Step 2: Bring that mat out every day twice a day and place it in a central location. You can use an elevated surface like a washer, dryer, or counter. We choose the floor because our cat has arthritis.     Step 2    Step 3: Reinforce your cat for choosing to interact with the mat. You can use a clicker for this and a high value treat. You may have to start by clicking and treating your cat when they look at the mat, then when they step on the mat, then when they sit on the mat. If you are

Introducing a new dog to the pets of your home can be a little tricky at first. You want your current pets and your new pet to live comfortably with everyone. Keep in mind that realistic expectations are important. Some dogs are not capable of getting along with other dogs. Some dogs have such a strong reaction to smaller animals that their instinct to chase and catch will override their ability to stay calm (this is known as a strong prey drive). The key to ensuring good first interactions and blending the new family together is to separate everyone initially,

We’re excited to introduce you to a new series of books by Dr. Jason Nicholas, founder of Preventive Vet. Dr. Nicholas, better known as “Dr. J,” a very well-respected veterinarian and expert in pet safety.  He has traveled the world to share his knowledge and raise awareness about pet illness and emergency prevention. In 2011 he established Preventive Vet as a type of “one-stop shop” for online resources where pet owners can get reliable information from a variety of veterinary specialists, ranging from emergency practitioners to board-certified surgeons, oncologists, and even behaviorists. Dreamstime60 Preventive Vet’s mission is to help change the

We are excited to offer new feline handling webinars by noted animal behaviorist Alana Stevenson. Alana has been helping dog and cat owners resolve their pets’ behavioral problems since early 2003. She is certified in Low Stress Handling for Dogs and Cats, is on the Cat-Friendly Practice Advisory Council for the American Association of Feline Practitioners, and is the author of two books on humane dog training and behavior modificatio: The Right Way the First Time: Teaching Your Dog Kindly & Humanely (2007) and Training Your Dog the Humane Way: Simple Teaching Tips for Resolving Problem Behaviors and Raising a Happy Dog (2011). Dr. Sally Foote recently

This type of restraint is called the “cowl technique.” A pillowcase, flannel baby blanket, or thin hand towel is rolled into a tube and wrapped quickly around the neck like a doughnut to hold the head. The point of restraint is like scruffing but does not create the association of pain with hands or handling.

This month’s topic is one that comes often, and it is frequently asked by clients at the clinic where I work. The question is, “How do I get my cat to go in the carrier easier?”