It's almost here. Fireworks season. Every year I think "oh it won't be so bad" when the fireworks start. But, as those of you who live with a noise-phobic dog (or cat) know, it always is that bad, and sometimes worse, than I expect. All it takes is one ka-boom and the trembling starts.

Here are a few things to get in place now to ease into the noisy season.

Photo: Fireworks Store / david_jones on Flickr

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Have you ever asked what you can do to get rid of that "doggie" odor in your pet? It may not be as simple as changing the shampoo you use. Various skin and coat conditions can cause foul odor that may or may not be helped by simply bathing your pet.

Here are some common conditions that may cause a bad odor to emanate from your pet. As always, please see your veterinarian to fully assess and address the problem, as it may have a medical or disease basis.

Related Reading:

• Skunks - what you need to know if your pet has been sprayed by a skunk

Photo: SadieShihTzu/Flickr

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Questions about pet odors are common. Often a bad smell indicates a problem or disease process, but not always.

What should you do if you notice that your dog's feet have an odor, often described as smelling like corn chips or old popcorn? Is this something to worry about? Read this FAQ to find out more about what is commonly termed "Frito Feet."

Photo: Dog Paws rachellynnae/Flickr

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If you feed your dog a commercial diet, do you need to supplement? What about home-cooked diets? Is it OK to supplement food to encourage appetite?

Veterinary nutritionist Dr. Marcie Campion, Ph.D. answers these viewer questions as part of a series of interviews on pet nutrition.

Learn More: Nutrition Q & A Interviews

Related Reading:

• Is My Pet Overweight?
• Bones And Raw Food: The BARF Diet

Photo: Happy Dogs / Tobyotter on Flickr

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