Q: Our daughter, who recently bought her first house, has been talking about getting a puppy. She will be hosting Hanukkah this year, and we’d love to see her face when a cute little puppy sporting a big blue bow springs from the box we give her. However, we’re nervous about giving her a pet…

Q: The veterinarian says my cat has tooth resorption, so I made an appointment for her to have dental X-rays and probably tooth extraction. What can you tell me about this condition? A: Tooth resorption, previously called feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions or neck lesions because they’re often seen on the neck of the tooth where…

Q: My dog recently developed a red eye. What causes this? Should I try putting human eye drops in his eye? A: A red eye can result from any number of diseases, some of which threaten vision if not addressed quickly. So, when you see a red eye, take your pet to the veterinarian immediately….

Q: My kitty Simba is a pussycat at home, but he turns into a lion every time we go to the animal hospital. The staff is gentle with him, but he hisses and growls, and I’m afraid he will bite them. What should I do? A: Before your next visit, ask your veterinarian about an…

Q: May we treat our dog and cat to some Thanksgiving leftovers? Is it OK for the cat to clean the remaining meat from the turkey carcass and chew on the small bones? A: In a word: No. Veterinary emergency clinics see way too many dogs and cats after holiday feasts. Don’t make your pets…