My Pet World: What may look like a cat/dog tussle is probably just play
Q: I have a 10-month-old Bedlington Terrier and a Siamese cat. Our dog is intent on chasing the cat, and it's annoying. The cat is not afraid and sometimes encourages the dog. How can I stop this from happening? -- P.D., via cyberspace
A: Hmmm, annoying to whom? "Based on your description, the cat sounds like he's in control -- which is what cats like," says certified dog behavior consultant Liz Palika, of Oceanside, CA. "I suspect they're playing. One option is to do nothing, unless either the dog or cat has gotten hurt, or you feel one of the two might get hurt."
It seems you're annoyed by the behavior, which is perfectly fair, I suppose. You could distract your cat with an interactive toy, such as a fishing pole toy with fabric or feathers at the end or a laser light. (Note: Never shine the light into the cat's eyes; also periodically drop a treat on the "red bug," so the cat actually catches something.)
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Q: How do I find a pet sitter? We're looking to go away over Christmas. We usually take our three dogs with us on vacation, but this time we're leaving the country. We don't feel comfortable boarding them since they've never been boarded before. Any advice? -- A.C., St. Paul, MN
A: As for finding candidates to pet sit, Jessica Abernathy, president-elect of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters suggests two websites: www.petsitters.org, as well as Angie's List.
Before hiring anyone, have your pets meet the perspective sitter. If for some reason the pets don't take to the sitter, Abernathy says don't hesitate to trust their judgment (unless your pets distrust all strangers). She concedes that a handful of pets simply haven't taken to her. "And they're all Bulldogs!! I love Bulldogs. It breaks my heart, but I guess I just give off the wrong vibe to some Bulldogs," Abernathy says.
Also, decide if you want to go with a one-person operation, guaranteeing lots of individual attention, or hire through a larger company.
"There are pro's and con's for each," says Abernathy, based in Chicago.
She advises choosing someone who's insured and belongs to one of the national pet-sitting organizations, which demonstrates a commitment as a professional, and the willingness to pursue continuing education.
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