JoAnna Pendergrass, DVM

JoAnna Pendergrass, DVM, is a veterinarian and freelance medical writer in Atlanta, Ga. She is the founder and owner of JPen Communications, a medical communications company that specializes in educating pet parents about pet health and pet care. Dr. Pendergrass is passionate about closing the gap between what the veterinarian says and what the pet parent understands. Through her writing, she empowers pet parents with the medical information they need to make good health decisions for their pets. She is a member of the American Medical Writers Association and the BlackDVM Network. In her spare time, Dr. Pendergrass enjoys spending time with her husband, reading, and being a bona fide science nerd.

Fading Puppy Syndrome: How to Help a Sick Newborn Puppy

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Fading newborn puppies need help right away to survive the early weeks of life.

What Is Anemia in Dogs, and How Can You Help Your Pup if They Have It?

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Anemia makes a dog feel tired and not like themselves. Here's what you can do if your dog is showing signs of anemia.

Cancer Treatment in Dogs Can Include Chemotherapy, Surgery, and Radiation Therapy

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Concerned about your dog's cancer diagnosis? Learning about cancer treatment options can help you confidently decide what to do next.

Glaucoma in Dogs: Cloudy Eyes Mean You Need to Visit Your Pup's Veterinarian

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Cloudy eyes and drooping eyelids may mean your dog has glaucoma and needs treatment right away.

Everything You Need to Know About Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) in Dogs

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A big heart can mean lots of love—but maybe a serious heart problem, too.

Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs: What It Is, What Causes It, and How To Treat It

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Here's what you can do if your dog's heart isn't working as well as it used to.

FIP in Cats: Here's What You Need to Know About This Devastating Disease

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Feline infectious peritonitis is overwhelmingly fatal, but thankfully the disease is rare.

How Much Water Should a Dog Drink?

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Is your dog drinking too much, too little, or just enough water?

Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs: What It Is, What Causes It, and How To Treat It

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Here's what you can do if your dog's heart isn't working as well as it used to.

FIP in Cats: Here's What You Need to Know About This Devastating Disease

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Feline infectious peritonitis is overwhelmingly fatal, but thankfully the disease is rare.

How Much Water Should a Dog Drink?

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Is your dog drinking too much, too little, or just enough water?

What To Do About Bladder Stones if Your Dog Is Struggling to Pee

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Bladder stones make urination painful and uncomfortable for dogs and may become a medical emergency. Here's how to help your dog get relief from these painful stones.

Why Are My Dog's Eyes Cloudy?

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A trip to the vet is likely in your future. Here are some of the causes they'll look for.

DHPP Vaccine for Dogs: Costs, Side Effects, and How it Works

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The DHPP vaccine protects your dog against five potentially fatal diseases, all with one shot. Here's what you need to know about this life-saving vaccine.

Hydrocephalus in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

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Tiny dogs with dome-shaped heads are at risk for a brain problem called hydrocephalus. Knowing how to recognize hydrocephalus will help you get your dog treated before serious brain damage occurs.

Gastroenteritis in Dogs: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

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Doggie diarrhea is nobody's idea of a good time. Knowing how to recognize gastroenteritis will help you get your dog treated for this icky digestive problem ASAP.

Is Your Cat Having Problems Nursing Her Kittens? She Could Have Mastitis

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Mastitis is no fun for a cat or her kittens. Learn about this breast condition and what you can do to treat and prevent it.

The Surprising Signs of Mastitis in Dogs (and How to Help Your Nursing Dog Feel Better)

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Mastitis spells trouble for mom and her nursing pups. Learn how this condition affects your dog's mammary glands and what you can do to treat and prevent it.