Accessibility Statement

About

Dr. Laria Herod is a full-time veterinarian and the content creator behind Squally Muffin, a lifestyle brand with an emphasis on human and pet parenting. She shares engaging content on several social media platforms with the help of her doting husband, their adorable daughters, adopted family dog, and chatty cat. After completing her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Tennessee, Laria left her home state to enjoy 300+ days of summer in the greater Phoenix area.

Education

  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
  • University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine
  • 2016 - 2020
  • Bachelor of Science, Animal Sciences
  • University of Tennessee, Knoxville
  • 2012 - 2017

Experience

Dr. Laria Herod is Small Animal General Practice Associate Veterinarian at Banfield Pet Hospital in Queen Creek, Arizona. She began her journey as a blogger turned influencer turned content creator while in veterinary school. When she is not creating new memories with her family, she likes to fill in at various veterinary hospitals across the greater Phoenix area to help with the great veterinary shortage.

Articles

  1. Can Cats Eat Bacon or Other Processed Meats?

    Can Cats Eat Bacon or Other Processed Meats?

    Happy International Bacon Day! It’s hard to resist the smell of crackling bacon—whether you’re human or feline. But...
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  2. Do Cats Eat Bugs? (You Won’t Like the Answer)

    Do Cats Eat Bugs? (You Won’t Like the Answer)

    Bugs, insects, creepy-crawlies… whatever you call them, chances are you shudder at the thought of your pet crunching...
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  3. cat paw on a snake

    How To Recognize a Snake Bite on a Cat - a Vet Explains

    Learn how to recognize a snake bite on a cat, including the difference between a venomous and non-venomous bite...
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  4. Can Cats Eat Ice Cream?

    Can Cats Eat Ice Cream?

    July is National Ice Cream Month. (Naturally!) If you indulge in this creamy sweet treat from time to time, you may...
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  5. grey cat licking paw

    Hot Spots on Cats: Causes & Treatment

    If you’ve ever noticed your cat excessively licking or biting at a spot on his body, he may be experiencing hot spots...
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  6. How To Make a Cat First Aid Kit

    How To Make a Cat First Aid Kit

    Updated July 29, 2024 If you’re putting together your own first aid kit or disaster preparedness kit, why...
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  7. woman cuddling black kitten

    Can Cats Get Sick From Humans?

    Rarely, certain diseases and infections can be passed from humans to cats. Get prevention tips here...
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  8. grey cat with tongue sticking out

    Caring For a Cerebellar Hypoplasia Cat: 10 Tips

    Unless you or someone you know has cared for a cerebellar hypoplasia cat (or you’ve come across one on ...
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  9. What Causes Seizures in Cats?

    What Causes Seizures in Cats?

    Seizures in cats can be a symptom of epilepsy, but other possible causes include dangers hiding in your own home...
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  10. hand scratching orange tabby cat back

    What Is Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome?

    Cats tend to display odd behaviors from time to time. But certain odd behaviors warrant a vet checkup—particularly...
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  11. tabby cat hiding

    6 Tips for Treating Cat Anxiety

    Learn about the symptoms you may see in an anxious cat and treatment options available...
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  12. Pros and Cons of Using Cat Diapers

    Pros and Cons of Using Cat Diapers

    Incontinence is a fairly common problem among sick and elderly cats. Unfortunately, it often results in frequent...
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