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If your dog’s itching is driving both of you crazy, here’s some information that can help! If you’ve ever had poison oak or ivy, you know how infuriating, stressful, and even painful itching can be. Your dog’s itch isn’t because of those plants, however. The top tip I have, based on my 40 years as […]

Do dogs’ personalities vary depending on their coat color? That’s what a reader asked, and here’s what science tells us about the answer. Q: I’ve heard that Labs have different personalities depending on their color. Is that true? A: That’s a persistent myth about many breeds, including Labrador retrievers. For instance, chocolate Labs are thought […]

No, you can’t get herpes from your cat. But feline herpesvirus is common in cats, usually causing mild symptoms but sometimes much more serious. Here’s what I told a reader. Q: My cat has been diagnosed with feline herpesvirus. What is it, and can she transmit it to me? A: First, the short answer, to […]

Of course this is partly a proud father moment. My daughter, trainer Mikkel Becker, is being featured by Barcroft Animals as she helps dogs and a pet pig with behavior challenges using reward-based methods. But it’s more than just a proud father moment. Mikkel is the Chief Trainer for Fear Free, and her strength, compassion, […]

We all know we need protection from the sun. What about our pets? Here’s what I told a reader who asked about her cat’s love of sunbathing. Q: My cat loves to nap in the sun. Why is that, and do I need to worry that he’ll get sunburned? A: Cats have made their way […]