One of the most common reasons people have called me for a veterinary housecall is because their pet cats become very stressed out from the car ride, or worse, gets sick to their stomach or has explosive diarrhea on the way. This is of course, if they manage to catch their feline friend at all, because most cats, even if deeply asleep, know the sound of their owner reaching for the cat carrier. Having been a veterinarian for thirteen years within the four walls of a hospital, and only very infrequently making housecalls, learning the ins-and-outs of what to expect when visiting my feline …

Indoor vs. outdoor cats: It may not be Yankees v. Mets, exactly, but it is a much older and still very lively argument, often between people who will never be persuaded by the other side. Should you cast your feline friends out your back door? Cats are hunters by nature, so the out-of-doors may serve some cats well. The environment stimulates and enriches some cats, and allows them to hunt in a setting that's  psychologically healthy for them—it's what they have evolved to do. Studies have also shown that certain feline urinary diseases, obesity, and some behavioral issues are related to …

"Can you help me out Doc? Buster is shaking and hiding behind the toilet—he's afraid of thunderstorms and fireworks and I forgot to get his Xanax refilled!" Over the years, I've been on call for Independence Day, and have receieved many calls with concern over stressed out dogs suffering from storm and noise phobias, including fireworks. Here are some signs to watch out for: pacing, hiding, salivating, and trembling to urination, defecation and even seizures. Some dogs can even become destructive to their surroundings or themselves—even breaking their teeth to get out of their enclosures. In …

We all love our pets. And we like to include them in family fun. If you're thinking about having a summer barbecue or graduation party, you may not realize the potential hazards for your pet present at such gatherings. Emergency room trips with your dog can be avoided if you practice good sense when it comes to pet access to party fare commonly served this time of year. I've compiled some reminders about how to keep your pet dog happy and safe, while having fun. Pre-party checklist While shopping for your summer party, do not be tempted to bring along your dog for the car ride.  The …

Last week, my neighbor's 42 pound male Wheaten Terrier, a pretty sturdy character named Murphy, was attacked by a coyote in his own backyard.  Murphy is kept close to home with an invisible electric fence.  It keeps Murphy in—but it cannot keep intruders out. Murphy's owner put on the floodlights, as she does every night before letting Murphy out.  She stood on the deck above her backyard. Within minutes, she heard the snarls and screams of her own dog and an unseen attacker.  She broke out into screams of her own and headed in the direction of the outbreak, but could not see what or who was …