Staff Newspaper Column
Critter Corner
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...
Pup Doesn’t Like His Harness
Dear Critter Corner: We’ve noticed that our pup has started to run from us when we are getting ready to put his harness on to go for a walk. We have to chase him around the house and almost corner him to put the harness on. Do you have any tips for us to make this...
Stray Cats at Our Patio Door
Dear Critter Corner: There are a few stray cats in my neighborhood that seem friendly, but my cat has been standing at the sliding glass door hissing and growling at them. What should I do to help her? It sounds like your cat might be getting a little territorial...
Should You Trim Your Cat’s Hair?
Dear Critter Corner: It’s getting warmer where I live and I’m not sure if I should trim my medium cat’s hair to help her stay cool. Any ideas? Summer is here and it’s starting to warm up around the Bay Area. It’s a good time to start preparing for the hotter summer...
Tips for Bringing Home a New Kitten
Dear Critter Corner: I have found the perfect kitten at my local adoption center that I am ready to adopt and bring home! We are first-time owners and were wondering if you have any suggestions for what necessities are required when bringing home our new furry friend...
Our Dog Is Frequently Scratching Himself
Dear Critter Corner: We have noticed that our pup has started to do a lot of scratching. He is on a flea preventative, so we are not sure what is causing the excessive scratching. Do you have any suggestions or ideas as to why he may be doing so much scratching? Our...
Could My Cat Have a Urinary Tract Infection?
Dear Critter Corner: My cat Oli has been going in and out of the litter box for the past few days, sometimes using it and sometimes not. He’s also had a few accidents around the house. Could he have a urinary tract infection? From what you’re describing, it sounds...
Enrichment Activities for Energetic Cats
Dear Critter Corner: I recently adopted a two-year-old cat from my local shelter, and we have bonded a lot over the past couple of months. He is easily excited and loves to run around the house and at times gets into things that he isn’t supposed to. What are some...