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The good news is, there are rear support wheelchairs for dogs that may extend Krypto's mobility and reduce his pain. I also once found an alternative veterinarian who gave my dog acupuncture treatments for hip dysplasia. It reduced pain and extended his mobility -- and his life -- for six more months.

The decision on when to let a pet go is by far the most difficult decision every pet parent will make. Sadly, I don't think the decision ever gets any easier, so trust your gut. Look at your dog's quality of life and watch for a sudden loss of appetite or disinterest in participating in life as signs it may be time to let him go.

Dear Cathy,

Our 15-year-old male cat has started pulling tufts of fur from his legs with his teeth. He pulled fur from a two-inch spot. Any suggestions? -- Mike, Tucson, AZ

Dear Mike,

Poor guy! Cats may pull out fur because they itch. Do you use a monthly flea preventative? Sometimes, people don't treat their indoor cats, but they still can get fleas.

Most often though, the cat is an over-groomer. This is typically an anxiety-based behavior that results in a cat pulling, chewing, or excessively grooming their fur, leaving bald spots on their bodies, especially on their abdomen and legs. Grooming is a behavior that relaxes cats, so if they are stressed or anxious about something, they will groom more often and with much more force.

While there are over-the-counter calming supplements for cats, over-grooming can also be the result of pain. I suggest visiting your veterinarian to determine which it is, so you can properly treat his condition.

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(Cathy M. Rosenthal is a longtime animal advocate, author, columnist and pet expert who has more than 25 years in the animal welfare field. Send your pet questions, stories and tips to cathy@petpundit.com. Please include your name, city, and state. You can follow her @cathymrosenthal.)

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