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Rika Silva, MSc

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Rita has a Master's degree in Biomedical Sciences and has worked in many different research laboratories. As a long-time dog owner, she's been trying to apply her skills, expertise and experience in the scientific field to writing about dogs and providing science-based information for other dog owners.

Hemangiosarcoma in Dogs: Everything You Must Know

Not something many pet owners know about, but if you've just heard about hemangiosarcoma in dogs, your dog may have been diagnosed with a...

11 Most Dangerous Viruses in Dogs

The most dangerous causative agents carried by viruses do not always cause the most common diseases in dogs. However, once such an infection occurs,...

4 Facts About Coronavirus All Dog Owners Must Know

Coronavirus, or Covid-19, is spreading across the world rapidly, causing lockdowns in most countries and forcing governments to take preventive measures meant to “flatten...

Small Dogs Lie About Their Size, Study Says (and 5 More...

There's new research showing that dogs, our most trusted companion, apparently tend to lie to other dogs and are very capable of deception. A...

Dog DNA Tests Not Always Accurate for Pet Health Decisions, Scientists...

Genetic testing has become a valuable tool in the health industry for humans but it's still in its infancy stages for testing dogs. There is...

Weed Killer Herbicide Glyphosate Found in Pet Foods

A herbicide Glyphosate, developed and used on farms, gardens and yards in the U.S. since 1974 is apparently included in some other products as...

Sled Dogs in Greenland are Becoming Extinct, Report Says

The sled dog culture in Greenland is unique but the last two decades sadly saw its population decrease, new study says. Here's what is...

What Do Dogs Dream About?

You have probably wondered if your dog dreams when he sleeps and what do dogs dream about in general, especially if you ever saw...

How Dog Food and Water Bowls are Making Pets Sick

New data shows that your dog's water bowl might be filled with germs that may negatively impact your pup's health. The first thing we purchase...

Study: New Blood Test Makes It Easier to Detect Liver Disease...

The simple blood test that vets developed may soon make detection of liver disease in dogs easier and more specific. Dog liver disease has long...

Pets Remember Things Better Than You Think, Studies Show

Experts keep doing studies on the memory of dogs and cats for one very important reason that could benefit humans. Do pets have long-term memories?...

Why Are Dogs More Prone to Bite Nervous People?

Apparently, your stressful demeanor around dogs can increase the risks of dog bites, experts say. Can dogs smell fear in humans? You might have been...

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New Canine Respiratory Illness Spreading Across US; Experts Advise ‘Caution Rather...

Years after the COVID-19 pandemic, there's a new viral disease in town spreading around the US... but this time, it's affecting dogs. More than 200...

13 Best Gifts for Veterinarians For Holidays or Any Day! (Updated...

A veterinarian is absolutely important for our pet’s health and well-being. And not to mention our own peace of mind as well when our...
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Dog Anal Glands Problems: Signs, Causes, and Treatment

W hile dog anal gland problems are usually not life-threatening, they are relatively common, except for anal gland cancer. Sadly, when untreated, they can affect your...
How To Make Homemade Flea Spray for Dogs

How to Make Homemade Flea Spray for Dogs (3 DIY Flea...

Learning how to make homemade flea spray for dogs will save you money and reduce your pet's exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins. Here's 3 best recipes.

15 Velcro Dog Breeds and 4 Simple Tips to Lessen Their...

Picture this: You are trying to sneak into the kitchen for some midnight snack without waking anyone up. Suddenly, you felt a pair of eyes...
Cyrus, Lucky, and Deuce | Image courtesy: Domenick Scudera via Daily Paws

2-Legged Therapy Dogs Help Inspire Amputee Patients in Rehab Hospital

MALVERN, PHILADELPHIA—Cyrus, Lucky, and Deuce are dogs on a mission: inspire the patients of Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital in Philadelphia to get back on...
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Can Dogs Eat Duck? 6 Awesome Benefits of Duck for Dogs

If you’re a long-time dog owner, maybe this question has run through your mind... “Can dogs eat duck?” Has your dog recently begged for a...
can dogs eat spicy food - dog smelling chili pepper in a pot

Can Dogs Eat Spicy Food? Things to Expect and 5 Simple...

Some humans enjoy the sensation when eating spicy stuff, but some can’t even stand the heat.  If you’re a fan of spicy food, you have...
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How Many Teeth Do Dogs Have? A Closer Look At Their...

You might have thought about this question while brushing your dog's teeth. “How many teeth do dogs have?” Do dogs have the same number of...
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Why Do Dogs Roll in the Grass? Here’s 5 Surprising Reasons...

You might notice your dog's appreciation of grass when you walk outdoors.  So, if you are wondering, "Why do dogs roll in the grass?" there...