Dr. Becker

Reviewed by Dr. Becker

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

Incredibly Photogenic Cats Living on the Top of the World?

The recent discovery of these long-haired felines - about the size of small, domesticated housecats - living on the world's highest peak has created a buzz in the research community after an exhaustive, yet rewarding, four-week journey. Find out how they learned the origin of these cats and more.
— 5 min read
dog lumps and bumps
Dog Tips

How I Treat Canine Lumps and Bumps

Lumps and bumps fall into the top 10 list of reasons pet parents take their dogs to the veterinarian. When do skin growths warrant a closer look by your vet, and is there any way to prevent them? Here's how I diagnose and treat canine lumps and bumps, including my top two rules.
— 6 min read
dog walking mistakes
Dog Tips

4 Ways You May Be Stealing Your Dog's Joy

Pet parents are often guilty of making these mistakes, which include not respecting their dog's basic needs and robbing him of the pleasure involved with one of life's most important activities. It's easy to fall into these patterns - are you aware that you may be doing it, too?
— 6 min read
7 year old dog
Dog Tips

Is Your Dog 7 Years or Older? 6 Things to Start Doing Today

Once your dog reaches the age of 7, she's officially a canine senior citizen. While she may still look and act like a youngster, it's important not to ignore this reality. Doing these six things - starting today - will help her stay healthy and happy into old age.
— 6 min read
flea and tick treatments
Dog Tips

Banned for Outdoor Use, yet Still Allowed for Use on Pets?

These chemicals are so toxic, they were banned - or at least restricted - for agricultural use. Yet the year after the complete ban of one of these chemicals, massive amounts were sold for the domestic pet market. Now, pets and the environment are paying the steep price.
— 5 min read
what you should know about feline diarrhea
Cat Tips

Why You Should Never Ignore Your Cat’s Loose Stools

If your cat develops diarrhea, or loose stools, it can be a sign of many underlying conditions. And unless your cat meets this one condition, ignoring it and doing nothing could be a regretful mistake. Whether it's acute or chronic, here's what you need to know about diarrhea in cats.
— 5 min read
nsaids dogs
Dog Tips

Red Alert: Just One of These Pills Can Harm a Pet

Misguided pet parents think that because these are OK for them to use, giving one to their pet won't do any damage. Not so, as these over-the-counter pills for humans can bind to protein in your pet's bloodstream and damage his kidneys, gastrointestinal tract and even his nerves.
— 7 min read