Vera Lawlor
Former Contributor
Author/Co-Author of 145 articles
Vera was the pet columnist for 201 Family magazine and has contributed pet and animal welfare articles to Bone-A-Fide Mutts and The Animal Companion magazines and online at Care2.com and The Traveling Leash.com. When she isn’t writing about animals, Vera loves to go on long hikes with her American foxhound, Bella.
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Why dogs lick their paws: When to worry about excessive licking
If your dog is constantly and frantically licking their paws, there may be cause for concern. Here are some reasons to look into and when to call the vet.
Why is my dog whining? 6 reasons and how to stop it
It may seem like your dog is whining for no good reason, but that’s not usually the case. To make it stop, you have to figure out what they're telling you.
How much should newborn puppies eat? Follow this feeding guide
Follow these guidelines and the newborn puppy feeding chart to figure out how much food your puppy should eat at each meal.
Beagle 101: Key things to know before getting one as a pet
Beagles conjure up images of a pack of hounds out on a hunt, or a hiking companion. Here's everything you need to know about the Beagle dog breed.
Cat acting oddly? 4 signs your cat has diabetes
If your cat has any of these signs, they might have feline diabetes.
How to find the shelter dog that fits your lifestyle
We've got the tips and tricks you need for finding a dog at a shelter.
The sweet, simple reason why dogs like belly rubs so much
If you've ever wondered why dogs like belly rubs, the reason is so simple.
8 autumn Instagram pet photographs that will get you excited for the gorgeous season ahead
Autumn has arrived on Instagram. These autumn Instagram cats and dog photos are sweeter than a PSL and could inspire a fall photoshoot of your own.
Learn how to stop a dog from digging in the yard once and for all
Dogs dig for a variety of reasons. These tips will help you figure out why your dog is digging, and how you can prevent your pup from digging in the future.
8 effective ways to help your obese dog lose weight
It’s essential to control your dog's weight, so you can save them from health conditions. Here's how you can help them trim down.
Why do dogs eat dirt? There may be a huge health issue, experts say
If your dog eats dirt, there might be something serious going on. We'll help you figure out why your pup engages in this strange behavior.
These are the best (and worst) cities for cat lovers
Do you live in one of the best cities for cat lovers? We've got the list.
Dog road trip essentials: These 5 items just might save your travel plans
Don't leave home without these five essential items for your next vacation with your dog.
How to find the right veterinarian for your pet
Finding the pet doctor takes time and patience. Here's what you need to consider before choosing a veterinarian.
8 Christmas dog collars to adorn your pooch in the spirit of the season
These are the best Christmas dog collars under $20.
The best dog Christmas sweaters (from ugly to classy) under $30
These are the best dog Christmas sweaters under $30
What are the best high-fiber dog foods? Here’s what the reviews say
This is the best high-fiber dog food under $65 for your pet.
When do puppies stop biting? That might be up to their owner
Biting is a normal, albeit annoying, part of being a puppy. This is when puppies finally stop biting everything in sight.
These national parks are stunning in the fall – and allow your dog to visit, too
These national parks are incredible in the fall, and your dog will love them, too. Check out the four best parks to visit with Fido.
How to help cats inside car engines … before it’s too late
Have you heard of cats climbing into parked car engines then hitching a ride? This does happen. Here's how to prevent it.
Is your dog barking nonstop? Here’s how to get your noisy pup under control
Sometimes our pups bark for seemingly no reason and won't stop. Here are ways to get your noisy dog under control (and the reasons behind it).
4 effective ways to house-train your stubborn little Chihuahua
Chihuahuas can be a stubborn and sensitive breed, so helping them learn where to potty can be a challenge. Here's how to house-train Chihuahua puppies.
Why doesn’t my dog like toys? Disinterest might mean something really bad
What to do (and what it means) if your dog doesn't seem interested in toys.
Therapy dogs spread love wherever they go: Does your dog qualify?
Therapy dogs spread love and comfort in hospitals, nursing homes, and more. If your dog is outgoing and loving read on to learn how to get them certified.
The pros and cons of parenting a Frenchie if you wonder ‘are French bulldogs good pets?’
There are pros and cons of owning a French bulldog as a family pet, so make sure to do your research before adding a new member to your household.
Pets are victims of domestic violence, too: 5 things you can do to help
Pets are often injured or killed in violent homes. Learn what you can do to help victims escape to safety with their pets.
Dogs on Halloween: Pro tips to keep them stress-free and happy so you can enjoy the day together
Life can be stressful for dogs on Halloween. The costumes, noises, and steady stream of unfamiliar faces can take a toll. Here's how to keep yours stress-free.
5 fantastic ways pets in a classroom benefit kids (and the best pets to get)
Studies show that classroom pets provide important benefits for students. Find out which animals make the best classroom pets.
How to stop puppy biting: Tips you need to nix this annoying habit
Need to know how to stop a puppy from biting? These tips are absolutely fantastic.
How to take care of a dog in heat: A handy guide for all pet parents
Not sure how to handle your dog's heat cycle? This is what you should know.
8 adorable and practical dog bandanas that will make a statement
These 8 dog bandanas are both cute and practical...and some even keep pests away.
Is a Pomsky a good family dog? What you need to know about this pint-sized mixed breed
If you're considering a Pomsky for your family dog, read this first. Here's what to know about this adorable mixed breed.
Avoid tears and upset: How to pick the right animal for your kid’s first pet
How to pick out the best first pet for your kid. Which animal is best for children?
Outdoor dangers for dogs: 5 seemingly safe things that can harm your furry friend
Outdoor dangers can be hard to spot for your dog. Here's what you need to be wary of.
How to teach your dog to paddleboard with you (and get Instagram-famous)
Who doesn't love a good dog Insta account? Teach your dog to paddleboard with you and gain followers.
Everything you need to know about equine therapy
Equine therapy is a growing type of therapy for individuals with special needs. We have vetted the best.
Can your pet clear customs? How to ensure your trip doesn’t start in disaster
If you're thinking of traveling abroad, do your research first and know what documents your pet needs.
Are we there yet? Don’t leave home without this one road trip essential for dogs
Do this one thing to keep your dog calm on your next road trip.
Why a working farm stay should be your vacation of choice this summer
Working farm stays allow vacation-goers to get a taste of farm life. Is it for you?
Do dogs actually benefit from CBD treats? This is what the experts say
Dog CBD treats are all the rage. But do they actually work? We asked experts.
Is rawhide bad for dogs? Why you have to get rid of their favorite treat
What you need to know if you're still offering your dog rawhide treats.
A new survey identifies 6 main dog personality types: What kind is your pooch?
You already know your pet has a personality, and this survey confirms it.
Why your teenager needs a dog (and it’s not just to teach responsibility)
How pet care can teach your teen responsibility, kindness, and unconditional love.
How to raise a pit bull to be friendly with other dogs
Pit bulls have a bad reputation, but you can train them to be friendly with other dogs.
4 wee-wee pad training mistakes to avoid with your puppy
Avoid potty training messes. Don't make these mistakes.
How to potty train an older dog who’s set in their ways
Tips for potty training an adult dog who is difficult to train.
Yes, there are passports for dogs, and Fido needs one STAT
Here's what you need to know about passports for your pets if you move abroad.
Skip the Roundup and use these pet-safe yard care products this spring
These yard care products are safe to use around pets, if you have dogs or cats who spend time in the yard.
French bulldog training is easy with these great treats (they’re healthy, too)
What you need to know to train your French Bulldog before he trains you.
Rottweiler puppies will eat you out of house and home without these tips
What food should I feed my Rottweiler puppy? What to avoid?