Staff Newspaper Column
Critter Corner
Catios and leash training your cat
Dear Critter Corner: My cat keeps running out in the yard and I think he just wants to be outside. Do you think I should try taking him outside? Cats gain a lot of mental stimulation and exercise from being outdoors, so it can be a sweet treat to let your cat into the...
Door dashing dog
Dear Critter Corner: We just adopted a new pup and need some advice on teaching him not to dart out the front door anytime it’s opened. We live on a busy street and he has gotten out once and it was very scary! Please help! I am so glad to hear that your pup is...
Crate training your cat
Dear Critter Corner: I recently adopted a bonded pair of 2-year-old cats, and plan on taking them to the vet for their annual checkup. Any tips on how to train them to be comfortable in their crates? Crate training cats can be a fun and rewarding experience for both...
Teaching puppy to come when called
Dear Critter Corner: We just got a new puppy and want to start working on getting them to come to us when called. Can you give us some pointers? This is the perfect time to start training since when our pups are very young, they tend to follow us everywhere. Take...
Helping cats adjust to a move
Dear Critter Corner: I’m planning a major move across the country with two senior cats and it’s kind of daunting. To add to that we’re downsizing from a one-bedroom apartment to a studio, help! Any kind of move, whether down the street, to another city, or across the...
Training a new puppy to become a therapy dog
Dear Critter Corner: I have been wanting to do therapy work for some time and would like to train my new puppy to become a therapy dog. Can you guide me in the right direction? Pet assisted therapy can be very rewarding for all parties involved! It is important to...
Explanation of the various types of “drive” in dogs
Dear Critter Corner: I keep hearing the term “drive” thrown around when talking about dogs, but what does it mean? Canines are hard-wired to view and interact with the world in specific ways, categorically broken down and classified as “drives”. Many trainers will...
Crate training
Dear Critter Corner: We have been having a hard time with crate training our new puppy. Are there any tips or tricks you can give us to help with the process? Crates can be a valuable tool when it comes to house training and your puppy! Here are a few tips on making...
Rough playing cat
Dear Critter Corner: I have a feisty young tabby cat that wants to pounce and tackle me all day. It has started going after my ankles and it hurts! What can I do to stop this behavior? Rough play is common in young cats and a normal behavior. Luckily, it is an easy...
Is a husky the right dog for you?
Dear Critter Corner: I love the way Huskies look fluffy and wolfish. I have been considering adopting one for a while but want to learn more about them. Is there anything I should know before adopting one? Siberian and Alaskan Huskies are the most famous part of the...