Resolve to spend more time with pets

#Middlebury #NewYearsResolutions

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: One of my top resolutions is to spend more time with my Australian shepherd, Ash. I feel that I haven’t given him the time or attention he needs since he arrived six months ago. – Barry in White Plains, New York

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My New Year’s pet resolution is to find a companion for my senior cat, who is 14 years old. He isn’t the most “snuggly” cat, but he was very social with my neighbor’s cat, who visited all the time until he passed away earlier this year. – Janine S., via email

DEAR BARRY AND JANINE: These resolutions are pretty fantastic. I’m glad you’re both looking for ways to keep your pets from being lonely.

Australian shepherds are, like most herding dogs, notoriously energetic and can get into all sorts of mischief if they get bored. I hope you’ll spend a lot of that time working with Ash on basic behavior training. And once he responds to that, consider doing some agility training with him – a great way to burn off more of that energy.

Janine, cats may seem aloof quite often, but they are actually very social animals. Still, finding a companion for your cat may take some time. A trial visit of a few days can determine whether a second cat is a good fit for your senior cat. If they don’t get along well from the start – that probably won’t improve over time. Meanwhile, spend more time with him so that he has your companionship.

Readers, what New Year’s resolutions have you made for your pet? Let me know at ask@pawscorner.com or on Twitter @PawsCorner.

(c) 2018 King Features Synd., Inc.