Dr. Becker

Reviewed by Dr. Becker

Dr. Karen Shaw Becker is a proactive and integrative wellness veterinarian.
effects of spaying and neutering
Dog Tips

Spaying and Neutering Options Can Avoid Adverse Effects

Veterinarians often advise spaying and neutering to help decrease aggressiveness, yet there's no science to back that view. Furthermore, research continues to mount regarding the adverse long-term health effects of spaying and neutering. Here's the alternative I recommend instead.
— 8 min read
neutered golden retrievers
Dog Tips

Neutering Can Lead to Deteriorating Health

If you're concerned about soaring rates of joint issues, especially in Goldens and Labs, you won't want to miss this research. This striking data only adds new fuel to what I already recommend about this controversial yet very common procedure.
— 7 min read
neutering health risks
Dog Tips

Why I've Had a Change of Heart About Neutering Pets

Most American pet owners don't think twice about this routine procedure, and for the first five years of my practice, I truly believed I was doing the right thing for my clients. Now, after a disturbing discovery, I've changed my stance. And here's what I want you to know.
— 18 min read
desensitize pet
Dog Tips

How to Take the Stress Out of Veterinary Visits

Countless cats and nearly 80% of dogs are fearful and anxious when they go to the vet - so much so that some owners think twice before bringing their pets in for regular visits. If your pet is one of the many who dread the veterinarian, take these steps now to help fear melt away.
— 5 min read
cat leash train
Cat Tips

Could You Train Your Cat to Walk on a Leash?

While it may sound like an impossible task, most cats, and especially kittens, can learn to take walks outdoors with a harness & leash. Yet it's not as simple as slipping on any harness, attaching a leash and walking out the door. Here's your step-by-step guide to convincing kitty it's a good idea.
— 6 min read
male vs female dog behavior
Dog Tips

The Differences Between Male and Female Dogs

Are male dogs more intelligent? More loving? Are female dogs more temperamental? Find out what the experts believe along with the interesting findings from this 50-dog study. Plus: How breed characteristics can turn everything upside down.
— 5 min read
10 hypoallergenic cat breeds
Cat Tips

Allergic to Cats but Love Them Anyway? Try This

There are multiple things you can do to help minimize your cat allergies. And if you're looking for a new household member but afraid you may be allergic to cats, check out these 10 breeds that appear to be the most 'hypoallergenic' of all cat breeds.
— 4 min read
dog ear signals
Dog Tips

The Unique Dog Language Many Owners Ignore

Most people think this pair of features has a practical purpose, but rather, this study shows they are a source of canine body language that can reveal how a dog is feeling. Yet most owners don't know where to begin to understand all the signs. Here's a quick cheat sheet to help get you in tune.
— 6 min read
stress triggers for dogs
Dog Tips

10 Human Behaviors That Stress Dogs Out

You may do this as a loving gesture, but it can be confusing to your pet. And when you tell your pooch these two calming words, his stress level likely shoots through the roof. Most people think nothing about doing this to a snoozing pet ... do you?
— 4 min read
Subscribe to our newsletter for FREE pet updates
Thank you! Please check your inbox to confirm your subscription.
Sorry, something went wrong. Please try again.
bark & whiskers disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your own veterinarian or doctor. Specific questions about your pet's medical issues or recommendations cannot be answered without first establishing a client-patient relationship with a veterinarian. Your pet's medical protocol should be given by your holistic veterinarian.

If you want to use an article on your site please click here. This content may be copied in full, with copyright, contact, creation and information intact, without specific permission, when used only in a not-for-profit format. If any other use is desired, permission in writing from bark & whiskers is required. For media and partnership inquiries, please email media@barkandwhiskers.com.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.