Staff Newspaper Column
Critter Corner
What to pack when traveling with your dog
I’m heading out on a last minute trip this weekend and bringing my dog Willy. We’re staying at our friend’s cabin. I’ve already set aside the essentials like food and his leash, but what else should I pack for him? Hooray for a dog friendly vacation! There are a few...
Helping puppy not be frazzled in social situations
Dear Miss Behavin’: We have a new puppy who loves people but can get overwhelmed at times. It’s our turn to host Thanksgiving this year so we will have about 20 people at our house! How do we keep Franny from getting too frazzled? We all know holidays can be stressful...
Litterbox issues
Dear Miss Behavin’: I’ve been having various issues with my two cats, from litterbox problems to kitty scuffles every so often. I’ve searched online for help, and am overwhelmed by the number of resources and advice available. How do I sort through all of it? Many a...
Training dog to not bark when mail is delivered
Dear Miss Behavin’: Our Dalmatian, Groovy, loses his mind whenever the mail or a package is delivered to our house. With the holidays fast approaching (and surely more packages arriving), how can we help him keep his cool? Unfortunately for dog parents, the old saying...
Dog chewing on leash
Dear Miss Behavin’: My dog Sparky has picked up a new habit of chewing on the leash at the beginning of our walks. He tends to settle after some time, but I worry he’ll chew through his leash and get loose. How can we avoid this entirely? If Sparky is only chomping on...
Older cat going outside of the litterbox
Dear Miss Behavin’: My older male cat has been peeing just outside the litter box. He’s been to the vet and doesn’t have a UTI, what else could be the issue? When cats, especially senior cats, start to have litterbox issues, it isn’t always due to a urinary or bladder...
Easing tensions with your dog and dog guests during the holidays
Dear Miss Behavin’: My son will be home for an extended visit over the holidays and he’ll be bringing his dog, Angus, with him. Angus and our family dog have met a few times, but haven’t hit it off. How can we help them enjoy one another more? With the added...
Overcoming fear of the harness
Dear Miss Behavin’: Last week my husband accidentally pinched our dog Pip when buckling his harness to go out for a walk. Now poor Pip runs away each time we pull out the harness! How do we help him overcome his newfound fear? First of all, let’s talk prevention. When...
Helping reduce stress in cats when you’re away
Dear Miss Behavin’: I have a business trip planned in a few weeks and my cats usually get stressed when I’m gone, even with a pet-sitter. How can I help them to be more comfortable when I’m away? Any type of change in the home, whether leaving for a trip, moving to a...
Dealing with potty accidents
Dear Miss Behavin’: Our two year old Dalmatian mix, Freya, recently had a few potty accidents in the house. We think it happened at night and while we were gone during the day. I know we aren’t supposed to smear her face in it, but what other tips are there for a...
