Dr. Becker

Reviewed by Dr. Becker

Dr. Karen Shaw Becker is a proactive and integrative wellness veterinarian.
dementia prevention
Dog Tips

One Simple Way to Prevent Dementia in You and Your Dog

Because doggy dementia looks a lot like dementia in humans, you both benefit when you do this on a regular basis. In fact, among dogs of the same age, those who were deprived of this were 6.47 times more likely to suffer from canine cognitive dysfunction, compared to those who weren't.
4 min read
World's Oldest Cat
Cat Tips

Meet Flossie, Officially the World's Oldest Cat

Equivalent to 120 human years, Flossie is not only a world record holder, but she's outlived two of her previous three owners. Now with her fourth and final guardian, see how she's acclimating to her new forever home.
7 min read
heartworm in pets
Dog Tips

What Your Vet May Not Be Telling You About Heartworm

Now is the time when the pressure to put every cat and dog on heartworm preventives kicks into overdrive. But there's a good chance you're not being told the whole story about this chemical insecticide that can be harmful. Here's what you need to know before you expose your pet.
6 min read
organ meats for pets
Dog Tips

The Best and Worst Ways to Feed Your Pet Organ Meats

Fresh, unprocessed organ meats are a nutritional powerhouse for both dogs and cats. But what's the easiest - and healthiest - way to provide them? No matter what the package says, I recommend avoiding this popular source at all costs. Instead, here's a quick and easy way to provide them.
6 min read
dog ccl injury risk
Dog Tips

Detect Your Dog's Risk of Ligament Injury With 98% Accuracy

While certain breeds (including America's most popular breed) may be more susceptible to developing cruciate ligament rupture, the reality is, this painful and debilitating condition can occur in any dog, no matter the breed, size or age. Now there's a way to know your dog's risk with 98% accuracy.
6 min read
can you feed taro to your pets
Food Facts

Taro: Cook This Root Crop Before Feeding to Your Pets

Popular in tropical places like Hawaii, this food can add an interesting texture to your pet’s meals, but make sure you cook it properly. Because it’s high in starch, only give it in small amounts. Here’s how to share it with them.
7 min read
unique traits of highly trained dogs
Dog Tips

The Unique Traits of Highly Trained Dogs

A new study confirms what many people suspect - highly trained dogs are different from their less-educated canine cousins. But as far as communication is concerned, is training needed for dogs to understand us or is some part of this ability innate? Another study with 160 stray dogs provides clues.
6 min read
how to make your cat feel loved
Cat Tips

8 Ways to Help Your Cat Feel Loved

Cats are different from dogs, and even from each other, meaning the way to your cat's heart is a unique path. How do you find the way so your cat will feel truly loved and cared for? With a little time, attention and outside-the-box thinking, it can happen.
6 min read