Staff Newspaper Column
Critter Corner
Taking a Cat on Vacation
Dear Critter Corner: My family is going on a four-day trip, and we’re planning on bringing our cat Henry in the car with us. He’s very adventurous and social at home and in our yard. Is there anything we should do to prepare for the trip? That’s great that Henry is...
Working with High-Energy Kittens
Dear Critter Corner: The kitten I recently adopted is very energetic and seems to never tire out! I have provided quite a few toy options for him to play with, but he seems to only want to engage with them when I am physically in the room with him. When I ignore him,...
Advice for First-Time Dog Owners
Dear Critter Corner: My partner and I just adopted a new pup that we adore. Both of us had childhood dogs, but this is our first dog as adults. What tips can you give us as first-time dog owners? Congratulations on the new pup! There are many things you can do to set...
What to Do When a Cat Is Having Multiple Accidents
Dear Critter Corner: My cat has been having accidents all over the house, along the bottom of the couches, bottom of doors, and sometimes even the wall next to his litterbox. I’ve been cleaning the spills with bleach, but nothing seems to stop him from using the same...
Introducing Your Cat to Other Cats in a New Home
Dear Critter Corner— My living situation has changed, and I will now be moving into a home with my friend who has newly adopted kittens. My cat has lived with other cats in the past but can get a bit overwhelmed when in a new environment. Adjusting to a new...
Building a Rescue Pup’s Confidence
Dear Critter Corner: We have a new rescue pup who was not well socialized before coming to our home and seems to be terrified of just about everything. While I’m seeing improvement in the few days he’s been with us, I would like to know the best way to move forward...
Helping a Cat with Separation Anxiety
Dear Critter Corner: When I’m home with my 2-year-old cat she follows me everywhere I go -- into the bathroom, the kitchen, even the closet. If I’m leaving home, she tugs at my pants, blocks the door, and then paws at the door once I’ve left. Do you know why she’s so...
Choosing a Cat or Kitten to Adopt
Dear Critter Corner: I have wanted to adopt a cat or kitten for the past couple of years and I feel that I am finally ready for this big commitment. Since I have more time on my hands, I am available to do more hands-on work with the kitten or cat that I end up...
How to Stop a Dog’s Unwanted Attention-Seeking Behaviors
Dear Critter Corner: We have had our pup for just over 6 months, and are noticing that when he is not getting the attention he wants, he will paw, nip, or jump on us to get it. It can be painful as he is a bigger pup. What can we do to change this behavior? Many pups...
Her Cat Is Grabbing and Nipping
Dear Critter Corner: There are a lot of birds outside of my apartment and my cat has been stalking them from inside. Then when I’m walking around she keeps trying to grab at my pants or nip my legs. It sounds like what you’re describing is your cat potentially...