Ask Dr. Dog
The Scoop from Canine Health Care Professionals
This month’s issue is supported in part by SF Animal Medical Center and dog lovers like you.
The Hardest Decision: Knowing When to Let Go
As a veterinary internist for more than 35 years, I have helped thousands of people make one of the hardest decisions they will ever face: when to stop treating and assist a beloved animal to die.
Not Slowing Down: How Acupuncture Keeps This Senior Dog on the Go
A 86-pound Pittie called Demon first appeared on my schedule for acupuncture treatment last summer. What could possibly go wrong?
Is Your Dog Water Safe? Tips for a Happy, Healthy Summer
For many dog guardians, summers mean time spent outdoors with our pups near pools, lakes, rivers, beaches, and backyard sprinklers.
The Art of Memory: Why We Keep Painting the Dogs We Love
Dogs have long stood as a symbol for something deeply human: loyalty, protection, and companionship, a love that does not turn away.
Ouch! Healing and Preventing Canine Sports Injuries
Like any athletes, dogs who compete in sporting events occasionally suffer injuries.
Dog of the City: The Life and Love of Brixton
Some dogs belong to a family. Some belong to a neighborhood. Brixton belonged to a city.
All’s Fair in Love and Bromance: Social and Mating Preferences in Dogs
In addition to the hundreds of tests we conducted - observing various dog combinations - our Berkeley study team performed tests designed to tease out complex social relationships.
Miracle on Four Paws: How Darby Walked Again
When Darby was carried into our rehabilitation clinic in late May, few could have imagined how her story would end.
Compassion Without Borders: How One Veterinarian’s Vision Changes Lives
Lorenz and I had made this drive countless times but that day felt different.
Breathing Problems in Frenchies and Other Flat-Faced Pups: What to Know, How to Help
French Bulldogs are beloved for their playful personalities and signature squishy faces. But those same short snouts can cause serious breathing difficulties.
Last Taste of Love: A Thank You Without Words
On her favorite blanket, Daisy, a wise old Labrador, lifts her head while her family pulls meat from the bone.
Acupuncture Can Treat That? Relief for Your Dog Beyond Back Pain
Acupuncture - the insertion of tiny sterile needles at strategic points on the body - is well-known for its ability to treat musculoskeletal pain in both dogs and humans alike.
Hot Dog! Protecting Your Pet From Summer Heat
With soaring heat and sudden power outages becoming the new normal, summer safety isn’t just a concern — it’s a responsibility.
On the Street with Vet SOS: A Day in the Life of a Pop-Up Clinic for Unhoused Pets
It’s hard enough for many folks to afford regular vet visits for their pets. Now just imagine trying to provide that care if you don’t have a place to live.
From Working Breeds to Family Pets: All Dogs Need an Emergency Plan
June is National Pet Preparedness Month, a time to ensure pets, service dogs, and other working dogs are included in your emergency plans.
Tell Me Where It Hurts: Exploring Innovative Pain Management for Dogs
Beyond traditional medications, new therapies are revolutionizing how we address pain in dogs, especially those suffering from chronic conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia.
Don’t Let Your Dog Be a Weekend Warrior
Full confession: I have been a weekend warrior - and I know it wasn’t good for me.
Bird Flu and Our Pets: What To Know
San Francisco has a very large and informed raw feeding community, and many of my clients feed raw diets to their dogs. To avoid the risk of H5N1, I recommend against feeding raw unpasteurized poultry.
Drop That! Protecting Pets During the Holidays
From Christmas trees to poinsettia flowers, holiday decor and plants can be irresistible - and potentially dangerous - to curious dogs and cats.
Grief and Gratitude: Sharing Stories at the End of Life
When I think of gratitude, I immediately think of our animal companions.