Recent Kinship articles by Dr. Shea Cox, DVM, CVPP, CHPV

And when to be concerned.

A vet on what to do when “anal sacs go bad.”

You already do a great job as your pup’s parent — but here are some shiny new goals for keeping them happy and healthy in 2025.

It’s no laughing matter. Try these at-home treatments—and if they don’t work, take your dog to the vet ASAP.

From home treatments to holistic methods—and when to call a vet.

Some plants are not so merry.

Don’t panic: It’s called reverse sneezing, and in most cases, it’s nothing to worry about.

Senior dogs can get a condition called idiopathic “old dog” vestibular disease. Here's everything you need to know.

Find out if this complementary and alternative medicine is right for your pup.

Temperatures are rising dangerously. Keep your pet safe with these tips.

From how to get the stinger out at home to when it’s time to go to the ER.

Found a tick on your dog? A veterinarian breaks down everything you need to know. 

5 tips to help your pup have fun in the sun — safely.

It’s the unofficial start of summer, and you don’t want to spend it at the emergency vet.

It looks cute, but this plant is incredibly deadly to dogs. Here’s everything you need to know.

If you think your dog ate marijuana, here are the signs to look out for.

Learn about the causes and what to do for a choking pet.

Don’t freak out—here’s what to do.

Expert solutions for your pup’s unfortunate flatulence.

From bloody poop to diarrhea—all your dog’s poop problems explained.

Certain symptoms could mean your dog is battling a potentially fatal condition called hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE). Here’s everything you need to know.

With all the festivities (and eating!) afoot, it’s extra important to know how to prevent the disease.

Scarier than Halloween Kills.

Veterinarian Dr. Shea Cox separates fact from fiction when it comes to low-shedding breeds.

If your dog drinks from puddles or splashes around in lakes, read this.

A vet explains when you can treat the injury at home — and when it’s best to seek professional help.

Here’s how to spot the eye condition and help your dog see more clearly.

Late spring is prime time for these blades of grass that pose a serious risk to your pup.

You can do a DIY exam on your dog from your couch.

Keep your pup’s weight down, and you could add years to their life. What’s better than that?

It might be a sign of a bigger issue.

Veterinarian Dr. Shea Cox on how to get comfortable checking your dog’s breathing, respiratory rate, and skin hydration.

It may protect your plants, but at what cost? A veterinarian explains how this toxin may keep your garden safe — but it’s extremely toxic to dogs. Here’s everything you need to know.

If your senior dog seems confused, restless, or irritable after dark, they may have sundowners syndrome. Here’s how to deal.

Don’t make this dangerous mistake when picking out flea prevention products.

Veterinarian Dr. Shea Cox on how to assess your dog’s eyes, ears, nose, and mouth.

Veterinarian Dr. Shea Cox on how to properly examine your dog’s stomach and musculoskeletal system.

Veterinarian Dr. Shea Cox on how to take your dog’s temperature, find their pulse, and check their heart rate.

Hyperadrenocorticism can be dangerous. Find out how to spot and treat it.

Yes, dogs can get tetanus too — and not just from rusty nails. 

Dr. Shea Cox warns pet parents about the unexpected dangers of dog bones.

The goo in that green-and-orange bottle can cause serious harm — get your dog to the vet ASAP.

It might sound obvious, but these rodenticides are harmful to pups.

Veterinary hospice and palliative care expert Dr. Shea Cox, DVM, on an alternative to euthanasia.

Swallowing a penny comes at a high price for dogs.

The deadly disease is most common in autumn and late summer. Find out how to keep your pup safe.

Lay the groundwork for quick, low-stress treatment.

Step one: Get your pup to the vet ASAP.

From (human) prescription meds to poinsettia plants, these "toxic" items may not be so bad for your pup.

Active yeast puts dogs at risk for obstruction and alcohol poisoning.

Hint: Those “grass-saving” supplements for dogs don’t work — and may even harm your pup.

Chasing their tails, eating grass, and rolling in garbage — should you worry?

Can your dog give the gift of life?

If you’re home brewing beer, beware of this highly toxic bitter plant.