A Couple of Pawrific Pals!

Louie & Bentley

I have some amazing clients and Louie and Bentley's parents are among the best. Not only have they given a wonderful home to two dogs of such varying size, a Pug and a Husky,  but the Pug, Bentley, is a special needs dog. Due to spinal problems, Bentley has partial paralysis in his rear legs. He does a good job of scooting around and even getting his legs to cooperate with him at times. But he cannot manage stairs and has to be carried. He sometimes has accidents too, but his parents make it so easy to clean up after him. 

Bentley & his wheels

My visits with these two are always so much fun! We run (or in Bentley's case, shuffle-slide) around the yard playing with toys and sticks. Louie and I also chase each other around the yard being super silly. They live across from a grocery store and Bentley likes to announce himself to everyone coming in and out. People passing by the yard will comment on how cute, good and adorable they are. I couldn't agree more. 

Louie lovin' the snow!

Not too long ago, they got wheels for Bentley. You should see this kid! He's a speedster! He zooms around the yard as if he were born with wheels. His parents say that with his wheels on, he's more like his younger self. He even tries to bully his brother Louie about, chasing him and nipping at his ankles. Fortunately, Louie seems to think it's a game. He jumps around, runs off then runs right back at Bentley play bowing and wagging his tail. Sometimes, when Louie's bouncing back and forth and Bentley's barking, I'm convinced I can hear Louie snickering.

"I got it!"

In the winter, Louie is more in his element. He would love to stay outside frolicking in the snow all day long! Bentley just likes being outside, but I have to remember that he has a much thinner coat and isn't made for a winter wonderland. This is where treats come in handy. I'll get Bentley inside with just mentioning treats. I then take a treat out to Louie and lure him with his nose. If he's being particularly stubborn, I'll put a bit of peanut butter on it and he'll come following right away. 

"Is that treat for me?"

 Yay treats!

Preparing the Kitty for Moving

One of our clients is soon to be moving with their cat. They asked me for advice about what they should do to prepare their kitty for the move and what type of cat carrier I would recommend for a cat who is not fond of travel. So, along with a link to the ASPCA's Car Travel Tips, this is what I suggested.

I would highly recommend a carrier that has a top door and to get one bigger than what the cat needs so there is space to move around. Have the carrier out in the house and open for a few days (weeks if possible) before the move. That way when the day of the trip arrives, the kitty won't run and hide as soon as it comes out. The reason for leaving it open is so that kitty can leisurely investigate it. Put some treats or food in there so there will be a nice yummy surprise which will give the carrier positive association. Also, put comfy blankets or a kitty bed that the kitty already uses in there. That way it smells like the kitty and it is available for a nap which will add more positive association with the carrier. 

During the time the carrier is just sitting out, check it frequently to make sure kitty hasn't left any "presents" in it. If there is pee or poop in it, clean all of the smell out of it. (Most cats won't, this is just a precaution.) 

On the day of the move, the kitty will sense the nervous anxiety that moving often brings with it. Try to stay as calm and upbeat as possible with kitty. If kitty likes to play, I suggest playing with kitty for as long as possible before the kitty goes in the carrier. A tired kitty will always be easier to move. Doing it the day of the move may not be possible, but even a good play session the evening before will be helpful.