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.
July 1, 2025
I've seen a lot of mushrooms growing in my yard lately where my dog likes to play. Are mushrooms bad for dogs? Should I be worried if he eats one of them?
3 min read
Read More Ask Dr. Jenn: Are Wild Mushrooms Dangerous for My Dog?
May 22, 2025
My dog is having watery diarrhea. I tried the boiled chicken and rice approach, and he is still having issues. Could the diarrhea be caused by an allergy to chicken, which is his main source of daily food?
3 min read
Read More Ask Dr. Jenn: What Is Causing My Dog's Diarrhea?
April 11, 2025
The news keeps reporting stories of rising egg costs due to the Bird Flu. What can you tell me about it? Should I be worried about getting sick?
3 min read
Read More Ask Dr. Jenn: What is the Bird Flu? Should I Be Worried?
March 20, 2025
What do I need to know before getting a pet sugar glider? My daughter asked for one for her birthday and they look very cute!
4 min read
Read More Ask Dr. Jenn: Can I Keep a Sugar Glider as a Pet?
February 18, 2025
I suspect my dog is deaf. Is there any way for me to be sure? Are there any tests my veterinarian can do?
3 min read
Read More Ask Dr. Jenn: How Can I Tell if My Dog is Deaf?
January 24, 2025
One of my cats keeps peeing in random places around my house. I have tried changing the litter, using a calming collar, and I keep both litter boxes clean. Any advice I should try?
3 min read
Read More Ask Dr. Jenn: How Can I Stop My Cat from Peeing Outside the Litter Box?
December 17, 2024
At Christmas time, I see images of polar bears and penguins sharing drinks and presents and playing together. But I thought penguins lived at the South Pole. What animals live in Santa’s backyard?
3 min read
Read More Ask Dr. Jenn: Do Penguins Live at the North Pole?
November 19, 2024
Our dog Rocco, age 16 1/2, was diagnosed with oral melanoma. Would you subject him to local radiation treatment at his age, which is the suggested care, or use other modalities?
3 min read
Read More Ask Dr. Jenn: Should We Use Radiation for Our Older Dog Who Has Cancer?
November 1, 2024
My 12-year-old Staffie male dog has started peeing in the house and in his sleep. He's moans in pain, but I don't know why. How can I help?
3 min read
Read More Ask Dr. Jenn: My Dog is Having Urinary Problems. How Can I Tell What's Wrong?
September 26, 2024
I've noticed that my red-eared aquatic turtle is starting to lose her large underbody scales. What does this mean and how can I help?
4 min read
Read More Ask Dr. Jenn: Why is My Red Eared Slider Turtle Losing Scales?