Acupuncture originated thousands of years ago and involves using tiny needles to stimulate different points on the body. The Chinese talk about Qi, (Chi) as an energy or life force that flows in our bodies. When Qi is in balance and flowing freely, we are healthy. When it is out of balance or blocked, we [...]

It was over a decade ago when Fred the cat walked into the warehouse of a local Ashland business. The scruffy tabby quickly won over the staff with his big eyes and engaging personality. Since that fateful day, these wonderful people have generously seen this alley cat through kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, urine crystals and arthritis. [...]

By popular demand – source unknown.   Day 983 of my captivity. My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I [...]

We humans have a tremendous advantage when trying to stay cool. We’re covered in these marvelous sweat glands, especially my uncle Olaf, and we do not have permanent fur coats attached to our bodies. (Except for my uncle Olaf.) Dogs however, have very few sweat glands and these are mostly in their pads. Dogs must [...]

Q. My vet told me my little precious cat was chubby. Where can I find another vet? I don’t blame you! Your vet should be ashamed. Tinkerbell is simply big boned and her commanding presence is enhanced by her superior girth. She may be horizontally challenged, but that is not her fault… stupid vet. I [...]

The call came over the intercom as I was preparing for surgery. “STAT in the Lobby!” I rushed out the door as my technician handed me a stethoscope. In the lobby stood an elderly man, a rancher. He wore a new plaid shirt and old blue jeans. In his arms was a beautiful dog, a [...]

She Died Needlessly The call came over the intercom as I was preparing for surgery. “STAT in the Lobby!” I rushed out the door as my technician handed me a stethoscope. In the lobby stood an elderly man, a rancher. He wore a new plaid shirt and old blue jeans. In his arms was a [...]

Q. I have 5 cats and, believe it or not, I’m single. Next week I have a date with this sensitive hunk I just met at the biker bar, but my entire house smells like cat pee. Help! A. This is a very common problem. It’s difficult to find sensitive hunks these days. For the [...]

The Truth about Vaccinations.     Are immunizations life saving jabs that can save you on veterinary bills? Or are they yet another way that greedy veterinarians can rob you of your last penny and endanger your pet in the process? When first invented, vaccinations revolutionized the medical field and have saved many lives. Anyone who has [...]

Every veterinarian gets the same phone call during the Holiday Season. Aunt Bertha is visiting from out of town, and she brought her little dog, a land shark named “Cuddles.” Cuddles has managed to get on to the dinner table and then proceeded to consume a two-pound plate of chocolate treats. Should she worry? Yes! [...]

I have a 4 year old American Eskimo mini. I came really close to having a complete dental done on him. I have a bad feeling about the practices of some vets in regard to these recommended very expensive and dangerous dental cleanings. What do you recommend?   Erin M. You are absolutely right. The [...]

Q. Why do Bulldogs have flat noses? A. Because they keep chasing parked cars! Q. I seem to be spending most of my money making my vet rich. How can I avoid this? A. That is a great question and I was just discussing this with my slumlord the other day. What if I told [...]