Pet Advice from Dr. Karen Becker

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 and Whisker Announcement Bark and Whisker Announcement
dog hugging
Tips & Advice

Why Your Dog Likely Doesn't Care To Be Hugged

Some dogs tolerate and even appear comfortable with hugs, but hugging your pet can trigger negative emotions simply because dogs aren't wired for hugs. If your dog does either of these two things after a hug, take it as proof that she doesn't like to be hugged.
— 7 min read
mycotoxins contamination
Tips & Advice

Mycotoxins in Cat Food Responsible for Over 350 Deaths

Tragically, more than 350 cats died in 2021 from a group of blood-related deficiencies, and investigators are just now releasing their findings. It appears a certain ingredient in cat food was to blame, but this isn't a new problem. The issue still exists especially in this popular type of cat food.
— 7 min read
cancer screening for dogs
Tips & Advice

When Should You Start Oncological Screenings for Your Dog?

Tumors and other malignant conditions are the No. 1 cause of death in fully grown dogs, but when should screening start? Considering the factors that affect age at diagnosis, such as your pet's breed, gender and how much he weighs, a ‘one age fits all' approach doesn't work.
— 4 min read
national adopt a shelter pet day
Tips & Advice

12 Great Reasons to Adopt a Shelter Pet

Did you know you can often adopt a pet from a shelter or rescue for a frac-tion of the price of buying one? And possibly save on early ownership costs and receive valuable new owner support? With many more compel-ling reasons to adopt, help make yours a success by asking these five questions.
— 7 min read
pileated woodpecker
Tips & Advice

The Most Unlikely Zoo Animal Ambassador

This zoo recently introduced a new addition to their Ambassador Animal Program, a program that offers up-close experiences with guests. Norman, who lost his home and mobility to loggers, is blazing the trail as the first of his kind to become an ambassador.
— 4 min read
megaesophagus disorder in dogs
Tips & Advice

New: A Promising Treatment for Often-Fatal Eating Disorder

This swallowing disorder can lead to regurgitation, aspiration pneumonia, failure to thrive, and tragically, euthanasia in many cases, so any hope for an effective treatment is welcome news. Researchers have found a surprising treatment to help dogs successfully outgrow the condition.
— 8 min read
pythiosis
Tips & Advice

Deadly Water Mold: Under-Diagnosed and Difficult to Treat

If your pet has access to freshwater ponds or wetlands, be aware of this serious infection caused by water-loving organisms. Unfortunately, it typically isn't diagnosed until it's too late. Early treatment is key to saving your pet's life, so know the five red flags.
— 4 min read
sounds your cat uses to communicate
Tips & Advice

8 Sounds Your Cat Uses to Communicate

Chances are if you share your home with a feline, you've heard most if not all of these vocalizations, but do you know what they mean? While cats may make more than 21 different sounds, these eight are the ones you are most likely to hear.
— 3 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. Dr. Karen Becker cannot answer specific questions about your pet's medical issues or make medical recommendations for your pet without first establishing a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. 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.