Cat Relationships 101: Cats are often portrayed as "solitary" creatures. However, cats in the wild will quite readily and frequently choose to live in colonies, usually consisting of one intact dominant male and/or several subservient intact or neutered males, and a harem of females (both intact and spayed). When it comes to feline behavior and … Continue reading Introducing New Cats: The 4 Steps to Success
When beginning the search for a purebred dog, one can get overwhelmed by the sheer number of people out there who breed and sell everything ranging from Chihuahuas to Great Danes to the more rare Dogue de Bordeaux and Tosa. Yet there is a MAJOR difference between a "breeder" who just pairs two dogs and … Continue reading Responsible, Ethical Breeders: Why They Matter and What You Should Look For
This will be long, so please bear with me. The topic of veterinary bills and what goes into pricing is one that really needs to be discussed with every pet owner, but veterinary professionals rarely get the opportunity as it's a sensitive subject on both sides...and can be complicated. *cue foreboding music* Before I get … Continue reading Dachshunds, Doctors, and Dollars: The Rundown on Veterinary Costs
The topic of TNR and managed feral cat colonies is highly controversial. While many in rescue tout it as the self-sustaining solution to overpopulation, those on the opposing side are in constant defense of the devastating impact these cats have on native ecosystems, song birds, wildlife, etc. A recent ecological study in 2010 by the … Continue reading The Downside of TNR: The Ecological Devastation of Feral Cats
The actual pointed coat coloring that Siamese and other breeds are known for (as well as rats, mice, and rabbits) is simply a recessive form of partial albinism called "Himalayan".
The Himalayan mutation alters the enzyme responsible for melanin production, which is called Tyrosinase. The mutation restricts the ability of tyrosinase to oxidize tyrosine only at cooler temperatures; warmer temperatures deactivate the enzyme.
One of the most frequent topics to arise on reptile forums and Facebook groups is the subject of respiratory infections (RI). Not a single day goes by without at least one post in a group, or at least one PM or e-mail to me, seeking advice regarding a snake that is ill with an RI … Continue reading Respiratory Infections in Reptiles: The Importance of Identifying the Pathogen
In regard to prescription diets, pet food ingredients, ingredient labels, laws, regulations, and fundamental physiology, there is an endless amount of misunderstanding and false misinformation currently littering the internet. Many websites claim this or that, but almost always have some type of underlying bias, utilize unreliable sources, or do not have the necessary medical knowledge … Continue reading Pet Food: Demystifying the Physiology, Definitions, Ingredients, Regulations
Vibes from a Veterinary Nurse 