Got Questions About Our Furry, Feathered or Scaly Friends? We’ll Find Local Experts to Help

"We gave our kids a puppy this year and we all love her dearly. The only trouble is, our ten year-old Golden is now urinating all over the house. Our other dog died recently so we thought she’d be happy to have a new friend, but I guess we were wrong. What should we do?” Janice P, Fayetteville

Congratulations on your new puppy! First of all I would have your golden checked out by your veterinarian to be sure she doesn't have a physical problem. It isn't unusual for a dog to have a bladder inflammation, which might cause her to have accidents.

Secondly, when we get new puppies they take up so much of our time that we often don't spend as much time with the older ones; they may begin feeling a bit insecure and do things they haven't done in a very long time to get a little extra attention.

In addition, an older dog, while usually pretty good about putting up with a puppy's razor sharp teeth during play, will often growl to let the puppy know they are getting too rough. That is okay. However, we need to allow her to keep that warning to the puppy and not discipline her for it. She may feel she has fallen into disgrace for doing something she felt was needed. She will help the puppy learn good manners. It is never a good thing to scold a growl from any dog, anyway, as it takes away the warning.

Since puppies need lots of rest and the older ones need some peace and quiet, perhaps you could intervene by putting the puppy in his crate for a rest when play escalates to the point the puppy is getting too rough.

I believe you will see improvement soon by following these suggestions.

Anne Hudson, IAABC-certified dog trainer, Fun Pups

“My son is allergic to dander but he really wants a pet, so we’re thinking about getting him some kind of reptile. What would be a good choice?”—Peter N, Lovejoy

There are three types of reptiles, turtles, lizards and snakes, and they can all make great pets. These are my favorite picks for children:

Snakes—Ball pythons are docile and easy to handle; they don’t get too big and it’s easy to find food for them. They eat mice, either live or pre-killed from the pet store. It’s better to buy a captive-bred snake as they aren’t likely to suffer from parasites and they haven’t been stressed by capture, transportation and a change in living conditions; plus they’re used to eating pre-killed food. They are interesting and quite calming to watch.

Lizards—Bearded dragons are a good choice for kids of about 7 or older. They have a lot of personality but they’re very mellow and docile. They eat a variety of foods from crickets and mealworms to vegetables like summer squash and collard greens, although they need at least a couple of meat-based meals a week.

Turtles—These are just a little harder to take care of because, relatively speaking, they eat a lot and defecate a lot, but because they don’t move very fast they’re easier to handle! They’re vegetarian so they’re good if you’re squeamish. Russian tortoises are cheap and don’t get too big. They can harbor salmonella so it is important to wash your hands after you handle them. You can also get them tested for salmonella at your vet.

Most reptiles live a long time, anywhere from 7 to 50 years, so choose carefully before you make a commitment.

Remember too that it’s not just the cost of the pet—you’ll need a tank with a secure cover, reptile mulch, some kind of snug hiding place, a high perch for lizards, a heat lamp, and a water bowl. Reptiles don’t need immunizations but I like to give my reptiles calcium with vitamin D once a week—just like humans they need vitamin D in order to absorb calcium properly, and because they don’t get any direct sunlight they need a supplement. Low calcium in the blood can lead to a metabolic bone disorder.

You and your son should have a lot of fun with whichever type of reptile you choose. Good luck!

Glenn, reptile educator, My Reptile Guys

Got a pet question? Want to contribute your professional expertise? E-mail sallytreadwell@gmail.com