My Pet World: Howling dog is probably NOT seeing ghosts
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Q: My hedgehog seems to enjoy sleeping with me, but I'm worried that I may crush her. Any advice? --C.H., Las Vegas, NV
A: Despite your hedgehog's apparent bond with you, I think you're right to be concerned. Rolling over the wrong way might mean the demise of your prickly friend.
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Q: We were sitting at dinner, and Marmalade began to meow. Then my husband meowed back a few times. Marmalade went crazy, I'd never seen her like this, and she actually attacked and bit my husband, then ran off screaming. Could he have said something in 'cat language' to offend her? -- S.C., Marietta, GA
A: It's not likely your husband's "meow" offended Marmaladet. However, I do wonder if your cat (especially if she's older) twisted the wrong way, it hurt, and your husband was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Another possibility could be a seizure or other neurological concern. If such behavior recurs, see your veterinarian.
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Q: On a walk, our dog, Payton, a male Shepherd/Collie mix, met up with two ladies with their female Miniature Schnauzer, Butch. I realize dogs don't know a male name from a female mane, but people laugh at Butch all the time. This is wrong, and I assume the dog has a complex about it. What do you think? -- S.H., Chicago, IL.
A: While people may smile or chuckle when they realize Butch is a female, it's generally harmless. However, I do feel dogs can feel demeaned if teasing too far. My advice for Butch's owners is to stay away from boorish, immature people. It's not Butch with the complex; it's people.
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Q: What can you do with a potty-mouthed bird? Bingo, our 16-year-old Amazon parrot, is a wonderful companion to our entire family. Our 14-year-old son has begun to use some bad language. We were tipped off when Bingo began to talk like a drunken sailor. I can deal with my son, but how do I deal with a bird who might shock my beloved Aunt Martha, who's a nun? -- S.J., Stillwater, OK
A: The most effective way to clean up Bingo's language is to refuse to pay any attention to him for saying a bad word. Gradually teach Bingo new words, and while you're at it, wildly reinforce his new vocabulary.
Replace each bad word with a similar-sounding but more acceptable word that you clearly repeat and use frequently. For example, you could teach your bird words like "truck" or "sit." You could even show the object, a truck, or sit in a chair, so there's a meaning attached.
While Bingo is a work in progress, perhaps Aunt Martha should keep her distance.
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