Staff Newspaper Column
Critter Corner
Pup Has Started Getting into Mischief
Dear Critter Corner: We have had some recent setbacks in our pup’s training. He has started to get into mischief when alone and has now taken up counter surfing and has mastered the craft. He is only doing this when he thinks we are not watching or are not in the...
Helping Cats Adjust to New Furniture
Dear Critter Corner: My husband and I ordered some new furniture to replace some that was outdated. We’re planning on rearranging the living room once it arrives. Is there anything we should consider for our two cats during all of this? Most cats can be pretty...
Helping Your Kitten Sleep Through the Night
Dear Critter Corner: My partner and I have recently welcomed a kitten into our home and have fallen in love with him! We noticed that he is very active throughout the morning but has also been very vocal and energetic during the night. I have been waking up several...
Dog Is Less Obedient Outside
Dear Critter Corner: We have been working with our pup on basic obedience around the home and yard. He is doing well, but once we step out the front door, it is as though we no longer exist, and his responses to cues are diminished. How can we change this? This can be...
Cat’s Having Trouble Climbing and Jumping
Dear Critter Corner: My 11-year-old kitty has been having some issues jumping on the couch and climbing up her cat tree. Is this related to her being older or something else? If you’re noticing a change in your cat’s behavior, it’s a good idea to let your vet know and...
Helping Shy Kittens Adapt to Their New Home
Dear Critter Corner: I have recently adopted a pair of shy kittens from a local rescue and noticed that they have been a bit hesitant to use their litterbox in the base camp area that I had set up for them. The litter box is very spacious, with a wide lip and a cover...
Teaching a Puppy a Reliable Recall
Dear Critter Corner: We adopted a puppy over the weekend and have started working on some of the basics. Our last pup didn’t have a reliable recall, so we want to do it right this time around. Can you give me some pointers on making sure our pup listens? Teaching a...
How to Prepare for Fireworks
Dear Critter Corner: There were a lot of fireworks this year in my neighborhood, and my cats were really scared. Anything I can do to prepare for the next holiday? Fireworks can be very scary, loud, and abrupt for many animals, causing them to go into hiding indoors...
Newly Adopted Puppy ― Tips for Success
Dear Critter Corner: We just brought home our newly adopted pup. What are some tips you can give us on setting everyone up for success? Congratulations on your newly adopted pup! I am a big believer in having strict rules to start, which you can loosen up on later in...
Introducing a Dog to a New Baby
Dear Critter Corner: We are bringing home a new baby soon and are hoping that he and our dog will be best friends. We can’t wait to introduce them—any tips? Congratulations on your new addition! A great place to start here is with your expectations: set them...