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Athena Gaffud, DVM

Athena Gaffud, DVM

Veterinarian

12 articles

Athena Gaffud, DVM, is a board-certified veterinarian and writer based in the Cagayan Valley of the northern Philippines. She runs the website countryvetmom.com Dr. Gaffud earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of the Philippines Los Baños in 2011, ranking in the top 10 and receiving the Best Undergraduate Thesis Award in Large Animals. With over a decade of experience, she has worked as a researcher, a practitioner for small and large animals, and in veterinary technical sales, marketing, and pet insurance. A published author, Dr. Gaffud promotes responsible pet ownership and combats misinformation on animal care through her platforms, including the DocAthena Facebook Page and DocAthena YouTube channel. She is a writer and editor for various pet-related websites such as Total Vet, Honest Paws, PangoVet, Dogster, Catster, My Best PH, Paw Origins, Bully Max, Not a Bully, Paws and Claws CBD, many others. She was also cited in different pet-related media articles such as The Dog People, USA Today, Newsweek, New York Post, Reader’s Digest, Smithsonian Magazine, Woman’s World, Dog Time, Patch, Kinship, Martha Stewart, and many others. Moreover, she is also a published fiction author on Kindle.

Golden Retriever smiling for AAFCO approved dog food
Food and Nutrition3mo ago

AAFCO Approved Dog Food: What It Means and How to Choose the Right One

AAFCO approved dog food is something a lot of pet parents wonder about. Knowing how to choose the right food is important for all dogs.

5 min read
protein for dogs as dog smiles
Food and Nutrition3mo ago

Protein for Dogs: Signs of Protein Deficiency and How to Fix It

Knowing how much protein for dogs to feed your pup is very important. Discover if your dog has protein deficiency and how to fix it.

5 min read
Dog drinks fresh water to keep hydrated
Food and Nutrition3mo ago

How Much Water Should My Dog Drink and the Role of High-Moisture Foods

If you ever wonder "how much water should my dog drink," you aren't alone. Dogs require a certain water intake each day, and nutrition can help.

5 min read
dog eating a bowl of healthy dog food
Food and Nutrition3mo ago

Healthy Dog Food: What to Look For

Knowing what healthy dog food is and how to determine the best one for your dog is what this article will discuss.

5 min read
Happy dog relaxing near SUV with water bowl, highlighting best vehicle for dogs comfort travel.
Pet Safety3mo ago

Best Vehicle for Dogs: Ride in Style with Our 5 Picks

Choosing the best vehicle for dogs ensures safe, stress-free trips for you and your pup. From SUVs to minivans, explore our top 5 dog-friendly vehicles designed for comfort, easy access, and pet safety on every journey.

5 min read
Find out Is The Farmer's Dog safe as dog eats from bowl of food
Food and Nutrition3mo ago

Is The Farmer’s Dog Safe? A Veterinarian Explains What Dog Parents Should Know

Is The Farmer’s Dog safe for daily feeding? Learn how human-grade ingredients, USDA-inspected kitchens, and vet-formulated recipes support dog safety.

5 min read
White kitten resting on a towel, representing comfort and cleanliness from using tofu cat litter.
Pet Supplies10mo ago

What Is Tofu Cat Litter and Should I Try It?

Tofu cat litter is a plant-based, eco-friendly alternative to traditional litter made from soybean byproducts. It’s biodegradable, low in dust, and naturally controls odor without harsh chemicals. This article explores its benefits, drawbacks, and whether it’s the right choice for your cat and home.

5 min read
Dog with a red collar rummaging through a trash can
Pet Safety0y ago

What to Do If My Dog Ate Trash?

Dogs are naturally curious, and sometimes that curiosity leads them straight into the trash. While some items may be harmless, others can pose serious health risks, including poisoning and intestinal blockages. Learn what to do if your dog ate trash, when to seek veterinary care, and how to prevent future incidents.

5 min read
Fluffy Cavapoo puppy with a red and white polka dot ball in its mouth.
Pet Safety1y ago

Safe Chew Toys for Puppies: A Complete Guide for Pet Parents

Safe chew toys are crucial for teething puppies. This guide highlights key features like durability and non-toxic materials, showcasing top picks to soothe sore gums and prevent destructive chewing. Find the perfect toy for your pup!

5 min read
Golden Retriever puppy lying on grass with sad, expressive eyes
Food and Nutrition1y ago

Dog Food Allergy Test: Is It Worth a Try?

A dog food allergy test can help identify ingredients triggering itching, vomiting, or digestive issues. Learn about testing methods and their reliability.

5 min read
Puppy chew toy
Pet Safety1y ago

Safe Chew Toys for Puppies: A Complete Guide for Pet Parents 

Safe chew toys for puppies is something all new pet parents look for. Petful's guide to options will help you find the best ones.

5 min read
can cats eat dog food? cat eating
Food and Nutrition1y ago

Can Cats Eat Dog Food? An Expert Explains

Can cats eat dog food? While an occasional nibble might not seem harmful, dog food lacks the essential nutrients cats need to thrive. Discover why dog food isn’t suitable for felines, the risks of regular consumption, and practical tips to prevent this behavior.

5 min read

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