Ask Ashley: Great Plains SPCA

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I moved into my family’s home recently and brought my cat of three years with me. My family has a dog, who has been friendly with cats in the past, however, my cat had never encountered a dog before. When I first arrived, I had my cat in a carrier and the dog followed me into my room, shoving her muzzle into the kennel. How should I go about introducing them in a safe way? – Christine A.

A slow introduction between dogs and cats is the safest solution. Take your time before letting them meet one another. I recommend letting them get used to each other’s smells, noises, and seeing one another before letting them meet. You can swap out blankets from one another for them to get desensitized to each other, letting them see each other at a safe distance without interacting, and letting them hear one another before meeting is key. Pay attention to their behaviors and heed their warnings, if any. If they seem scared, frustrated, or are displaying any undesirable behaviors, slow the process. Being able to redirect your dog’s attention from the cat with a treat or command will also ensure a safer introduction. Take it slow and watch for their cues. – Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA

My dog, Fiona, bolts out the front door when I open it and I am worried she may get hurt or even run off if I can’t get this resolved quickly. What do you recommend I do? – Hazel G.

Waiting at the door is one of the most important commands you can teach your pet because it helps ensure her safety, as well as the public’s. You can practice this at any door in your home leading into another room. Ask Fiona to wait when you’re at the door, slowly open the door and if she moves at all, quickly shut the door. If she stays in place, say, “come” and allow her to enter. If she is too quick and bolts immediately through the threshold, use a leash to aid you. You may use treats to hold her attention, however, access to outside is usually reward enough for her to want to pay attention. Practice this every time Fiona goes outside, and she will quickly learn the routine. – Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA

My cat normally covers her stools when she uses the litterbox, but recently she has stopped doing this, resulting in a foul odor. Why has my cat decided to not cover her poo just now? – Peggy J.

Some cats never cover their stool but if your cat did at one time then suddenly stopped, this could be an indication of stress. Ask yourself what has changed in the home since this development. Do you have a new cat? Did you move? Did someone move in? This could be a sign of nervousness or competition with other pets nearby. This is an instinct which results in the odor not being masked by the litter to ward off any potential danger. There are calming products you can use to help her relax, but understanding why the change is key and can help you solve this problem. – Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA

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FEATURED DOG – MURPHY

Calling all dog owners who’d like a new buddy for their very best friend! I’m Murphy, and I just know that I can fill that role, so if you need me, you know where to find me. I do love to play with other dogs. I’m still young and exuberant and full of energy, but I’m doing so well in playgroups with other doggies here. I love to be petted and getting lots of attention makes me so happy. I know “sit” and “paw”, and I’m just a sweet guy who has lost his way in this world and needs a new buddy or a family to give me my confidence back. I may be shy, but I’m absolutely adorable! Please come and meet me. Be ready to fall in love and take me home. Email adoptions@greatplainsspca.org for more info!

Email askashley@greatplainsspca.org for a chance to have your pet question answered here in KC Parent magazine.

Great Plains SPCA is an independent 501(c)(3) no-kill shelter serving approximately 6,000 animals annually in the Johnson County community. As Kansas City’s premium family shelter, we continue to support the seven municipalities with which we are contracted including Overland Park, Leawood, Lenexa, Shawnee, Lake Quivira, Johnson County Parks and Recreation, and unincorporated Johnson County.

Great Plains SPCA

5424 Antioch Drive Merriam, KS 66202

(913) 831-7722(SPCA)

https://www.greatplainsspca.org