Staff Newspaper Column
Critter Corner
Overstimulated Cat
Dear Miss Behavin’: My cat Felix has been biting and scratching me a lot lately, and I think it’s from overstimulation. Would getting a second cat help? Although getting a second cat might seem like a good way for Felix to have a playmate, it can also make things...
Activities to do with your dog when it’s too hot outside
Dear Miss Behavin’: I don’t want my dogs to overdo it in the heat this week. What are some things they can do that are fun but safe on hot days? Kudos for being mindful of your dog’s well-being in the heat! It’s easy for dogs to overdo it on hot days. There are a...
Tips on dealing with excited puppy who accidentally piddles
Dear Miss Behavin’: My six month old puppy Josie is getting used to being alone for short periods, and all is going well, but sometimes when I come back, she runs right up to me and piddles at me feet. Why is this happening? It sounds like Josie is simply so excited...
Tips on safe ways to allow your cat outside
Dear Miss Behavin’: The weather has been warm lately and my cat has been excited to go outside. How can I safely let her explore without worrying about her getting lost or injured? With the warmer summer weather approaching it’s definitely nice to let your cat have...
Packing for vacation with your dog
Dear Miss Behavin’ We booked a last minute dog-friendly getaway for Memorial Day weekend and we’re bringing our dog, Willy. What sort of things do you pack for your dog? Hooray for a dog friendly vacation! There are a few things you might not think of that will make...
Training your dog to not eat so fast
Dear Miss Behavin’: We got a sweet new puppy, Flower, last week who has quite the appetite. A few times, she’s eaten her meals so quickly that they come right back up! How do we slow her down? First of all, congratulations on your new puppy! It’s good that she has a...
What to do if you find a newborn kitten
Dear Miss Behavin’: I found a newborn kitten in the backyard, what should I do now? If you’re not sure about how to take care of a newborn kitten and don’t have the means or time, check with your local animal shelter or rescues on whether they take in newborns. Feel...
Advice on curtailing your dog’s barking when you’re not home
Dear Miss Behavin’: Our neighbor recently left a nice note in our mailbox letting us know that our dog, Bruiser, has been barking during the day when we’re gone. We had no idea! How can we work on this if we aren’t home? First of all, it was kind of your neighbor to...
Should I be concerned my cat’s eating habits have changed?
Dear Miss Behavin’: My cat has become finicky with his food and hasn’t been eating much over the past week. Should I take him to the vet for a checkup? If your cat’s food preferences have changed suddenly it’s definitely a good idea to schedule a visit with his vet...
High value treats
Dear Miss Behavin’: I’m working on my dog’s reactivity on walks and someone mentioned using “high value treats.” What are they and how can I utilize them? Let’s say you have a bad habit of rushing out the door in the mornings. You find yourself flustered and most days...
