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. broken pieces of dark chocolate

    Can Cats Eat Chocolate?

    Most people know that dogs shouldn’t eat chocolate – and neither should cats! But why not?
  2. tired brown tabby cat

    Autoimmune Disease in Cats

    Autoimmune diseases in cats, such as autoimmune skin conditions and lupus, often present with varied or even vague symptoms, which can make...
  3. Siamese cat drinking milk out of bowl

    Is Milk Bad for Cats?

    Let’s explore why most kinds of milk are actually likely to upset your cat’s stomach.
  4. long-haired tuxedo cat with orchids

    12 Houseplants Safe for Cats

    Plants in a household with curious cats can be dangerous. Check out 12 houseplants safe for cats.
  5. tabby kitten and tuxedo kitten in tree

    FIV vs FeLV: Know the Difference

    What is the difference between FIV and FeLV? Dr. Justine Lee explains that these contagious diseases affect a cat's immune system, but one...
  6. Cat in grass at risk of being infected by Lyme disease

    Lyme Disease in Cats: Uncommon, But Serious

    Learn why your cat might be at risk, which symptoms you should watch out for, and tips for prevention.
  7. orange tabby cat getting vaccine from vet

    Cat Vaccines Guide: Types, Schedules & Costs

    Learn about the importance of cat vaccines and what you can do to be prepared for your cat’s next shot.
  8. cat sniffing herbs

    14 Herbs Safe for Cats — and 9 To Avoid

    Many herbs are safe for cats. Find out which ones may benefit cats and which herbs to avoid.
  9. hand petting tired long-haired calico cat

    Pneumonia in Cats: Signs & Treatment

    Learn about the symptoms and how to treat 3 types of pneumonia in cats.