Designer Mixes

False Pregnancy in Dogs: Signs, Duration, and What to Do

If your unspayed female dog is nesting, carrying toys around like puppies, or suddenly has swollen mammary glands, it can be scary. Many pet parents worry their dog is pregnant or seriously ill. The good news is that in many cases, these behaviors point to false pregnancy , also called...

Periodontal Disease in Dogs: Stages, Symptoms, and Prevention

As a veterinary assistant here in Frisco, Texas, I can tell you something I see almost every day: dental disease is one of the most common problems we treat, and it often hides in plain sight. Periodontal disease does not just cause bad breath. It is a progressive infection and inflammation of the...

Dog Warts (Papillomas): Causes, Treatment, and When to Worry

If you have ever found a new bump on your dog, I know how fast your mind can jump to worst case scenarios. The good news is that some wart-like bumps on dogs are benign papillomas , especially the classic mouth warts we see in puppies and young dogs. Still, not every “wart” is a papilloma. In...

Cat Bad Breath: Causes and When It Signals a Health Problem

If your cat’s breath suddenly smells “off,” it is easy to assume they ate something gross or need a dental cleaning. Sometimes that is true. But in cats, bad breath can also be an early warning sign of pain, infection, or even internal disease. As a veterinary assistant, I always tell...

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in Dogs

When a dog has ongoing vomiting, diarrhea, gassiness, or weight loss, it can feel like you are stuck on a frustrating loop of “better for a week, then back to square one.” Chronic GI signs have a long list of possible causes, but one common long-term cause (especially after the basics like...

Dog Aggression Toward Other Dogs

Seeing your dog stiffen, lunge, or erupt into barking when another dog appears can feel scary and embarrassing. I get it. As a veterinary assistant here in Frisco, Texas, I have talked with many loving pet parents who worry they have a “bad” dog. The truth is, dog-on-dog aggression is a...

Why Is My Cat Breathing Fast?

If you glance over and notice your cat breathing faster than usual, it is completely normal to feel worried. As a veterinary assistant, I can tell you that fast breathing can be something as simple as stress, or it can be an early sign of a serious issue involving the lungs or heart. This guide...

Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

If your dog seems perfectly fine all winter, then suddenly starts licking paws nonstop in spring or gets a red, bumpy belly after rolling in the grass, seasonal allergies may be the culprit. As a veterinary assistant, I see this pattern all the time, especially in active dogs who spend a lot of...

Urinary Incontinence in Spayed Dogs

If your spayed female dog is leaving wet spots where she sleeps, or you notice a little urine dribbling when she is resting, you are not imagining it and you are not alone. As a veterinary assistant, I have talked with many loving owners who feel confused or even guilty about this change. The...

Puppy Not Eating: Common Causes and When to Worry

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, and it can also be a little nerve-wracking when they turn their nose up at dinner. The good news is that a brief dip in appetite is common, especially during the first few days after rehoming. The not-so-good news is that puppies can get dehydrated and low...

Cat Eye Infection: Symptoms, Causes, and Home Care

If your cat’s eye looks red, goopy, or partly closed, it’s completely normal to wonder: is this just a little discharge, or a true eye infection? In cats, many eye infections show up as conjunctivitis , which is inflammation of the pink tissue around the eye. It can be triggered by viruses,...

Puppy Feeding Chart by Age and Weight

Puppies grow fast, and their calorie needs change just as quickly. The easiest way to feed confidently is to use three anchors at the same time: your puppy’s age , their current weight , and their body condition (how lean or chubby they look and feel). This guide gives you a practical feeding...

Weimaraner Energy, Exercise, and Health

The Weimaraner is famous for that sleek silver-gray coat and soulful stare, but the trait that shapes daily life the most is energy. This is an athletic, people-focused sporting and pointing breed that often needs around 2 or more hours of daily activity (exercise plus training and enrichment) to...

Shorkie (Shih Tzu Yorkie Mix): Personality, Size, and Health Tips

If you are looking for a small dog with a big heart and an even bigger opinion, the Shorkie might be your perfect match. This Shih Tzu Yorkie mix often blends the Shih Tzu’s cuddly, people-focused nature with the Yorkshire Terrier’s bold, alert, take-charge energy. The result is a pint-sized...

Poochon (Bichon Frise Poodle Mix): Personality, Size, and Health

The Poochon, also called a Bichpoo, is a Bichon Frise and Poodle mix known for a soft, often low-shedding coat and an upbeat, people-loving personality. In my work as a veterinary assistant, I think of the Poochon as an always-by-your-side companion: affectionate, bright, and usually happy to trade...

Whippet Temperament, Speed, and Care

Whippets look like miniature racehorses in dog form, but living with one often surprises people in the best way. Yes, they can hit breathtaking speeds in a sprint. But in most homes, a Whippet is a gentle, affectionate “shadow dog” who loves soft blankets, quiet companionship, and a predictable...

Irish Doodle Temperament, Energy, and Care

The Irish Doodle is a mix of two famously people-oriented dogs: the Irish Setter and the Poodle. When you blend the Setter’s happy-go-lucky enthusiasm with the Poodle’s intelligence and athleticism (Poodles were originally water retrievers), you often get a companion who is friendly, energetic,...

Can You Give a Dog Pepto Bismol? Dosage and Safety

If you have ever watched your dog pace, lick their lips, or rush outside with diarrhea, you know how helpless it can feel. Pepto Bismol is a common human over-the-counter stomach remedy, and many pet parents wonder if it is safe for dogs. In some cases, veterinarians do use bismuth subsalicylate...

Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

If you love dogs but allergies make you miserable, you are not alone. As a veterinary assistant here in Frisco, Texas, I meet families every week who want a dog that is easier on the nose and eyes. The good news is that there are breeds and designer mixes that may work better for some allergy...

Akita: Temperament, Loyalty, and Care Guide

The Akita is one of those breeds that leaves a lasting impression. Powerful, dignified, and deeply loyal, an Akita can be a devoted companion who takes family protection seriously. At the same time, this is not a “go with the flow” dog. Akitas are independent thinkers with strong instincts, and...