Analysis by Dr. Karen Shaw Becker

Dr. Karen Shaw Becker, a proactive & integrative wellness veterinarian. My goal is to partner with pet parents seeking to improve their pet’s overall health & vitality through wise lifestyle choices.

Dog Tips

Firm Bumps on Your Cat or Dog Attached by a Stalk — What’s Going On?

This growth may be benign, or it could be malignant, here's what to know. Your vet will need to confirm the diagnosis but these three breeds of dogs and cats are most susceptible. What to look for, where, and which locations might mean malignant.

Food Facts

Raspberry: This ‘Dessert Fruit’ May Help Boost Your Pet’s Immunity

Often used in pastries and pies, this sweet red fruit offers various antioxidants that may help banish inflammation. A few slices can make a delicious topper for your animal companion’s meals, to help give an added boost to their health.

Dog Tips

Why Are so Many Dogs Going Gray as Early as Age 1?

If your dog shows signs of early graying, even as young as age 1, you're not alone. A recent study tried to find the common denominators in early graying dogs. And what they found is as fascinating as it is disturbing. Here's what you need to know now, even if your dog isn't gray yet.

Dog Tips

Pet Intelligence Face-Off Sparks Debate

In the perennial battle of wits between America's favorite pets, new research throws a curveball into the dog vs. cat intelligence saga.

Inspiring Videos

Just Like That, the Goats Had a Kitten as a Playmate!

After two weeks of the gray kitten hiding in their goat pen, they called him GG for 'gray goat.'

Cat Tips

Orthodox Wisdom Says to Restrict This as Your Pet Ages — Study Says Don’t

Retired veterinary nutritionist proved that even in animals with kidney failure, restricting this failed to improve health or longevity. In fact, the more it was restricted, the sicker these animals became. But here's the new caveat that keeps getting ignored.

Dog Tips

Five Clues to Your Dog’s Itchy Skin and Stomach Issues

Itchiness and sensitive stomach issues can share a common cause - food. While the time of year your dog is itchy may be your biggest tip off, these five other clues could mean the issues may be food-related. How to identify problem foods and help your dog overcome food sensitivities.

Cat Tips

Often Overlooked yet Common Causes of Frequent Vomiting

Chronic vomiting in cats has become so common that many owners and even some veterinarians don't consider it to be a problem. However, it's stressful and physically taxing for kitty, and cleaning up is never fun. These two often-ignored factors may be at the top of the list of causes for vomiting.

Cat Tips

Your Cat’s Quirky Habit Unveiled

Ever wondered why your cat does that funny little butt wiggle before leaping? It's not just for show! Delve into the science (or the lack thereof) behind one of the most curious and charming cat behaviors.

Inspiring Videos

Honey Badger: Legend of the African Savannah

Rare footage reveals no threat daunts the snake-eating, shape-shifting honey badger!

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