Staff Newspaper Column
Critter Corner
Training dog with a variety of treats
Dear Critter Corner: We have started training with our new pup and are having a hard time finding treats that he likes to use in our training. He will eat them in the house but once outside it is hit or miss. Do you have any suggestions for us? This is a great...
Adjusting cat’s nocturnal schedule
My cat Fred has been waking up at all hours of the night meowing, running around, and creating a lot of noise. It’s been difficult to get a good night’s sleep, can you help? Most cats tend to be nocturnal animals, meaning that they rest and sleep during the day,...
Preparing dog for tense situations
Dear Critter Corner: We have a very shy pup and have been working on exposing him from a distance to people and dogs at our local park that requires all dogs to be on leash. The other day, another dog owner had their dog off leash and it charged our pup. As I called...
Catios and leash training your cat
Dear Critter Corner: My cat keeps running out in the yard and I think he just wants to be outside. Do you think I should try taking him outside? Cats gain a lot of mental stimulation and exercise from being outdoors, so it can be a sweet treat to let your cat into the...
Door dashing dog
Dear Critter Corner: We just adopted a new pup and need some advice on teaching him not to dart out the front door anytime it’s opened. We live on a busy street and he has gotten out once and it was very scary! Please help! I am so glad to hear that your pup is...
Crate training your cat
Dear Critter Corner: I recently adopted a bonded pair of 2-year-old cats, and plan on taking them to the vet for their annual checkup. Any tips on how to train them to be comfortable in their crates? Crate training cats can be a fun and rewarding experience for both...
Teaching puppy to come when called
Dear Critter Corner: We just got a new puppy and want to start working on getting them to come to us when called. Can you give us some pointers? This is the perfect time to start training since when our pups are very young, they tend to follow us everywhere. Take...
Helping cats adjust to a move
Dear Critter Corner: I’m planning a major move across the country with two senior cats and it’s kind of daunting. To add to that we’re downsizing from a one-bedroom apartment to a studio, help! Any kind of move, whether down the street, to another city, or across the...
Training a new puppy to become a therapy dog
Dear Critter Corner: I have been wanting to do therapy work for some time and would like to train my new puppy to become a therapy dog. Can you guide me in the right direction? Pet assisted therapy can be very rewarding for all parties involved! It is important to...
Explanation of the various types of “drive” in dogs
Dear Critter Corner: I keep hearing the term “drive” thrown around when talking about dogs, but what does it mean? Canines are hard-wired to view and interact with the world in specific ways, categorically broken down and classified as “drives”. Many trainers will...
