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Dr. Sharon Butzke

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About

Sharon has been drawn to animals for as long as she can remember. She was raised in Ontario, Canada and fulfilled her childhood dream when she obtained her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2009. Since then, she has worked in a variety of small animal clinics, with a focus on cats and dogs. She loves sharing her knowledge and empowering people to take the best possible care of their pets! Sharon currently resides in British Columbia with her husband, daughter, and a loveable Great Dane named Parker. 

Archive

Dog Cavities: Signs, Causes, Diagnosis & Care (Vet Answer)

It is probably not hard to recall the last time you brushed your teeth, but how about your pup’s pearly whites? Dental disease is incredibly common, affecting more than 80% of adult dogs1. However, cavities are pretty rare. The dogs’...

close up of a dog's mouth showing cavity, gingivitis, and tooth decay

My Dog Ate Aquaphor: Should I Be Worried? Our Vet Explains

Dogs never fail to surprise us with the random things they eat, like moisturizing cream, for example. What could possibly be appealing about that? If your curious pup has helped themself to a taste of Aquaphor, the good news is...

My Dog Ate Aquaphor

My Dog Ate a Squirrel: Should I Be Worried? Our Vet Explains

If you have just witnessed your dog eating all or part of a squirrel, your initial reaction could fall anywhere along the spectrum from horror and disgust to, “What’s the harm in that?” Coyotes and wolves probably eat squirrels all...

Border Collie Hip Dysplasia: Our Vet Explains the Signs, Causes, Care & FAQ

Border Collies are bred to be active! Their intelligence, athleticism, and herding instincts make them incredible working dogs, but they can also be great family pets (as long as you can match their energy!). They might not be the first...

Short Haired Border Collie

Can Dogs Be Allergic to Pollen? Our Vet Explains

Can dogs have pollen allergies? Yes, they absolutely can! Just like people, dogs can react to pollen from trees, grass, and weeds. We may not always recognize the signs right away, however, because their symptoms are often quite different from...

pollen

How to Comfort a Dog With Pancreatitis: 5 Vet Approved Recommendations

If your pup has been diagnosed with pancreatitis, they are probably feeling pretty yucky. Naturally, you want to do everything you can to help them! It is important to remember that pancreatitis is a condition that requires medical treatment. Affected...

woman touching dog's stomach on couch

Why Does a French Bulldog Get Skin Lumps? Our Vet Explains

French Bulldogs are adored around the world for their cute little faces and playful personalities. They make wonderful companions and have become increasingly popular family pets. In fact, in 2022, they earned the number one spot on the American Kennel...

french bulldog

10 Benefits of Colostrum for Dogs: Our Vet Answers

Colostrum is the first milk produced by pregnant mammals, starting a few weeks before they give birth and continuing for a few days afterward. It is often referred to as “liquid gold” because of its yellow color and amazing health...

Jack Russell Terrier dog feeding her puppies

What Are the Dangers of Using Rock Salt Around Pets? (Vet Answer)

If you live somewhere that experiences winter, you are likely familiar with the challenges of keeping driveways, sidewalks, and steps free of ice. There are many different products available to help melt ice and provide traction, but some of them...

spoon of pink himalayan rock salt on wooden table

Are There Benefits of Vitamin C for Dogs? Our Vet Answers

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an important antioxidant that is known to offer a variety of health benefits for people. It is a common ingredient in multivitamins, and a supplement many of us reach for during cold...

vitamin c tablets on a vintage background as detailed close up shot

Pancreatic Cancer in Dogs: Signs, Causes & Care (Vet Answer)

Anyone who has watched a friend or family member face pancreatic cancer understands the fear associated with this diagnosis. Unfortunately, dogs can also get pancreatic cancer, and similarly to people, it does not usually have a good prognosis. Thankfully, it...

vet examining a sick German Shepherd dog

Is Breed Specific Dog Food Necessary? Our Vet Explains the 4 Considerations

When you walk into a pet store, the vast array of food options can feel intimidating for new and experienced dog owners alike. While it is great to have choices, it can be hard to know what food is best...

Hunting dog eating

Dog Stomach Ulcers: Our Vet Explains the Signs, Causes & Care

Stomach (gastric) ulcers in dogs occur when the protective lining of the stomach, known as the mucosal barrier, becomes damaged. The purpose of the mucosal barrier is to protect the lining of the stomach from its acidic contents. Anything that...

german shorthaired pointer dog check by vet

Ataxia in Dogs: Types, Causes, Signs & Treatment (Vet Answer)

Ataxia is a sign of a medical condition rather than a disease itself, and it can be defined as general incoordination.1 At first glance, ataxia can look like muscle weakness. However, the problem lies within the sensory nervous system. Motor...

tired New Zealand Heading Dog

Dogs Snorting: Causes & Concerns Explained (Vet Answer)

Is your dog snorting? Is dog snorting normal for some types of dogs / breeds … or should you see a vet ASAP? We’ve got answers....
chihuahua dog sleeping