Australian Shepherd Breed Guide
Discover the ultimate Australian Shepherd dog breed guide. Learn about their traits, history, personality, health, grooming, training, and nutrition. Expert insights from Dr. Carol Osborne.



Discover the ultimate Australian Shepherd dog breed guide. Learn about their traits, history, personality, health, grooming, training, and nutrition. Expert insights from Dr. Carol Osborne.
Does your cat suffer from anxiety or show signs of stress? Does your feline groom him or herself excessively? Lick their fur constantly? Pull or rip out the fur on their groin? Destroy your home when you are gone? How to Enhance Your Cat’s Environment Creating a dynamic interior environment requires some creativity, but there are many…
Discover the German Shorthaired Pointer breed—traits, history, care, training, health, and why this active, loyal dog may be the perfect companion. The German Shorthaired Pointer (often shortened to GSP) is one of the most versatile and energetic dog breeds in the world. With its sleek athletic build, expressive eyes, and boundless enthusiasm, this breed has…
Few dog breeds strike the perfect balance between beauty, brains, and versatility like the Poodle. Whether you’re drawn to the Standard, Miniature, or Toy variety, the Poodle offers something truly special. Ranked among the most popular dog breeds in America, Poodles are cherished not only for their sophisticated appearance but also for their remarkable intelligence,…
While fireworks, barbecues, and patriotic celebrations are a cherished part of July 4th Independence Day, they can be overwhelming – and even dangerous – for our pets. Loud noises, flashing lights, unfamiliar guests, and tempting party foods can turn a fun day into a frantic one for Fido and Fluffy. Integrative veterinarian and author Carol…
What is Canine Skin Fold Dermatitis in Dogs Skin fold dermatitis in dogs, also known as intertrigo, occurs due to friction between two opposing skin folds. Skin folds on the face and tail are not uncommon in certain breeds, including America’s favorites, Frenchie’s and Bulldogs. The constant friction damages the skin cells, leading to inflammation…
A family vacation isn’t a family vacation unless Fido and/or Fluffy come along for the adventure. But travel can be stressful for pets and owners alike. Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM offers must-have advice for those who ‘have pet, will travel’! Stress-free travel with your furry friend: Important considerations when planning a road trip for you and your…
Discover everything you need to know about caring for your Dachshund. Learn about breed traits, health, grooming, exercise, and more from Dr. Carol Osborne. The Dachshund, also known as the “wiener dog” or “sausage dog,” is a small, long-bodied breed famous for its bold personality, loyalty, and hunting instincts. Originally bred in Germany to chase…
A dog belly button may be hard to find, but all dogs have them. It’s no secret that most dogs love belly rubs, but as you give your furry friend a tummy pat, you might have wondered whether there’s a belly button beneath that thin layer of fur. Canine belly buttons can be hard to detect, but…
How Every Bite Can Heal, Harm, or Help Your Pet Thrive. Have you ever taken a moment to truly look at what’s in your pet’s food bowl? Not just glance at the label—but really look at the ingredients, the source, the nutritional balance, and the purpose behind each bite? What you feed your pet isn’t…
Yorkshire Terrier enthusiasts frequently marvel at the outsized personality contained within these diminutive canines. These spirited companions have rightfully earned their “Tomboy Toy” nickname through their bold, assertive temperament, despite their modest 4-7 pound weight and 8-9 inch height. Through my extensive veterinary practice, I’ve examined hundreds of Yorkshire Terrier patients, discovering clinical nuances that extend…
One day, you take a closer look at your cat and think, “Hmm, they’re looking a little thin.” You run your hands through their fluffy fur, and they feel leaner than usual. That’s when the concern kicks in: Why is my cat losing weight? If your cat is losing weight unintentionally, a health issue may be the…
Has your pet experienced a bad reaction after having a shot for Rabies, Distemper, or Parvovirus? The pet groomer will not accept your dog because a shot is overdue. Does your condominium, apartment complex, or homeowners’ association require proof that your pet is up to date on all the necessary shots and vaccinations? Traveling and…
Longevity drugs for our canine companions are around the corner. Could they extend the life of your dog? Americans love dogs! In a recent survey, 90% of dog owners said they would be willing to spend or do anything to extend their “best friend’s” life a little longer. Extending your dog’s lifespan is truly becoming…
It may sound like hocus-pocus, but now pet owners can determine their dog’s age by analyzing their pet’s saliva. Enter the fascinating world of Epigenetics, a relatively new branch of science that delves into the study of genes and their “genetic” expression. Genes, composed of segments of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), determine your dog’s eye color,…
Retriever dogs are sporting dogs bred and trained to retrieve game for hunters. The six recognized types of retriever dog breeds include well-known breeds like Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. “With their intelligence, sociability, and responsiveness to training, retrievers are a breed that easily win hearts,” says Dr. Carol Osborne, veterinarian at Chagrin…
Canine bone cancer, responsible for the deaths of over six million dogs aged two years and older, now has new hope. The USDA has recently approved immunotherapy, a treatment that harnesses the dog’s immune system to fight the disease. Previously, this treatment was available only through clinical trials as an experimental option. Osteosarcoma is the…
How can pet owners estimate their dog or cat’s age if they weren’t present at birth or didn’t buy from a breeder? Many pet owners find their pets at rescues and shelters. How do dogs and cats age? Lifestyle is the most significant factor affecting how your pet ages. Lifestyle is 70% of the equation,…
Just like humans, dogs can develop diabetes, which is a metabolic disorder that leads to chronically high blood sugar levels. And while diabetes in dogs requires lifelong management, early detection can make all the difference. By catching the disease early and providing ongoing treatment and care, dogs with diabetes can continue to live their best, tail-wagging lives. …
Yeast infections in dogs can cause some seriously uncomfortable symptoms—think constant itching, irritated skin, and that unmistakable “yeasty” smell similar to Fritos corn chips. (Sorry if we just ruined that snack for you!) While yeast—a type of fungus—naturally lives on a dog’s skin and in their ears, overgrowth can turn into an infection that leaves your dog…
Raw food diets for pets are becoming increasingly popular because they are less processed and more nutrient-dense than most commercial pet diets currently available. These diets usually emphasize bones, raw meat, fruits, and vegetables. While some sing the praises of this dietary regimen, others argue against it as owners could run the risk of harming…
Wintertime Safety Tips for Dogs and Cats can be challenging, but to keep our dogs and cats healthy and happy you should know the following. The cold weather often brings a slew of potential problems to avoid when it comes to keeping Fido and Fluffy out of trouble. Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM offers a few essential safety tips to get your furry friend through these frigid months without a trip to the vet’s office.
With its festive red or white flowers, poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is one of the most common holiday winter plants. But are poinsettias poisonous to cats and dogs? And if your pet eats the toxic plant, what should you do? Are Poinsettias Poisonous to Cats? Poinsettias are on the ASPCA® list of toxic plants and are considered poisonous to cats. But…
It’s that time again to deck the halls. But you should be careful when it comes to breaking out your Christmas decorations if you have pets. While they may look festive, they can also be deadly. Take the fiesty mistletoe for instance. The Christmas decoration is popular among holiday romantics looking to lock lips with that special…
A woman who recently learned that her dog has cancer has told Newsweek how she first noticed something was wrong, and explained his unusual symptoms. In July, McKenna Allen, 27, noticed her dog’s left eye appeared slightly red, but at the time she thought little of it. She assumed that the husky and Labrador mix, named Slate,…
Hyperthyroidism isn’t a dealbreaker. Learn what it takes to care for a dog with hyperthyroidism. You visited a shelter and instantly fell in love with a dog, but the staff informs you the dog has hyperthyroidism. Naturally, you wonder what adopting a dog with hyperthyroidism entails. How much extra care do they need? What does treatment look…
Halloween celebrations pose unexpected challenges to pets, and their safety needs proper attention during this time. Halloween pet safety tips play a significant role because the holiday brings unique risks ranging from toxic treats to situations that cause anxiety. Pet owners should recognize what it all means to protect their furry family members throughout the festivities. Your pet’s safety…
A woman who recently learned that her dog has cancer (Leukemia) has told Newsweek how she first noticed something was wrong, and explained his unusual symptoms. In July, McKenna Allen, 27, noticed her dog’s left eye appeared slightly red, but at the time she thought little of it. She assumed that the husky and Labrador mix, named…
Yes, dogs get breast cancer too! The incidence of mammary tumors is higher in dogs than in any other domesticated animal and is three times higher than the incidence in humans! Mammary tumors are the most common cancer found in non-spayed female dogs. Integrative veterinarian, Carol Osborne, DVM, offers tips and insight for female dog owners…
Learn essential grooming techniques for a healthy, well-maintained pup. Caring for your dog’s hair, teeth, nails, and ears goes far beyond just appearance—it’s about ensuring their overall well-being and preventing potential health issues down the line. From dental care to nail trims to brushing, understanding the proper techniques and timing can help keep your pup…