Watch Tip: How to Dispense Pet Advice

Posted on November 18th, 2012 by Trish Roman-Aquilino

Watch Tip LogoI recently came across an article on Dogster.com entitled, “Four Loaded Statements that Annoy Fellow Pet Owners,” and the gist of the article centered on how to avoid being a “preachy pet parent.”

The concept hit home, because through our Sunbear Squad Blog tips, we consistently advise animal lovers and pet parents on how to intervene and give advice to others on animal welfare topics.  But one thing we have never addressed is how to give that advice. Read the rest of this entry »

Watch Tip: New Cat Introductions

Posted on March 18th, 2012 by Anna Nirva

Watch Tip LogoIf you adopt an adult cat and you already have adult cats living in your home, manage the introduction process carefully to avoid fighting and eventually achieve harmony. Remember that cats are territorial animals and most will reject newcomer cats with extreme drama and noise. Follow these steps when introducing an adult, tame adoptive house cat to your home cat tribe. Your goal is “100% safe acceptance,” no clumps of fur found anywhere, no wounds of any kind, no emergency trips to the vet! If your cats actually become friends who sleep side by side, consider yourself lucky; it doesn’t happen often.

Consider adopting a cat who has lived with other cats to minimize the amount of adjustment time and effort needed.

1. Create a private room for the new resident.

  • Provide the shelter or current owner with two items of bedding (small blankets, towels, t-shirts) a day or two in advance of pickup, with a request that the bedding be placed in your new cat’s sleeping space as bedding. When you pick up your cat, pick up the  bedding too. Put the bedding in your cat’s travel crate. Read the rest of this entry »