Monthly Archive for August, 2009

: August, 2009

Should we adopt a kitten or cat?

We have two children ages 7 and 9 and want to add a feline friend to our family. The kids want a kitten. Dad and I think an older cat would be a better match. We have no other pets. Thanks, D.G.

Why does my dog bite my child?

We recently (about 5 or 6 days ago) adopted an approximately 1 year old pug/Boston terrier mix. We had some dominance issues originally (mounting); however he no longer has the issues with my wife and

Is it ok to use “potty” pads?

We’ve just brought a new puppy home! Is it ok to housetrain the puppy using puppy pads and the yard? Will this confuse him at all? Thanks, K.L.

Can you stop the bouncing barker?

A neighbor with kids recently installed a trampoline in their backyard adjacent to mine. Before, the backyard was very quiet for my dachshund mix. Now, he cannot stop barking constantly at the kids. I

Can my mixed breed compete?

Dear Expert, I adopted a wonderful Border Collie mix dog from a local shelter. She is VERY smart and I think a good candidate for agility and obedience competitions. Can she compete in the AKC or are

Do gerbils make good pets?

Our family has never had a pet and we want to start out small. We are thinking of buying a gerbil and were wondering if they make good “starter” pets? J.D.

How do I find a dog trainer?

My nine-month old month Catahoula hound is a total juvenile delinquent! He begs, steals food, barks like a crazy man when we come home and almost pulls my arms out of the socket when we go for walks.

Why is my cat’s coat greasy?

I have a five year old, neutered male Maine Coon mix cat. He is an indoor-only cat. He has always been a good groomer and taken good care of his lovely coat. Lately his coat seems to be kind of dirty

Is “pre-op” blood work necessary?

Dear Expert – I’m having my two-year old Sheltie neutered. The vet wants to do “pre-op” blood work. Danny is healthy, had all his shots and takes a monthly heartworm preventative. Does he really need

Do ferrets need to be sterilized?

Hello! I am interested in purchasing a ferret and wondered if they need to be spayed or neutered? Thanks! A.S.