My Pet World: Be Careful When Removing Ticks Manually

For tips on cat care, check out "CATegorical Care: An Owner's Guide to America's No. 1 Companion," available free at www.catalystcouncil.org. (I was primary editor on the guide, published in conjunction with the American Humane Association, CATalyst Council, American Veterinary Medical Association, and the Society of Animal Welfare Administrators.)

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Q: Fourteen years ago, I adopted three cats from our local humane society. Within the past nine months, I lost my youngest and oldest cat. Remaining is Hunter, my 17-year-old. He seems lost, or lonely. Or maybe old age is just creeping up on him. Initially, he didn't seem to care that the other cats died. I'm conflicted. Do you think adopting another playmate would help him? -- W.C., Eagan, MN

A: This is always a tough call. First, have Hunter checked out by your veterinarian, not only for disease but also (based on your saying he seems lost or lonely) for cognitive dysfunction (similar to Alzheimer's disease in people). Sometimes when profound changes occur in their lives, cats don't wear their emotions on their sleeves.

If Hunter checks out and is reasonably spry, consider adopting a pair of kittens. If you take in just one, the tyke might drive your seasoned cat crazy. Two kittens would have one another to play with. If you're lucky, Hunter might even join their play, but if not, watching them might be enriching. Note: Introduce any newcomer(s) to your existing cat very gradually.

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Q: Matilda, my one-year old Australian Shepherd, won't retrieve a tennis ball. She also has no interest in catching a Frisbee. I've even shown her a mirror - so she can see she's an Australian Shepherd who's supposed to like doing these things! Why isn't she catching on? --V.H., Tampa Bay, FL

A: Apparently your dog didn't read "The Australian Shepherd: Champion of Versatility" by Liz Palika (Howell Book House, New York, NY, 1995; $$29.95). Palika says, "At only a year old, many Australian Shepherds are still just silly and easily distracted."

She recommends taking a Frisbee disc, turning it upside down and using it as a food dish for Matilda. After a week, toss the disc. Matilda will likely want to follow the dish, and might just bring it back to you. Another strategy is to roll the disc on its side. Begin with tosses only a foot away, gradually extending the distance.

Palika's favorite technique is to borrow a friend's dog that's an old pro at retrieving balls or Frisbees. Your dog might actually learn by watching another dog. Palika, author of "Puppy Love" (Wiley Publishing, New York, NY, 2009; $24.99), says "The truth is that some individual herding dogs, even very smart dogs, might not want to ever bring back a ball or a Frisbee disc."

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Steve Dale welcomes questions/comments from readers. Although he can't answer all of them individually, he'll answer those of general interest in his column. Write to Steve at Tribune Media Services, 2225 Kenmore Ave., Suite 114, Buffalo, NY 14207. Send e-mail to PETWORLD(at)STEVE DALE.TV. Include your name, city and state. Steve's website is www.stevedalepetworld.com; he also hosts the nationally syndicated "Steve Dale's Pet World" and "The Pet Minute." He's also a contributing editor to USA Weekend.