Dr. Becker

Reviewed by Dr. Becker

Dr. Karen Shaw Becker is a proactive and integrative wellness veterinarian.
feline idiopathic cystitis
Cat Tips

Makes Your Pet Feel Rotten — Linked to This Everyday Mistake

Ranks at the top of all reasons kitties visit vets, with an average treatment cost of $441. But what if you could sidestep these conditions in the first place, and pocket that $441 for yourself? Fortunately, that may be easier than you think. Here's what to know and do.
7 min read
dog behavior changes
Dog Tips

Why Your Aging Pet Needs Your Attentive Care More Than Ever

Sadly, many pet owners decide they can't deal with some of the changes that come with age and relinquish their pets in sobering numbers to shelters. Not unlike how humans can become crankier with advancing age, pets can too, and it's when your pet needs your loving support more than she ever will.
5 min read
ways to show dog attention
Dog Tips

10 Ways to Show Your Dog Love, No Matter How Crazy Life Gets

Who says it has to take hours of attention for your dog to know she's loved and appreciated? When you really focus, she can get the message in minutes or even seconds. If you're feeling guilty about not spending enough quality time with your pet, pull from this bag of 10 creative dog-loving tricks.
6 min read
struvite stones in pets
Dog Tips

If Your Pet Can't Do This, It's an Emergency

Some pets with this condition give no advanced warning. If they show any of these six symptoms, it has the potential to develop into a true medical emergency. If he can't pass this at-home test, get him medical help ASAP.
8 min read
9 most affectionate cat breeds
Cat Tips

9 of the Fastest-Bonding Cats You've Never Considered

Some say cats are notorious for being standoffish and unemotional, but nothing could be further from the truth — especially where these nine are concerned. They're some of the most cuddly and affectionate cats you could hope to share your life with.
7 min read
managing pain in cats
Cat Tips

25 Signs Your Pet May Be in Pain

Cats are masters at hiding pain. In the wild, animals who are injured or in pain become prey, so they've learned how to hide it. However, as your pet's caretaker, you need to be able to read the subtle signs because your pet isn't likely to vocalize it.
8 min read