Author Archives: skeptvet

Andrew Jones Redux- Why is he talking so much about SkeptVet?

I have written about Dr. Andrew Jones several times in the past (2010, 2011,2014), though as you can see, I moved on from this topic quite some time ago. The bottom line is that he built his veterinary career around denigrating … Continue reading →

Posted in General | 3 Comments

Supplements for Sarcopenia: Do they work to build muscle mass and strength?

One of the most common and important problem that diminishes quality of life in dogs and cats as they age is sarcopenia, the loss of muscle mass and strength. This can also occur as a result of other causes, such … Continue reading →

Posted in Herbs and Supplements | 2 Comments

Should we have a Recognized Specialty in Veterinary Palliative and Hospice Care?

From both my twenty-five years of clinical practice as a general practice vet, and also my work studying aging in dogs, I have developed a particular interest in the care of senior pets. One important aspect of this care is … Continue reading →

Posted in General, Science-Based Veterinary Medicine | 9 Comments

Purina Institute Global Summit 2026

I was privileged to be asked to speak at this event on the subject of using biomarkers to support a more proactive, preventative approach to pet health. Below you can find the recording of this session as well as the … Continue reading →

Posted in General, Presentations, Lectures, Publications & Interviews | Leave a comment

Royal Canin Vet Symposium 2026: My Talks on Healthy Aging in Pets

I gave the opening plenary at this conference on the subject of Healthy aging, and also did a deep dive into potential measures of biological age. Enjoy!

Posted in Aging Science, Presentations, Lectures, Publications & Interviews | Leave a comment

What’s in a Name? Is Expertise Even Real in a World of Toothiologists?

“Nutritionist” isn’t a protected term. Anyone can call themselves a nutritionist. “Dietician” is the legally protected term. “Dietician” is like “dentist”, and “nutritionist” is like “tooth-i-ologist.” Dara O’Biain In one of the most insightful and frighteningly prescient books I’ve read, The Death … Continue reading →

Posted in General, Nutrition | 6 Comments

Evidence Update- Cranberry for UTI

Several times in the past, I have written about he potential usefulness of cranberry extract in various forms for treating or preventing urinary tract infections (UTI) in dogs and cats. The last time I covered the subject was way back … Continue reading →

Posted in Herbs and Supplements | Leave a comment

Acupuncture at GV20 (Bai-Hui) for Sedation

I was recently asked about a specific acupuncture technique which pops up from time to time– needling or injecting medications at the location known as GV20 for calming or sedating effects. It is always problematic to evaluate specific claims in … Continue reading →

Posted in Acupuncture | 2 Comments

Is Alternative Medicine Compatible with Science?

Why ask the question?The question implies a conflict, a potential incompatibility. If this doesn’t actually exist, then the subject is moot and we can all go home early.  Proponents of complementary and alternative veterinary medicine (CAVM- also labeled “holistic,” “integrative,” … Continue reading →

Posted in Presentations, Lectures, Publications & Interviews, Science-Based Veterinary Medicine | 2 Comments

What is Evidence-based Medicine, and Why does it Matter?

I am preparing a series of lectures for an upcoming conference, and it has given me a chance to reflect on some of the core ideas that have always driven this blog– the challenges created by our human limitations and … Continue reading →

Posted in Presentations, Lectures, Publications & Interviews, Science-Based Veterinary Medicine | 2 Comments