Staff Newspaper Column
Critter Corner
Cats need toys that fit their personalities
Dear Critter Corner: My new 9-month-old kitten has a lot of energy, jumping on the furniture, counters and cabinets. How can I prevent her from getting up to any mischief? Young kittens and cats do have a lot of energy and need to channel it in appropriate ways toward...
Harness for dogs
Dear Critter Corner: Our dog has taken to pulling while we are on walks or just about anywhere! We have been looking at front attach harnesses and head halters to help but are very confused as to what is best. Can you tell us the difference between the two and give...
Stray cat needs time alone before it can strut with other pets
Dear Critter Corner: I found a very friendly stray cat over the weekend while walking my dog. I already have a cat at home and have never taken in a stray. What do I do next to keep all of my pets safe and happy? Thank you so much for looking out for the stray cats in...
Socializing puppy
Dear Critter Corner: We are first time dog owners and just adopted a new puppy. We keep hearing about how important socializing our puppy is but are not really sure what that means or the best ways to go about doing it. Can you give us some pointers? Congratulations...
Tips on dealing with cat’s scratching and biting
Dear Critter Corner: Whenever I walk by my cat Fluffles whether in the hallway, through the bedroom, or around a corner, she grabs onto my leg and scratches me. Sometimes she even nips me. What can I do to stop this behavior? From what you’ve described, it sounds...
Keeping dog’s focus
Dear Critter Corner: With the warmer weather upon us, we have seen an increase in all sorts of outside critters like squirrels and birds which we love to watch. Our dog also loves to watch these critters but will not give us the time of day once he is focused on...
Trimming cat’s nails
Dear Critter Corner: I’ve been trying to trim my cat’s nails for the past week and he’s been hissing and growling when I come near. How can I help him get better with grooming? It’s best to take a slow and steady approach when helping your cat become more comfortable...
Exercising dog during hot days
Dear Critter Corner: With the warmer weather upon us, we are concerned with our pup overheating on our walks or outings. Can you give us some tips on how to avoid this and make sure we are still getting him appropriate exercise? This is a great question! Our dogs...
Pet sitter for cat?
Dear Critter Corner: I have a vacation planned in July and am wondering whether I should leave my cat Sheik with my mom or if I should have a pet-sitter come stay with her. Which do you think is the best option? It’s definitely that time of year when summer vacations...
Dining out with dog
We have recently started dining out more with the nicer weather and would like to take our pup along with us but are unsure how they will behave. Do you have any training tips for us to set our pup up for success with the outdoor dining experience? As our weather is...