Long accustomed to the seclusion of suburban life, 5-year-old Aspen was easily overwhelmed after moving to an Uptown apartment building. When she stepped out into the hallway, a few apartments would bark at her, or worse, a front door would swing open without warning. Sometimes the elevator stopped between floors to allow strangers to enter […]
Winter’s short days and biting windchills tend to shrink a dog’s daily routine. Small and thin-haired breeds and senior dogs may be reluctant to go outside because of the cold. As for the rest, fewer walks, less outdoor play, and less time in the sun can lead to canine frustration, boredom, and a whole lot
Activities to Brighten Your Pet’s Winter Read More »
Tugger and Teri were a spirited pair of 5-year-old English cocker spaniels much loved by their owner. For most of his life, Tugger had traveled the show circuit scoring conformation wins and bragging rights while Teri stayed home enjoying the owner’s undivided attention. After Tugger was retired from competition, the pups set about to prove
Since dogs and cats do not come with trouble-shooting guides, you could be forgiven for missing a few cues here and there, particularly when a pet is feeling sick or troubled. Even for those of you most in touch with your pet’s feelings, evolutionary hardwiring will likely prevent the pet from communicating her wants and
8 Things Pets Wish They Could Tell You Read More »
Back when most people worked a full day at the office, a young marketing professional who spent much of her free time outdoors decided to get a dog. Her dream pet would be a beloved companion, early morning jogging partner, and fellow explorer on weekend camping trips. Between the outdoor fun and games, the dog
Biscuits for Barks Read More »
Just in time for holiday wish lists and New Year’s resolutions, the following canine basics will bring out the best in your bestie: 1. Guidance No dog wants to get yelled at for breaking the rules. Setting consistent boundaries early in life — or early in your new relationship with an adopted dog — and
5 Things Your Dog Needs From You Read More »
Homer did not fit the profile of the typical dog daycare member. He was a chunky 7-year-old terrier mix that had spent his entire life sharing quiet evenings and weekends with his bookish owner. Yet he was the first to arrive at daycare on his welcome day. Because his owner was desperate. Homer’s attention seeking
Homer Goes to Daycare Read More »
Friendly, sweet-natured Periwinkle spent the pandemic years holding down a sofa, a commitment on full display the afternoon I met with her owner. She did not budge when I knocked on the front door and, amazingly, did not bark. Around the open living area were bags of dog food and assorted treats, most within reach
Princess Drop & Drag Read More »
Never underestimate what your dog (or cat) can or will do when they want something badly enough. The Mischief-Maker is about Homer, a little dog that only wanted his owner’s time and attention but ended up feeling grumpy all the time because his favorite human was exasperated and exhausted by his persistent attempts to get
Is Your Pet Demanding? Read More »
Scout’s owners wanted their little dog to “talk” to them. Welcomed into their hearts and home at 9 weeks of age, Scout had reached the 16 week mark without a single woof. And the owners wanted very much to hear from her. Which they did about a month later when Mr. Doorbell beckoned and Scout
When I’m Calling Yoouuu! Read More »
Helping a dog to kick a strong barking habit is hard. But without your help, the dog is powerless to change the behavior you don’t like. It is a process that requires time, patience, and understanding, especially in the beginning when all efforts to affect change are soundtracked by a frustrated barker. Stick to the
4 Ways to Fix Problem Barking Read More »
Housetraining a puppy in the city can be more difficult because 1) city life can easily overload a naïve puppy’s superb senses, and 2) puppies are easily distracted. If your puppy won’t urinate outside, try this: First thing in the morning fill a large bowl with warm water and stir in a little wet food.
Puppy Won’t Pee Outside? Read More »
