2 minute read
Petiquette
Dr. Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa IQUETTEPET
I am having guests for the weekend, and I am a proud cat owner. What things do I need to think about concerning my cats before my guests arrive?
If your cat has 100% free reign of the house (she walks on countertops, furniture, laps, kitchen tables, etc.), you might want to consider retraining her before you have company or keeping her confined during the visit. Many guests are uncomfortable seeing a kitty trot across the counter. Cats can be retrained in a variety of ways, but you might want to seek professional advice. If you do not want to retrain your cat, keeping her in a bedroom or another secluded location during your guest visits is probably best.
I love to take my dogs on a walk every morning. For some reason, they love to run around in my neighbor’s yard. My neighbor says it is ok, but I get the feeling she is annoyed. What should I do?
Walks with our pets are usually so much fun for both pets and people. First, make sure you are walking your dogs on a leash. Many communities have Leash Laws, and you want to make sure you are abiding by them. Secondly, it is always a good idea not to let your dogs run around on other people’s property. While your neighbor may say it is ok, just to be polite, she may actually not appreciate it.
We are having a party at my home next month, and my pets love company. Is there anything I should do with my pets before guests arrive?
For pets participating in festivities, proper pet etiquette is determined by the guests. For guests who enjoy being around pets, it is ok to have your social pets in attendance. However, for guests who do not enjoy being around pets, it is best to have your pets secluded during the party. You will also want to ensure your pets are okay with all the social activities. If people and noises bother your pets, it is best to keep them away from the party.
