Staff Newspaper Column
Critter Corner
Tips to Reduce Tugging on the Leash and Barking at Other Dogs
Dear Critter Corner: Our pup just turned 4 years, and we are still struggling with a few behaviors that we have been working on for some time. We’d like to reduce his barking at the neighbor dog and have him walk in our downtown area on a loose leash rather than...
My Cat Is Jumping Up on Counters and Tables
Dear Critter Corner: My cat Milo keeps jumping on our counters, tabletops, and coffee table. How do I get him to stop? Cats naturally like to climb high vertical perches and lounge watching their environment from above. Your cat may be looking for higher areas from...
When to Stop Giving Treats for Training
Dear Critter Corner: When can I stop giving my dog treats for training? This is one of the most common questions from owners. The short answer? Not as soon as you think! Food is one of the most powerful training tools because we control access to it. Since dogs rely...
Protecting and Calming Your Dog on the 4th of July
Dear Critter Corner: We have a new pup in our home and are concerned about the upcoming 4th of July holiday and how our pup will react to the fireworks. What are some steps we can take to ensure a safe and stress-free holiday for our pup? The 4th of July can be a...
Our Dog Gets Distracted and Barks When We’re Out
Dear Critter Corner: Our pup tends to bark at things when we are out and about, especially when they stare at something for too long. We have been working to get more focus and attention from them in this setting but are struggling. Do you have any tips for building...
My Dog Barks at Every Noise
Dear Critter Corner: My dog barks at every noise in the hallway outside our apartment. My neighbors are patient and understanding, but I'd love to help him bark less. Do you have any suggestions? Barking at noises around the home is a normal canine behavior. Dogs are...
Teaching Bite Inhibition to a Puppy
Dear Critter Corner: We’ve had our puppy for a few weeks, and she has become very mouthy (or “bitey”). What can we do to stop her from being so mouthy? Puppies explore the world with their mouths. Nipping, chewing, and grabbing are common behaviors, especially during...
Training Classes for Dogs
Dear Critter Corner: We have done basic obedience classes with our pup and have had a lot of fun. We are looking to do more. Can you give recommendations on the types of classes that are out there and what they focus on? There are many types of training classes out...
Cat Gets the Zoomies Right Before Bed
Dear Critter Corner: My cat gets the zoomies right before bed. She sprints around the house and even climbs up my bedroom door. What can I do to help her settle down? It sounds like your kitty might have some pent-up energy that she needs to get out, and she ends up...
Choosing a Cat or Kitten to Adopt
Dear Critter Corner: My partner and I have finally agreed that now would be a good time to expand our family due to a change in our work schedules. Since my job has now switched to fully remote, I am available to do more hands-on work with the kitten or cat that I end...