Becker, a proactive & integrative wellness veterinarian. My goal is to partner with pet parents seeking to improve their pet’s overall health & vitality through wise lifestyle choices.

Tips & Advice

The Alarming Toxic Chemicals Lurking Inside Pet Food Bags

If your pet's food comes out of a bag, you need to know about this warning by the Environmental Working Group (EWG). Recent testing detected at least seven potentially toxic chemicals on 11 pet food packages from seven pet food brands that could place both you and your pet at risk.

Game Changers

The Challenges of Locating and Rescuing 'Fire Cats'

Shannon Jay, a retired police officer, experienced the nightmare of losing a pet when his indoor-only cat escaped and went missing for 13 days and nights. And then the California wild fires struck. A true Game Changer featured in the documentary 'Fire Cats,' Jay has become the cat rescue hero.

Tips & Advice

What Every Dog Owner Needs to Know About Heart Disease

Veterinarians once thought only older dogs could develop heart murmurs (unless it was present at birth), but now researchers have discovered that they are far more common, even in younger dogs. Because a heart problem can emerge at any time, know the five signs that your pup may be in trouble.

Food Facts

This Superfruit Offers Antioxidant Benefits

This superfood from the Brazilian rainforest is commonly added to smoothies for its antioxidant benefits, but when it comes to sharing it with pets, moderation is key. Here’s how to safely add it to their meals.

Tips & Advice

The Weird Sneeze That Can Terrify Pet Parents

Caused by a spasm of the throat and soft palate, reverse sneezing can send owners running to the vet, thinking their pet is in serious distress. Know what can cause this strange respiratory event, how to recognize it and what to do when it occurs to help both you and your pet relax.

Tips & Advice

10 Signs Your Cat May Be Suffering From a Deadly Deficiency

Cats require three times as much of this nutrient as dogs, so it's easy for them to develop a deficiency, especially if they eat canned or dried food. This nutrient is needed for proper nerve function, so a deficiency can lead to paralysis and even death in just a few weeks. Know the red flags.

Tips & Advice

Warning: This Sugar Can Poison Your Pet

Many pet owners know to keep their pets (especially dogs) away from any traces of xylitol, but they likely don't know about this sugar that's really xylitol in disguise. Know what to look for on labels of food & nonfood items to save your pet from its potential side effects liver failure and death.

Tips & Advice

Should You Share This Healthy Drink With Your Pet?

Many health-conscious pet parents consume this antioxidant-rich beverage and wonder if it's okay for their furry family members, too. It improves brain function and dental health, and reduces risk for malignancy, heart disease and diabetes in humans. Could it do the same for your pet?

Game Changers

Game Changer Removes Massive Tumor in Just 30 Minutes

When Dr. Elaine Cebuliak first opened her clinic, she was the only veterinarian in the area, so that meant no referrals to specialists. Having no choice, she quickly became adept at nearly everything, including dentistry and brain surgery. That skill and grit is helping her save many lives.

Tips & Advice

The Many Poses Dogs Strike to Relieve Themselves

Is it true that all male dogs lift a leg and all females squat to urinate? If you've spent much time around different dogs, you know there are many more variations - or 'signature' ways of peeing. What's the meaning behind each pee position, and why do dogs kick at the ground after pooping?

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