Staff Newspaper Column
Critter Corner
Memorable shelter stories from 2021
Dear Critter Corner: Do you have any fun shelter animal stories to share from this past year? Are there any stories that stand out as particularly memorable? Working at a shelter requires a sense of humor, and there have been plenty of quirky animals that have passed...
Dog refusing to walk
Dear Critter Corner: We adopted a new pup a few months ago, I have noticed while on walks he will sometimes put the brakes on and refuse to walk. It seems to have gotten worse and he is refusing to walk more often. Are there any tips you can give me to help me be...
Teaching dog “leave it”
Dear Critter Corner: We just adopted a new puppy and I am worried about him getting into our holiday decorations around the house. Are there any tips you can give me to help this holiday be less stressful for all? This is a great time to work on teaching your pup a...
Are bones safe for my dog?
Dear Critter Corner: My family recently just got a new pup in time for the holidays and we are very excited! Is it okay to give my dog a turkey drumstick? What kind of bones are okay for dogs to chew? Dogs and bones are a timeless pairing and chewing on them can be...
Preparing excited dog for guests
Dear Critter Corner: We will be having guests over for the holidays and they are bringing their new pup with them. Do you have any suggestions for introducing our pup to our guests’ pup? There are a few things you can do to help make the introduction and visit...
Best dog breeds for apartment living
Dear Critter Corner: I am looking to get a dog but live in a crowded apartment complex and have heard to stay away from large dogs. Do you have any recommendations on what breed of dog to adopt? There are many decisions to consider when adopting a dog and renting a...
Keeping dog away from kitchen counters
Dear Critter Corner: Our pup recently discovered that he is tall enough to reach the counter and unfortunately has been rewarded a few times by stealing food. I am concerned with the holidays around the corner and the food that will be out when guests are around. ...
Bringing newly adopted pet home for the first time
Dear Critter Corner: I am very excited to be able to adopt my first pet! I am leaning towards a dog and would like to know what to expect once I bring them home? Change can be jarring for anyone, especially for an animal that does not understand the concept the same...
Dog’s first Halloween
Dear Critter Corner: This will be our pup’s first Halloween; do you have any suggestions on how to help prepare so that we have a safe and stress-free Halloween? There are several things we can look at to make sure the night goes well for all involved. Here are a few...
Black cats are good luck
Dear Critter Corner: I have adopted a couple of black kittens that are adorable, but some of my friends sincerely think they are going to bring me bad luck. They have brought me nothing but happiness. Why are people suspicious of black cats? When it comes to black...