Tag: First Batch

How Do You Fix Cat Behavior Problems?

Is your cat aggressive, urinating outside the box, and exhibiting other behaviors of which you’re not a fan? “How do you fix cat behavior problems?” is a question asked by many pet owners. While it may seem impossible to change the conduct of your feline family members, there are often simple options, such as adding an extra litter box, which will make a difference. If not, a professional can usually help you get your misbehaving cat back on track.

 Common Problems. Simple Solutions. 

Some of the most common complaints from cat owners include:

Urinating in Inappropriate Places 

If your cat has started urinating outside the box, try adding an extra litter box. As a general rule, you should have at least one box per cat plus one additional one. Even if you only have one cat, adding a box may help the problem. You should also be sure that you are scooping your cat’s litter box at least once per day and replacing litter monthly. If this behavior started suddenly, it is likely due to a medical condition such as a urinary tract infection or potentially a blockage. See the vet right away. Usually once the infection clears up, the behavior will stop. 

Scratching Furniture 

Cats are going to scratch, so it’s up to you to provide plenty of appropriate options. Put a scratching post in each area of the house where your cat spends time. If they don’t seem interested, sprinkle some catnip, or use catnip spray, to entice them to use the scratching posts rather than your favorite sofa. You can also put soft vinyl nail caps on your cat if they continue to scratch furniture.

Aggressive Behavior 

If the aggressive behavior began suddenly, there is a good chance the cause is a medical issue. When cats are in pain, it often manifests as aggression, so a trip to the vet should be the first order of business. If the vet doesn’t find anything wrong, she may be able to refer you to an animal behaviorist. Introducing a new pet can also bring about sudden aggression. Proper introductions can go a long way in helping the two cats get off on the right paw.

Partying All Night 

If it seems like your cat waits until your REM cycle is fully realized to start embarking on loud antics, you’ll need to find a solution that helps to redirect his playtime to more appropriate hours. Try feeding the biggest meal just before bedtime, as cats like to sleep after a good dinner. Also, make sure they have plenty of toys to keep them active throughout the day, and try to engage in play with them, so they will be ready for a nap at night.

If your cat is behaving badly, a solution can usually be found. If the home remedies don’t work, turn to your vet for guidance. In most cases, you’ll be able to curb the behavior you don’t like. 

Is It Okay To Leave A Dog Alone Overnight?

If your dog is trained and relaxed when left alone, it may be okay to leave your dog alone overnight. It is important that if you are gone for an extended period of time that your dog has the ability to go to the bathroom as needed. Generally speaking, your pet shouldn’t be alone for more than 4-6 hours without a break. It your dog experiences anxiety when left alone or is not trained to spend time alone in the house, it is advisable to hire a pet sitter to stay with your dog.

Tips For Leaving A Dog Overnight With A Sitter 

Spending the night away from your pup for the first time can be a little anxiety-inducing. Try these tips to make both you and your dog feel more comfortable:  

  • Meet with the Dog Sitter in Advance: This is especially important if your dog is nervous around strangers. Have the dog sitter come to your house while you are there to meet your dog. This will make your dog more comfortable when the sitter comes to stay and give you peace of mind that your dog will be in good hands.
  • Tire Him Out: One of the best things you can do before leaving your dog is to exercise him. A nice run or brisk walk before you leave will tucker him out, reduce anxiety and make him more likely to snooze while you’re gone.
  • Provide Fun Toys: Treat puzzles and chew toys will help pass the time and keep him stimulated.    

Leaving your dog overnight may be an option for very well-behaved and relaxed dogs. If this doesn’t sound like your pup, you should have someone come over to spend the night with your dog. This will not only give you peace of mind, but also bring comfort to your pup while you’re away. 

How much does it cost to surrender a Border Collie?

The cost to surrender a border collie will typically be between $50 and $150, but many factors will dictate the cost. The location of the facility, as well as the type of facility, play a role. So does the age of the pet.

Additionally, you may find that some shelters or rescues will charge less per pet for those who have to surrender an entire litter. Some rescues may not charge any fees when a dog has been surrendered. However, these are rare.

The best way to determine how much you’ll have to pay when you surrender your border collie is by getting in touch with the organization. They’ll likely have information on their website that will let you know the fees, along with the steps that you need to take when you’re surrendering your dog.

Why Do You Need to Surrender Your Border Collie?

When you contact a facility and try to set up an appointment to drop off your dog, they’ll likely ask several questions. They want to get a better sense of your dog, and they want to know why you’re surrendering her. Some of the most common reasons that people surrender their pets include financial problems, behavioral issues, an upcoming move, and not being able to spend enough time with their dog.

Often, the facility will have some suggestions and some resources they can provide that could help with these issues. For example, they could put you in touch with local doggy daycare facilities or with trainers. Ultimately, they want you to find ways that you can keep your border collie rather than surrendering them since it is a better option for the pet.

Rehoming Rather than Surrendering

If you’re unable to keep your border collie, consider the benefits of rehoming instead of surrendering him. When you rehome, you’ll not have to pay a surrendering fee for starters. However, it also means that you’ll be giving your dog a better life since you’ll help to find them a new home where they’ll be loved.

Rehoming can be done on your own. However, when you put your dog up for adoption, you need to be very careful about who gets him. To ensure people have an interest in your dog as a pet and not for nefarious purposes, always charge a rehoming fee. This ensures that they have a financial interest in your dog. Be sure to check references and learn as much as you can about the people who will be adopting your dog.

To make things easier, you might want to consider using the Rehome platform from Adopt-a-Pet.com. It’s free for owners. This site lets you create a thorough bio of your border collie, letting the potential adopters know more about him. It also lets you add photos and videos. Those who are interested in adopting will fill out an application, which you can then review to ensure you’re sending your border collie to a wonderful, loving home.

What is the Fastest Way to Rehome a Maltese?

The fastest way to rehome a Maltese is to find someone you know personally who wants to adopt him. However, it’s not the only way– you could also find people online through pet adoption sites that may be interested. It’s important that you understand more about the available options, so you can not only find a fast home for your dog, but also the best home.

Someone You Know

Naturally, the fastest way to rehome is to give the dog to someone you know, such as a relative or a friend. If they’ve been looking to adopt a dog, they could be interested in helping you when you need to give up yours. In these cases, you could rehome in a day or less if needed. Just make sure that you provide all the dog’s belongings and that you’re ready to say goodbye.

Once you give your dog to someone you know, resist the temptation to visit right away. If you’re visiting, this is only going to serve to confuse your dog. They won’t be able to adapt to their new home and new owner. Give it plenty of time before you head over to the house.

Rehoming Online

The Internet has made rehoming much easier, but it could also be dangerous if you’re not careful. Stay away from the classified ad sites when you’re giving up your Maltese. You never know if someone was actively looking for a dog on those sites, or if they just happened upon your ad. They may not have the means or capability to care for him properly.

Instead, you should opt for a pet adoption site like Rehome. This is a peer-to-peer solution that makes connecting with potential adopters easy. You’ll start by completing a profile for your dog with a bio, pictures, and video. The bio should be detailed enough that the potential adopters can learn all the most essential information about your Maltese. This lets them know whether it’s the right dog for them or not.

Those who are looking to adopt will fill out an application, which you can then review. This method gives you plenty of control over who gets to adopt your dog.

Make Sure It’s the Right Fit

Regardless of whether you’re going to be giving your dog to someone you know, or someone you find online, you need to make sure they’re right for your Maltese. No one knows your dog better than you do, and that means you’ll have a better idea of who to choose.

For example, you might have a Maltese that loves children and gets along well with them. However, he might not like cats. You wouldn’t want him to go to a home that has a cat. Maybe he has a special diet and will only eat certain things. Will the person you’re considering be capable of providing what your dog needs?

Even though you may have a relative that is interested in adopting, if it’s not the best choice for the dog, don’t choose them.

How Do I Surrender My Shih Tzu?

If you’re going to surrender your Shih Tzu, you’ll need to get in touch with a shelter or a rescue first. Most organizations will not allow you to walk into their facilities to drop off your dog without an appointment. They have procedures and protocols that need to be met first, and the first step is for you to learn more about the facility. Keep in mind that while there are similarities between shelters and rescues, they’re quite different.

Surrendering to Shelters and Rescues

A shelter can house your dog for a certain amount of time before they need to make room for other dogs. The amount of time they can hold your Shih Tzu will vary based on a range of factors. Some of those factors include temperament and age. Different locations will have different policies, as well.

Rescues are another option for surrendering. These facilities can keep your Shih Tzu until he’s adopted. However, because rescues are usually smaller and privately funded, they tend to have lower capacity for new dogs. You should still get in touch with any rescues in your area to be sure.

Regardless of whether you’ll be bringing your dog to a shelter or a rescue, you need to understand their procedures. Different facilities have different rules, but you’ll find that they all want you to make an appointment. They don’t want someone to just show up with their dog.

When you talk with the facility, they’ll let you know the paperwork that you need, and they’ll let you know about surrender fees. The cost of surrendering your dog varies based on factors like the facility and the location. Generally, it will cost between $50 and $150.

Once you surrender your dog to the facility, you no longer have responsibility for him. However, this also means that you no longer have rights to him. While these organizations try their best to care for the animals in their facilities, you might want to consider some of the other options.

Alternatives to Surrendering Your Shih Tzu

You may find the best option is to put your dog up for adoption online. Sites like Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.com make it easy for you to create a profile for your dog that gives potential adopters all of the information they need. You can add information about your Shih Tzu’s personality and quirks, along with any issues he might have. You can also add photos and images.

Rehome then lets you review the adoption applications for your dog. You can determine which of these applicants will be best-suited to adopt your Shih Tzu. This provides you with more control, so you can be sure he’s going to a loving family. Best of all, it’s free for you to use, and the adopters will only pay a small rehoming fee that goes right back into helping more animals get adopted.

An even easier option would be to find someone that you already know who wants to adopt a dog. Maybe you have a family member or a friend that would like to adopt your Shih Tzu. Always take your time to find the best solution for your dog.

What Can I Spray On Carpets To Keep Dogs From Peeing?

There are both commercial and DIY sprays that can help stop your dog from peeing on the carpet. Of course, not all will be effective with every dog, and some dogs will continue to urinate on the carpet no matter what you spray. In those cases, you may find that retraining your dog is a better option.

Commercial and DIY Sprays 

A quick internet search will yield all kinds of options for DIY sprays including everything from lemon juice and water to essential oils. Unfortunately, some of the suggestions include items that could be harmful or irritating to your pet, such as ammonia and certain essential oils. That’s why it’s a good idea to ask your vet before exposing your pet to any ingredients you’re not sure about.

Another option is commercial sprays. Some quality commercial sprays work in two ways:

  1. They contain enzymes that completely eliminate the urine odor and
  2. They contain ingredients, such as cinnamon and lemongrass, which discourage further urination in that spot. 

Those commercial sprays are often quite effective not just because of the ingredients the dogs find unpleasant, but also because they eliminate the urine scent. If that scent remains, dogs are much more likely to urinate there again. It can even attract your other household pets to urinate in that spot.

That’s why, no matter what kind of spray you choose, it’s important to thoroughly clean any accidents and use an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate the scent. It can be difficult to do this with carpet since the odor can become trapped in the fibers. If the rug has been saturated, you may have to replace it to fully get rid of the scent.

What about Retraining? 

If your formerly housebroken dog has started urinating in the house, retraining may be an option, but first you need to figure out if there is a medical reason for the behavior. Diabetes, kidney disease, and bladder stones are examples of medical conditions that can cause inappropriate urination.

Once a medical condition has been ruled out, try going back to the beginning with housetraining including feeding on a regular schedule and letting the dog out every 30 minutes. Remember that it can take up to six months to fully housetrain a dog.

Also worth noting: If the accidents only happen when you’re at work—especially if you work long days—it could be because your pet has trouble controlling his bladder for that long. Consider hiring a dog walker, installing a doggy door, or asking a neighbor to let the dog out at some point during the day. 

How Can I Calm My Dog’s Anxiety Naturally?

You can calm your dog’s anxiety naturally by ensuring your dog gets plenty of exercise, extra playtime, and massages. How well the natural remedies work will depend on the severity of the anxiety and will vary by dog.

Natural Anxiety Remedies

Whether your dog suffers from separation anxiety or behavioral anxiety, finding a solution that calms your pet is a must. No good pet owner wants to see their dog suffer, but reluctance to start your dog on prescription anxiety medication is understandable. If you prefer a natural way to calm your dog’s anxiety, here are a few things to try:

  • Exercise: Make sure your pet is getting plenty of exercise. Take him on at least two 30-minute walks each day. If he’s an active pup, make sure he has the opportunity to run off some energy every day as well.
  • Keep His Mind Busy: Dogs get bored, and that can contribute to anxiety. Keep him occupied by committing to teach him a new trick each week. This not only provides mental stimulation, but it’s also a chance to spend more quality time together.
  • Play Calming Music: Music can be as calming to dogs as it is to humans. Try playing some classical music when you’re away.
  • Calming Products: Calming collars, shirts, and diffusers provide relief for many pets. These products can be found at most pet supply stores. 

Other options, such as oils and massages are also natural alternatives to medicine. If none of these methods work for your pet, talk to an animal behaviorist who may have additional solutions to try before medication becomes necessary. 

Is It Cruel To Crate A Dog At Night?

It is not cruel to crate a dog at night as long as he is properly crate trained, enjoys being in his crate, has had plenty of out-of-crate time during the day, and was given a potty break before going to sleep.

How Long Should I Crate My Dog?  

As a rule of thumb, your dog should not be crated for more than 8 hours without a break. Older dogs or puppies will need more frequent breaks. Also, they shouldn’t be spending the majority of the time in a crate. If you crate your dog during the day and then again at night, consider doggy daycare or a pet sitter as an alternative for the daytime. This way, your pup won’t be spending all his time crated.

A Safe Space For Your Pet 

Crating is useful for training because it draws on your dog’s natural instinct to be in a den. For that reason, if your dog is properly crate trained, the crate will be a comfortable place that he likes spending time and where he feels safe. 

Another option once your dog is trained to act properly in your home is leaving the crate door open so he can come and go as he likes. This allows him to have his comfortable “den” without being forcibly confined for most of the day.

It is not cruel to crate your dog at night. In fact, many dogs happily enter their crate at night and enjoy the safety the space provides. 

How Much Does It Cost To Surrender A Cat?

The cost to surrender a cat varies from organization to organization, but it is typically between $30-$100. If you are considering surrendering your cat to a shelter or rescue, you may want to consider rehoming your cat through a no-cost service and that may also cause your pet less stress.

What alternatives do I have to surrendering a cat I can’t keep?

Rather than bringing your cat to a rescue or shelter, you can post him online to help find a new home! With this option, both you and your cat can remain in the comfort of your home while you search for someone to adopt your cat.

Begin With Your Network

The first step to take is asking people you know if they would like to adopt your cat. Call your friends and family, ask your neighbors, or post to social media to see if anyone is interested in adopting your cat. This option will give you peace of mind, because your cat will be with someone you know and trust.

Create A Profile On Rehome

If no one in your network can adopt your cat, it’s time to make a profile on Rehome! This peer-to-peer service helps you to find a suitable new home for your cat by posting them on Adopt-a-Pet.com for millions of possible adopters to see. Making a profile is quick, simple, and there is no cost. Once you fill out all necessary information, your cat’s profile will be available for people to view.

What happens after I post my cat to Rehome?

Shortly after posting your cat to Rehome, you may see questions coming in. If you signed up for mobile alerts, anytime someone asks a question or applies for your cat, you will be notified, keeping you in the loop. When someone asks a question, you can respond rehome_legacyly so other potential adopters can see the answer as well.

You will also begin to receive applications for your cat. This can sometimes be overwhelming, so you’ll have access to pointers on how to pick the strongest applicants and how to avoid red flags.

Once you’ve narrowed down your applications, it’s time to meet the applicant in person. You’ll also have access to tips on how to set up a successful and safe in-person meeting. From here, you’ll choose a new family for your cat and finalize the adoption. You can sign and access a contract through the Rehome portal as well as transfer all medical records.  

How Do You Stop A Dog From Digging Holes?

You can stop your dog from digging holes by training him to not dig and to create physical barriers that will stop your dog from digging in certain areas. When your dog is a digger, it’s more than just annoying—it can also be dangerous. No pet owner wants to think about what could happen if their dog managed to dig his way out from under a fence, so it’s important to learn how to stop the behavior.

Why Do Dogs Dig?   

Understanding why your dog is digging is the first step to stopping the behavior. There are several reasons your dog may spend his time digging holes in your yard. These include:

It’s Fun

Active dogs in particular use digging as a way to keep busy and make the most of their time outdoors. Other reasons your pet may dig for entertainment include:

  • They are left outside alone for long periods.
  • They are of a breed that digs by instinct (terriers are one example).
  • They need some toys to keep them occupied.

    Fixes:

    • Take your dogs on at least two long walks per day.
    • Provide toys that engage them physically and mentally. 
    • Spend more time each day playing with them.
    • Give your dog his own “digging pit” in your backyard. That way, he can have his fun digging in a place that isn’t harmful to your landscape.

      They’re Hunting

      If your dog tends to dig in the same spot, he may be hunting prey that lives in your yard.

      Fixes:

      • Call a humane pest control specialist to search for and then safely and humanely remove burrowing animals from your yard.

      To Cool Off 

      If you live in a warm climate, your dog may be digging himself a spot where he can cool off. This may be the case if:

      • Your dog does not have proper shelter or other protection from the sun.
      • Your dog sits or lies in the holes he creates.

      Fixes:

      • Don’t leave your pet outside for extended periods—especially when it’s hot out.
      • If you must leave him outside, make sure he has proper shelter that provides relief from the heat.

      Plotting Their Escape 

      It’s easy to tell if this is why your dog digs as the burrowing will be confined the fence line. Since this can lead to harm for your pet, it’s important to stop the digging as quickly as possible. Rather than relying on behavior modification alone, you’ll want to place physical barriers.

      Fixes:

      • Burying the fence one to two feet below ground.
      • Burying chicken wire along the length of the fence.
      • Partially burying rocks along your fence line.

      Until such precautions are taken, never leave your dog alone in the yard. You can also work on behavior modification with a dog that uses digging to escape, but you’ll want a barrier in place in the meantime.

      Take your yard back by implementing the suggestions above. If you’re still not able to curb the digging, call on the services of an animal behaviorist.