At the highest metaphysical level, my teacher was right: It takes no effort to be free. But interestingly enough, this spiritual freedom is of little help to me now as I face one of the most challenging decisions of my life. As life is so full of paradox, so is enlightenment.

It's early in the New Year, and no doubt many have vowed to exercise and get into shape. But do you look at your dog and feel guilty that you're working out instead of playing with him? How about incorporating your dog into a cardio, calorie-burning workout?

Fred and I have spent almost every day together since he was weaned by his mother. At the Lundgren home, we are known as "Big Fred" and "Little Fred," but we both come to attention whenever my wife calls our name.

I've read numerous funny emails about how being with a dog is preferable to being with people -- no complaints, unconditional love.

As a man who assumes the community role of a health care provider and the personal role of a chronic hypochondriac, the potential for canines in medical care may just be the last straw I need to finally become the dog owner that I never thought I'd become.

"Brachy" is a Greek word meaning short, and "cephalic" means head. These animals are short-headed, short-muzzled breeds. Due to this altered facial construction, all these pets have what is called brachycephalic respiratory syndrome to varying degrees.

There are two concerns for a dog that has eaten bread dough. One, there's a large mass of dough in the stomach that is continuing to rise. Two, the warm environment of the stomach promotes ongoing fermentation of the alcohol in the dough, which can result in ethanol toxicosis.