Editor, The Beacon
I think “do unto others as you would have them do unto you” actually applies to all pets and creatures. That is why I have been shocked lately at what is being sold in big box pet stores in the name of pet care. I refer to the bowls with spikes on the bottom to “slow down the fast eater,” large rigid plastic X’s with stiff spikes to “keep pets off the sofa or chairs.”
There are games to test a dog’s sense of smell, intelligence, patience? Really? Maybe these are fun for people, but why should our pets be subjected to food-retrieval games?
If you have a furry sofa, keep it covered with a washable blanket. We have three cats. I have two chairs that I cover with cotton hospital blankets unless I have company. Cheap painter’s canvas drop cloths make great throws; wash them first until the oily smell leaves.
Packing tape patted loosely onto cloth chairs at the edges where cats pick will end the picking. They won’t pick their claws through sticky tape and it will save your furniture.
And please do not declaw cats. It’s like cutting off the first joint of your finger. Declawing is illegal now in most states. It also has a psychological effect on cats.
Dogs should have leashes that attach at the shoulder, so they don’t get choked.
And adopt from the shelter. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Be kind.
Suze Peace
DeLand
