ArcaMax

Dear Cathy, A rescue dog has recently joined our family. The problem? One minute a sweetie and the next, a terror. Any recommendations for a positive reinforcement trainer would be greatly appreciated.

— MaryAnn, Hampton Bays, New York

Dear MaryAnn,

It’s not unusual for some dogs to be sweet one moment and reactive or overwhelmed the ...Read more

Creating an indoor garden is a wonderful way to bring the beauty of nature into your home. However, for pet owners, it's crucial to ensure that the plants you choose are safe for your furry companions. Many common household plants can be toxic to pets if ingested, leading to harmful consequences. To strike the perfect balance between greenery...Read more

Dalmatians are among the most recognizable dogs in the world, thanks to their spotted coats, athletic build and long association with firehouses, carriages and popular culture. But behind the striking appearance is a breed with specific needs, a strong personality and a history that helps explain why these dogs are not the right fit for every ...Read more

DEAR ABBY: Would you please do a much-needed public service for those of us who have a service dog? Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks for their handlers. Tasks can include smelling dangerously high or low glucose levels, smelling mood swings, anxiety and depression, smelling an impending seizure and many other tasks.

Service ...Read more

Q: I am about to adopt a cat, my first. I want to understand what my new cat is trying to tell me through meowing and body language. Please educate me.

A: Congratulations on adopting your new family member and learning how to communicate with your kitty. Feline vocalizations, body language, scent communication, visual signals and tactile ...Read more

As the Fourth of July approaches, many pet owners are already bracing for what can be one of the most stressful nights of the year for animals.

While fireworks may be festive for people, for many pets they can sound frightening and unpredictable, triggering panic, trembling, pacing, hiding, barking, destructive behavior, or even attempts to ...Read more

Chewing is one of the most normal things a dog can do. It is also one of the most expensive, frustrating and occasionally dangerous habits a household can face.

A dog that chews is not necessarily being stubborn, spiteful or “bad.” Dogs use their mouths to explore the world, relieve stress, soothe sore gums, burn energy and entertain ...Read more

Keeping a bored cat entertained starts with understanding what boredom looks like in the first place. Cats may seem independent, but they are intelligent, curious hunters with strong instincts to chase, climb, scratch, hide and explore. When those instincts are not given a healthy outlet, a cat may turn restless, destructive or withdrawn.

A ...Read more

Cats can be mysterious about almost everything, including water. Some cats drink neatly from a bowl. Some dab at the surface with a paw. Some ignore the expensive fountain you bought and then sprint to the bathroom sink the second they hear running water.

But hydration is not a small matter. Cats need water for digestion, temperature regulation...Read more

Dachshunds may be best known for their long bodies, short legs and endless parade of nicknames, but there is far more to this breed than the punchline of “wiener dog.” Beneath the comic silhouette is a bold, clever and surprisingly rugged hound with a working-dog history, a fierce sense of loyalty and a personality much larger than its frame...Read more

Every dog owner with a yard has seen it happen. The dog trots outside with innocent intentions, sniffs the grass, circles once or twice, then suddenly begins excavating as if entrusted with urgent geological work.

Dirt flies. Paws blur. A neat patch of lawn becomes a crater. The dog looks delighted. The human looks betrayed.

Digging is one of ...Read more

Q: My dog's annual physical is coming up soon, and my veterinarian is sure to recommend the flu shot, which I've declined in the past. I'm rethinking that after a friend's dog came down with the disease. Please tell me about dog flu.

A: Dog flu, formally known as canine influenza, was first recognized in the U.S. in 2004. It is caused by two ...Read more

Dear Cathy, I just read your article in the Chicago Tribune, and I hope that you can help me. My male cat is two years old, and I have had him since he was six weeks old. I am a longtime volunteer at an animal shelter and have owned cats all my life, so I have a good understanding of cats, up until this guy.

I know my cat Dudley loves me. He ...Read more

Keeping our pets entertained is essential for their physical and mental well-being. However, buying new toys can quickly add up and strain our budgets. Instead of splurging on expensive toys, why not get creative and repurpose old household items into DIY pet toys? Not only will you save money, but you'll also have fun making unique toys that...Read more