dogs

Simparica Trio Side Effects in Dogs

As a veterinary assistant, I love when dog parents ask safety questions before giving any medication. Simparica Trio is a popular monthly chew that protects many dogs very well, but like any prescription parasite preventive, it can cause side effects in some pets. The goal is not to panic. It is to...

Best Small Dogs for Seniors Over 70

When you are over 70, the “best” dog usually is not the one with the flashiest coat or the biggest personality. It is the one who fits your energy level, your home, and your day-to-day routines. As a veterinary assistant in Frisco, Texas, I have seen how the right small, calm companion can...

Dog Pregnancy Week by Week

If you think your dog might be pregnant, you are probably watching her every move and wondering what is normal and what is not. Canine pregnancy is short and busy, typically about 62 to 64 days from ovulation (often quoted as 63 days on average), and a lot changes from week to week. Below is a...

Cluster Seizures in Dogs

Seeing your dog have a seizure is scary. Seeing more than one in a short window can feel downright panicky. Cluster seizures are a true veterinary emergency because the risk of overheating, reduced oxygenation (especially with prolonged seizures or airway compromise), aspiration, and status...

Belgian Malinois: Temperament, Training, and Care

The Belgian Malinois is athletic, brilliant, and intensely driven. In the right hands, they are one of the most capable working dogs on the planet. In the wrong home, they can become anxious, destructive, and difficult to manage and, in some situations, unsafe. As a veterinary assistant, I have...

Rhodesian Ridgeback: Size, Exercise, Lifespan, and Health

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a powerful, athletic hound with a big heart and a bigger need for purposeful exercise. They are famously loyal to their people, often reserved with strangers, and they do best with owners who enjoy training, structure, and daily activity. If you are considering a...

Cataracts in Dogs: Signs, Treatment, and Living With Vision Loss

Cataracts are a common cause of cloudy-looking eyes and vision loss in dogs, especially as they age. The good news is that you can often spot them early, and many dogs do beautifully with treatment, monitoring, or simple lifestyle adjustments. As a veterinary assistant, I want you to feel confident...

Can Dogs Eat Cheese? Safe Types and Lactose Risks

Cheese is one of those foods that makes dogs look at us like we are holding treasure. The good news is that many dogs can eat small amounts of certain cheeses. The not-so-good news is that cheese can also trigger tummy trouble, add extra calories fast, and in a few cases can be genuinely dangerous....

Can Dogs Eat Rice? White vs. Brown and Safe Portions

Yes, most dogs can eat rice, and it can be a helpful, gentle carb when used the right way. In my experience in a vet clinic, rice comes up constantly in real life, especially in the classic “chicken and rice” bland diet for mild tummy trouble. The key is choosing the right type of rice, cooking...

Yes, dogs can eat salmon, and it can be a wonderful, nourishing protein when it is fully cooked . The big safety issue is that raw (or undercooked) salmon can be dangerous for dogs in certain regions because it can carry a parasite linked to a potentially fatal illness called salmon poisoning...

Australian Shepherd: Intelligence, Energy, and Care

The Australian Shepherd, or Aussie, is one of those breeds that makes people say, “Wow, what a smart dog.” And it is true. Aussies are brilliant, athletic, and intensely devoted. They are also a working herding breed with strong instincts and big daily needs. If you meet those needs, you get an...

Pit Bull Breeds: Temperament, Training, and Responsible Ownership

Pit bull-type dogs are some of the most misunderstood companions I see families fall in love with. In real life, many of these dogs are affectionate, goofy, people-oriented, and deeply loyal. They are also strong, athletic, and persistent, which means they do best with thoughtful training, daily...

Labrador Retriever: Personality, Exercise, and Common Health Issues

Labrador Retrievers have earned their popularity the old-fashioned way. They are friendly, eager to please, and usually up for anything as long as it involves you. But that lovable personality comes with real needs, especially daily exercise, smart weight management, and proactive joint care. As a...

Chihuahua: Personality, Size, and Common Health Problems

Chihuahuas are proof that confidence is not measured in pounds. These tiny dogs often act like they are ten feet tall, and when you understand what makes them tick, you will see why they are hilarious, loyal, and deeply devoted companions. As a veterinary assistant, I also see the other side of the...

German Shepherd Temperament, Training, and Health

German Shepherd Dogs, often called GSDs, are famous for their intelligence, loyalty, and work ethic. They are also one of the most misunderstood breeds. A well-bred, well-socialized German Shepherd is typically steady, confident, and deeply devoted to their people. A bored, under-exercised, or...

Best Foods for Dogs With Cancer

When a dog is diagnosed with cancer, it can feel like the ground shifts under your feet. As a veterinary assistant here in Frisco, Texas, I have seen how much good nutrition can support comfort, strength, and quality of life during treatment. But I also want to be crystal clear and evidence-based:...

Pomsky Size, Temperament, and Care

Pomskies are a designer mix of the Pomeranian and Siberian Husky, and they have a way of winning people over fast. You get that Husky look in a smaller package, plus a bright, people-focused personality that can be a joy in the right home. The key is going in with open eyes: Pomskies can be high...

Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs

Degenerative myelopathy, often called DM , is a progressive disease of the spinal cord that causes weakness and coordination problems, especially in the back legs. It is scary because it often starts subtly, then becomes more noticeable over time. The good news is that many dogs can still enjoy a...

Cavachon

The Cavachon is a small, affectionate mix of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bichon Frise. In my experience as a veterinary assistant, this is one of those “people-first” companion dogs who truly wants to be where you are, on the couch, at your feet, or following you from room to...

Probiotics for Dogs

As a veterinary assistant here in Frisco, Texas, I hear a version of the same question almost every week: “Should my dog be on a probiotic?” The helpful answer is: sometimes . Probiotics can be very useful in specific situations, but many healthy dogs do just fine without them. Probiotics are...