Dr. Becker

Reviewed by Dr. Becker

Dr. Karen Shaw Becker is a proactive and integrative wellness veterinarian.
overweight cats
Cat Tips

9 Out of 10 Pet Owners Don't Realize This About Their Pet

It's astonishing that owners are in such denial about this, and because of it, they are forcing their pets to suffer from unnecessary painful conditions and disease, as well as early death. And, tragically, all too often it can lead to euthanasia. Are you enabling this to happen to your pet?
6 min read
vitamin d toxicity thiamine deficiency
Dog Tips

A Must for You, but Too Much Vitamin D Could Kill Your Pet

This nutrient is sometimes added by mistake to store-bought food in too large of quantities, or well-meaning pet owners add extra amounts, thinking they're helping their pet. But either way, it can lead to a very serious and potential toxicity that could kill your pet within 72 hours.
6 min read
dog nuzzle
Dog Tips

The Endearing Ways Dogs Communicate with Us

Dogs have many ways of communicating with us, and some, like the slight tilt of the head when you talk or the warm, fuzzy nuzzling to get your attention, speak volumes. Find out what your pup may be thinking when he displays these and other heartwarming behaviors.
5 min read
breeding made dogs less athletic
Dog Tips

12 Dogs That Were Born to Run

Want a natural canine workout partner? While breeding has tampered with the athlete in many breeds, these 12 dogs love nothing more than to run. With some of these pups, you'll be out of breath way before they are! Plus, 3 cardinal rules before you start exercising with your dog.
5 min read
senior pets wellness checkups
Dog Tips

13 Telling Signs Your Dog Is Suffering from Doggie Dementia

Clinical signs of cognitive decline are found in half of dogs over age 11. And if they live to age 15, it jumps to 68%. Do you know these 13 signs your dog is losing his mental abilities — and the top 10 tips for keeping him mentally sharp during his golden years?
5 min read
debarking dogs
Dog Tips

This Barbaric Fix May Please the Owner, but Devastates the Dog

Restricted or banned in only a very small part of this country, this practice imparts cruel and unusual punishment on the undeserving victim. Luckily, not too many veterinarians are willing to do the surgery that some desperate owners request. Here's what to do instead to fix the problem.
7 min read
canine vaccination
Dog Tips

Your Pet's Immune System Might Not Need This

The American Animal Hospital Association has updated its canine vaccine guidelines in 2022, but it's more ideal to apply a different approach that takes into consideration these five criteria. If you do vaccinate your pup, be sure to request this homeopathic vaccine detox.
5 min read