Dr. Becker

Reviewed by Dr. Becker

Dr. Karen Shaw Becker is a proactive and integrative wellness veterinarian.
genes associated human dog communication
Dog Tips

The Dog Breeds Most Attached to Humans

We're learning more and more about how ancient dogs became domesticated. However, some dog breeds clearly remain more closely related to wolves and don't look to humans for help, while others have a higher level of attachment to humans and may be less fearful and aggressive.
— 7 min read
ultraprocessed vegan pet food
Dog Tips

The Risks of Going Vegan for Your Pets

It can be confusing (at best) and downright dangerous to follow feeding advice handed out freely by an industry that will tell you anything just to sell its ultra-processed pet food. Find out what your dog or cat really needs to eat to thrive and some of the newest trendy ingredients to avoid.
— 17 min read
how your cat sees the world
Cat Tips

How Your Cat’s Vision Compares to Yours

Does your cat see the world like you do, or is her visual experience a unique one? Is it true cats can see in the dark - and are they really nocturnal? Discover what's true and what's not about your cat's eyes and how they see you and the world.
— 4 min read
how to protect dogs from tumor
Dog Tips

How to Help Your Dog Avoid Malignancy

While you can't alter your dog's genetics, there are many things you can do to help him avoid tumors and other malignancies. My No. 1 recommendation not only provides your dog with his best chance of avoiding malignancy, it could also help him live up to two years longer than others.
— 10 min read
7 home remedies for pets
Dog Tips

7 Natural Therapies to Help Your Pet Heal

Whenever possible, I use plants, herbs, essential oils and other nontoxic substances to help my pet patients overcome illness and maintain good health. And these seven therapies are tops in my book for itchy skin, allergies, tummy issues, constipation, killing off bacteria and soothing anxious pets.
— 5 min read
dogs personality can change over time
Dog Tips

8 Ways Your Dog's Personality Can Change Over Time

Human personalities can change as people go through life, so why would dogs be any different? According to this survey of owners of over 1,600 dogs, dogs' personalities can evolve to a surprisingly large degree. Know which dogs are more - and less - likely to experience these eight changes.
— 8 min read
Nix adorable miniature donkey
Special Species

First-of-Its-Kind Surgery Gives Mini Donkey New Life

Nix, an adorable miniature donkey, began having collapsing episodes at only a few months of age. Faced with the prospect of euthanasia simply because the parts of her heart weren't communicating with each other, her owners made a bold decision that'd allow her to live out her life to its fullest.
— 4 min read
can your dog decipher between good ill intent
Dog Tips

Can Your Dog Decipher Between Good and Ill Intent?

Is your dog tuned into your thoughts as well as your actions? Can dogs tell when their human is just being clumsy or they’re intentionally messing with them? This study shows just how important it is for dogs to try to connect with us on a mental level - and for us to help them do so.
— 7 min read
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