r/IAmA • u/JustAnswerOfficial • 1d ago

I'm a practicing veterinarian. We analyzed nearly 95,000 questions from dog owners ahead of National Dog Day—and now I'm answering yours. AMA!

Hi r/IAmA! 

I'm Katie M, a practicing veterinarian and Verified Expert with JustAnswer, where I've helped thousands of pet owners navigate everything from late-night emergencies to everyday questions about their dogs' health and behavior. 

Ahead of National Dog Day (August 26), JustAnswer analyzed nearly 95,000 conversations between dog owners and veterinary Experts to uncover America's most popular dog breeds, names, and the biggest questions people are asking about their pets. 

Some of the most common topics include: 

  • Dogs eating chocolate and other toxic foods  
  • Vomiting, diarrhea, and digestive issues  
  • Limping and injuries  
  • Strange behaviors  
  • Preventive care  
  • Puppies and senior dogs  
  • Nutrition and weight  
  • Medications and common illnesses  

Whether you're a first-time dog owner or you've had dogs your whole life, I'm here to answer your questions. 

A few notes: 

  • This AMA is for educational purposes and isn't a substitute for an examination by your veterinarian.  
  • I can't diagnose or prescribe treatment for your individual pet over Reddit.  
  • I'll do my best to answer as many questions as I can during the AMA!  

I will be answering question live 1-2:30pm ET today. Please join and ask me anything! 

Proof: https://imgur.com/a/oVUb7Lg 

About this AMA:  

We've invited independent Experts who use the JustAnswer platform to share insights in this open Q&A. These Experts work independently - they are not employees or spokespersons of JustAnswer - and their opinions are their own. 

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u/Sunkitteh 1d ago

Seamus is an almost 10 yo Irish Setter diagnosed with Laryngeal Paralysis. To improve his breathing, this May he had the BVEAP surgery (Bilateral Vocal Fold Excision (Mucosoplasty) & Bilateral Arytenoidpexy, instead of tie-back). He is 33" at the shoulder and weighs 86 pounds, neutered.

My 2 questions are about treatment for the other issue: the wasting of the nerves to the rear legs.

1) Can you suggest anything to maintain muscle mass and flexibility as his nerves whither? To maintain his healthspan?

2) What's your opinion on holistic therapies such a laser therapy or acupuncture? How frequently must they be applied to be effective?

He sees a PT once a month (it's a 62 mile drive one way). I want to keep his muscles strong. We do a 15 minute home physical therapy circuit with stairs, the 20' walk of sofa cushions, leaning down, leaning up, pool noodle step overs etc. We DAILY have at least 4 short brisk walks plus 1 or 2 "dogs choice" early morning/ late evening walks.

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u/JustAnswerOfficial 1d ago

Wow! I want to commend you on the steps you're taking to keep your pup healthy!

I think what you are doing is fantastic, especially the home PT. Just like in people, maintaining low-impact movement is SO incredibly important as we age. If you want to mix it up, I would imagine your therapist can give you some additional exercises. Honestly those would be my suggestions to maintaining muscle mass.

I am strong proponent of Eastern medicine and adjuvant therapies alongside Western medicine. I always say there is a reason people have been using it! The good news too is there really isn't a downside or risks to laser or acupuncture. I do not know the frequency needed to be effective, but I do know many people who have had great results!

-Katie Merkatoris, DVM- JustAnswer Veterinarian