Recent Kinship articles by Dr. Bartley Harrison, DVM

Other than using them to tickle you, of course.

And why you might need to.

A vet explains why the weather isn’t always to blame.

It’s weird and concerning for any pup parent. Here’s why your dog may be doing this.

The answer is no, no, no — and here’s why.

If your dog always seems hungry and is acting abnormally, there could be a problem.

Don’t panic, but definitely talk to your vet if you’re worried about any of these conditions.

And when to be concerned.

Learn what the benefits are.

Thankfully, there are ways to help them.

You may not want to, but you should...

Here’s how to spot and treat these very contagious critters that target your dog’s ear canals.

Understand the risks.

The list is long, but you can do it!

Shoo, fly!

Recognizing the signs of ear problems early can help to identify issues before they get out of control.

Learn what else might affect this issue.

They really want that cheese...

Cool, cool, cool (heavy sarcasm here). These are some steps you can take.

And what to do about it.

There are some safety concerns you need to know.

Nature is nice. Itching? Not so much.

What’s goin’ on there, pal?

They may not be the biggest fans sometimes, but that’s different.

They sound so sad...

They aren’t fun, but you can’t leave them alone.

Is that normal?

There are a few possible reasons for your pup’s murky stare.

You won’t like the answer, but thankfully there’s a solution.

Seems like an emergency. Is it?

Yes, they are right behind you.

They sure do like sniffing around those bouquets...

Ick. It won’t be fun, but here’s how to get the job done.

Sure, it’s curious—but is it also concerning?

Hopefully, they at least fare better than we do when the lights go out.

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

They notice more than you think.

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

Seeing your pup’s normally perky tail go limp can be unnerving, but it’s really nothing to panic about.

It’s not a pretty problem, but here are your solutions.

Yes, dogs can see muted colors.

It’s not all black and white.

Signs to look out for.

Keep it plain. Here’s why.

What you need to know about this super contagious disease. (Hint: There’s a vaccine.)

Everything you need to know about this super contagious disease. (Hint: There’s a vaccine.)

You can stop your home from becoming a literal flea circus.

No one wants to find them, but here’s what to look out for.

When to call the vet.

They seem awfully interested in meal prep.

There’s a reason that high-pitched noise can wake them out of a deep sleep.

The math isn’t as cut and dry as you’d think.

Or is it OK to snuggle them close while we recover?

That doesn’t seem normal...

Your miserable kitty would like to know, too.

Know what to look for at every stage.

Because you have to go places sometimes.

Learn the benefits of doing so ASAP.

And why it’s so important to keep them hydrated.

Blue is a good name for a dog—not a good mood.

It may not be anything serious, but you should understand the causes.

They do like to use those chompers, but is this a safe alternative to your fingers?

Plus, other alternatives that might be better.

When you’re a cat parent, your sweaters always feature at least some kitty hair.

If you receive this flower in a bouquet, keep it away from your cat.

The hair is everywhere.

And what to look for if you think your pup has them.

As hiking season continues, keep this bookmarked.

By any other name, it would smell as sweet. But what if your dog nibbles some?

Not that you want to be away from them anyway.

How to look out for the signs your pup is feeling stuffed up.

Because they’re probably not going to tell you why they just scratched the heck out of the couch.

Bite-size pieces of ripe, red tomatoes are safe—but you should skip the marinara sauce.

Ticks (literally) suck. Keep an eye out for them on your pup.

Uh, ew. But also: Here‘s what you should look out for.

Much to their disappointment, taking care of your cat’s teeth is essential.

The answer isn’t fun, but you can prevent this.

They might want to hurry up and be a big kid, but here’s why it’s good to wait.

And alternatives you can use instead.

These little guys actually serve a huge role on your dog’s body.

It only makes them cuter, but you may need to address the cause for this condition.

And the risks you need to know.

No, you should not give your dog over-the-counter pain medication for humans.

It’s good to know ahead of all the summer fun you’re gonna have together.

Oof, that is bad.

These flowers are cheerful, but you need to keep them far away from your kitty.

Yes, and here’s why you shouldn’t pick at them, even if you want to.

And what you should expect after they receive it.

They might still be your baby, but here’s why they need to eat like a grown-up.

Yes, but thankfully nothing like you do after a CrossFit workout.

It’s worth asking, especially ahead of all those hikes you’ll take together this summer.

No, no, no. Absolutely not. Here’s why.

Just some things to keep an...eye on.

Other than to completely freak you out.

Asparagus is a healthy snack for pups, but keep these tips in mind.

Why you should talk to your vet first.

The short answer is no. Here’s why.

In addition to being adorable, it’s nothing to worry about.

You call them toe beans. Your vet uses more technical terms. Whatever they’re called, take care of them.

Heed all those cautionary tales about Q-tips.

Look out for these warnings signs so you know when to call the vet.

There’s a lot more to your pup’s furry appendages than you might think.

It’s an alarming sight, but here’s what you should know.

And what to do to help them.

Sharing isn’t always caring. Keep your cat safe by keeping these human snack staples to yourself.

A few kernels won’t hurt, but think twice before doling out a bowl of the stuff.

If your teeth are chattering, theirs probably are, too.

Their snout is like a leaky faucet. Should you be worried?

We’re all sniffling this time of year. Learn if your pup can get a cold, too.

Hopefully this isn’t info you’ll have to reference often, but here’s what you should know.

The pandemic started nearly four years ago. Here’s what we know about dogs and COVID now.

They’re not exactly blowing their noses and rubbing Vicks on their chests, but here’s what you need to know.

These are the signs of pregnancy in cats.

Seven reasons to be concerned when your dog is coughing.

As your pup ages, here’s how to spot arthritis and stay ahead of it.

Those glowing orbs are actually a pretty useful result of evolution.

Find out whether you can get that elaborate flower arrangement—or if you should skip it.

Yes, Oranges are a Nutritious Treat for Dogs

There’s a reason that sweet little nose is always pressed to the ground.

Pet parents, watch out for a common — but deadly — plant.

It doesn’t just affect humans. Thankfully, this kind of wound infection is uncommon, but here’s what to look out for.

Let’s debunk some things right now for new pet parents with questions.

This is one of those “no, but also yes” answers. Read on.

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

If your pup’s bathroom habits have changed, they might have a UTI. Here’s how to help.

Find out what causes lymphoma in dogs and how you can help your pup.

If you’re bracing yourself for some wackiness, don’t worry — it won’t last forever.

No, you should not use Neosporin on your dog’s wounds.

You may have heard other pup parents praising this supplement. Here’s what a vet has to say.

Itchy and definitely not fun — here’s what to look out for.

Cats’ eyes are strikingly beautiful, but goopy, irritated eyes are not.

Your older dog is the love of your life. Here are some health issues to look out for.

There is one way to make sure your cat stays safe: vaccinate, vaccinate, vaccinate.

How to spot, diagnose, and treat these lesions — cancerous or non-cancerous.