Articles

The following writing samples highlight some of my published work covering veterinary topics. (The canine hot spots article is provided here with the generous permission of NuVet Labs®.)

 

Once in a Lifetime Dog

Barney was our once-in-a-lifetime dog.  My husband and I met him one April afternoon at a city pound adoption event.  We were charmed by the Shiba Inu mix’s quizzical expression and calm and stoic demeanor amidst the chaos of barking dogs. He gave us that “what’s the big deal” look we came to know so well, and that was all it took.  We loved him right from the start. Read more…


The Importance of Compassion

Sunrise, the first of our cats to be diagnosed with diabetes, began exhibiting signs in early 2000, at age 10.  After the diagnosis was confirmed, Sunrise began a regular regimen of insulin injections and semi-monthly blood glucose tests, which turned in a 3-month emotional rollercoaster. During that time her weight dropped drastically and she seemed to resist all attempts at regulation.  It was frustrating and discouraging, and more than once I was driven to tears with worry.  Finally, when all else seemed to have failed, our doctor suggested simply trying her on a fresh bottle of insulin.  Voila!  We had achieved regulation at last! Read more…


Canine Hot Spots Ingredients

Canine hot spots (superficial pyoderma, or acute moist dermatitis), so named for their characteristic, inflamed redness and the affected dog’s desire to relieve its discomfort with excessive licking, are extremely painful reactions to underlying medical conditions, such as bacterial or fungal infections. Read more…