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Pet Owner's Guide to Reading Pet Food Labels
4 min read
Hi, Max here sharing my favorite tips, tricks, guides, and more. Don't see what you're looking for? Ask Dr. Jenn!
October 27, 2025
Discover the most common pet bird diseases and get practical tips on how to prevent them. With the right knowledge and care, bird owners can help their feathered companions live long, healthy lives.
4 min read
Read More Common Avian Illnesses and How to Prevent Them
October 27, 2025
Cats communicate in many ways -- and you can communicate back. Check out this guide to feline communication.
4 min read
Read More Cat Communication: A Guide for Humans
October 27, 2025
Get tips on what to look for in a dog trainer, from training methods to credentials and communication styles. The right dog trainer can help build a strong bond and achieve lasting results with your pup.
4 min read
Read More What to Look for in a Dog Trainer
October 23, 2025
I've heard chocolate is bad for dogs, but I've known dogs who have eaten it and been fine. How much chocolate is toxic for a dog?
4 min read
Read More Ask Dr. Jenn: Why is Chocolate Toxic for Dogs?
October 10, 2025
Smart dog collars offer high-tech features to help you maintain your dog's well being. Check out these popular options.
4 min read
Read More Need a Smart Dog Collar? Consider These Smart Choices
October 9, 2025
Explore the top 10 healthy treats for pet birds, from fresh fruits and vegetables to homemade snacks.
4 min read
Read More Top 10 Healthy Treats for Pet Birds
Jennifer Shepherd received her doctorate of veterinary medicine from Colorado State University in 2000. She completed a small animal medicine and surgery internship at the Ontario Veterinary College before entering private practice. Dr. Shepherd owns Cloquet Animal Hospital in Northern Minnesota where she practices full time.
In her free time she enjoys writing, photography, running and spending time with her husband, three children, two dogs, and one spoiled cat. She is pictured here with her best running dog Apollo, a Portuguese Water Dog who can’t swim but loves playing in snow.
IMPORTANT : If your pet is ill or experiencing a medical emergency, please contact your local veterinarian. Dr. Jenn is not able to answer questions immediately and her answers are more general so that other readers may benefit as well. She is not meant to take the place of your pet’s veterinarian.
October 23, 2025
I've heard chocolate is bad for dogs, but I've known dogs who have eaten it and been fine. How much chocolate is toxic for a dog?
4 min read
Read More Ask Dr. Jenn: Why is Chocolate Toxic for Dogs?
September 26, 2025
I've noticed my cat scratching and biting his skin a lot more than normal. Does he have fleas, or is there another cause?
3 min read
Read More Ask Dr. Jenn: Why is My Cat Scratching So Much?
September 3, 2025
I heard that you could determine a pet’s age by its teeth. Is that true?
5 min read
Read More Ask Dr. Jenn: Can My Pet's Teeth Tell Me Their Age?
October 9, 2025
Learn how to make those autumn hikes with your dog as safe as possible.
4 min read
Read More Safety Tips for Hiking with Your Dog This Fall
September 26, 2025
I've noticed my cat scratching and biting his skin a lot more than normal. Does he have fleas, or is there another cause?
3 min read
Read More Ask Dr. Jenn: Why is My Cat Scratching So Much?
September 24, 2025
Horse blankets are commonly used during cold and rainy weather. Choosing the right horse blanket is dependent on many factors, such as the animal’s size, hair coat, and environment.
4 min read
Read More How to Choose the Right Blanket for Your Horse