Not long ago I answered a question from a couple whose four cats were sick, all with similar symptoms. The couple had guessed the cats had worms, and they wanted to know how soon before an over-the-counter medication could be re-administered. A veterinarian hadn't been consulted because finances were tight.

I advised them to ask around shelters and rescue groups for suggestions on finding a veterinarian who'd work with the couple on costs, and to take at least one of the cats in for a diagnosis. Without knowing what the problem was, I argued, worming the cats was a waste of time and money, and likely wasn't helping them.

Fair enough, and no complaints on that part of the advice. But then I suggested that when time finally took one or two of the cats, the couple set their total number of pets at what they could afford to care for. It's better to care properly for one or two cats, I wrote, than to offer inadequate care to four.

For this reasoning, I heard from quite a few readers. Most pointed out that the couple were indeed caring for their cats -- the animals were fed, neutered and out of the cold. The care they got was "better than nothing," argued one reader, who chided me for not being kinder to a couple struggling to keep as many pets as possible.

Here, I have to make a distinction between household pets and feral cats. I know many people who are caretakers for colonies of wild, free-roaming cats. These often-controversial efforts are about keeping the number of cats down and alleviating as much suffering as possible. For these essentially wild animals, neutering and feeding is often about the best you can do.

But once you take an animal into your home as a pet, I believe you must be prepared to provide decent care. That includes shelter and sustenance, as well as the basics of preventive care, such as vaccines and heartworm medication.

The responsibility of caring for a pet must also include working with a veterinarian when the animal is sick.

If you can afford to provide adequate care for only one pet, you shouldn't choose less-than-minimal care for more. Where do you draw the line? I've no doubt those people who end up overwhelmed by a house stuffed to the rafters with cats started out with just a handful. Most people who end up with dozens or even hundreds of starving, sick pets -- in the humane community they're called "hoarders" -- are firm in their convictions that they "love" their animals.

But love is not enough, and neither are good intentions.

I would like everyone who wants a pet to be able to enjoy the companionship of an animal. I wouldn't be writing this column if I didn't believe that people benefit from having animals in their lives -- an idea backed up by countless studies.

But I also believe the road goes both ways, and it's not right to take without giving. We have a responsibility to provide for those animals we take into our lives. One pet or a dozen, we must resist the temptation that substandard care is better than nothing at all.

Reasonable people can disagree on what those minimal standards of care should be. But we should all agree that denying veterinary attention to a suffering pet in your care is not acceptable.

SIDEBAR

Keeping pets in can save money

In the veterinarian's shorthand, it's HBC (hit by car). These accidents are as common as they are expensive, and often, as deadly.

One of the best ways to keep veterinary costs down is also the easiest: Prevent accidents by keeping cats inside and by containing dogs with fences and leashes. Keeping pets from roaming will also protect them against poisoning (accidental or deliberate) and from fights with other animals. When finances are tight -- and even when they're not -- keeping pets restrained is probably the one biggest factor you can control that will spare you from paying for expensive veterinary care.

Accidents can cost hundreds or even thousands to treat, but of course it's not just about the money. Protecting your pet from injury is one way to help you keep your pet's companionship for years to come.

Q&A

No shortage of adult cats

Q: We are looking for two kittens to adopt. We are having trouble finding what we want. We don't want to pay breeder prices, and the shelter doesn't seem to have much selection. We are looking for two kittens from the same litter. We would like black-and-white "tuxedo" markings on one of them. Do you have any suggestions? -- A.N., via e-mail

A: Prime kitten season is a few months away yet, peaking in late summer. By August most shelters will be swimming in kittens, with seemingly endless choices when it comes to coat type and markings. Too many kittens, really, because each year many more kittens will be born than can possibly be adopted. (Which is one reason why the constant effort of humane and animal-rescue groups to spay and neuter pets is so important.)

At this point, you have two main choices: Adopt a pair of adult cats, or wait until the shelter selection is larger later this year if you want two kittens from the same litter. If you don't mind cats who are not siblings, you could also adopt an adult cat now and a kitten or cat later.

The choice is yours, of course. But my advice is to seriously consider adopting a bonded pair of adult cats. Shelters always have a difficult time placing adult cats, and placing bonded pairs is harder still. But since you want to end up with two siblings, adopting adult littermates who are already comfortable with each other seems to me to be the perfect solution. If you're really interested in adopting siblings, I have no doubt you can find that in a bonded pair of adult cats. Just check around with area shelters and rescue groups.

How dry I am

Q: Our house is on the dry side even though we run a humidifier in winter. My cat's skin has been extremely dry. Is there something I can do to eliminate this massive white dander he is scratching out? -- P.T., via e-mail

A: I wouldn't be so certain the low humidity in your house is causing the problem. After all, cats are descended from desert-dwelling creatures, and low humidity alone shouldn't cause a massive amount of flakiness.

See your veterinarian to determine what's causing your pet's skin to be so flaky.

By the way, other pets do have a problem with the dry air of the modern home, most notably birds. Many species of pet parrots originally came from hot, humid environments. For these, dry air presents a problem and may contribute to feather-picking. That's why parrots need to be offered frequent opportunities to get damp, such as by being misted or being allowed to bathe.

Jumping pup

Q: Would you pass another idea along to the owners of the dog who jumps the baby gate?

There's no need to pay for an extra-high gate, which can be hard to find. They could do as we did: Get two cheapo gates exactly alike and fasten one to the top of the other.

My husband used metal bands and tightened them in several places. It worked perfectly, and the gate is eye-high to me (I'm 5 feet, 5 inches). We've used this strategy successfully for many years now. -- S.S., via e-mail

Never underestimate the ability of pet lovers to come up with all sorts of solutions for all kinds of challenges!

Other ideas from readers for keeping high-jumping little dogs out of trouble included canine exercise pens with lids, baby playpens modified with soft mesh material across the top and, as mentioned in an earlier column, an interior screen door. Thanks for all the suggestions!

(Do you have a pet question? Send it to petconnection@gmail.com.)

THE SCOOP

Lively terriers remain popular

Terriers are tireless, plucky and stylish, equally comfortable in city, suburban or rural homes. Even small terriers are generally sturdy enough to be a child's pet, but their take-charge attitude can be a problem if they are not socialized and trained. If allowed to rule the roost, some of these dynamos can become little despots.

Other common behavior problems come straight from the terrier's background: They dig and they bark. Both are important skills for a dog trying to rid a place of vermin, but not so appreciated in a suburban back yard. Some terriers may get a little glassy-eyed and drooly over the presence of rodents in the house -- you may call hamsters, gerbils, rats and mice "pets," but you'll never convince a terrier they belong. Terriers may also be less than civil to other dogs.

The most popular terrier in the American Kennel Club rankings is the miniature schnauzer (or the Yorkshire terrier, if you count the breed as a terrier rather than a toy dog). Other popular terriers include the West Highland white, Scottish and Jack Russell (also known as Parson Russell), and the cairn. Terrier owners need a high tolerance for mischief and a good sense of humor, because their dogs will test both.

PET BUY

Pendant contains unique material

A display of jewelry caught my eye at a recent pet show. The pendants were pretty enough to draw me to the booth, where the saleswoman explained that they were more than eye-catching: Each of them contained a sample of an animal's DNA. You couldn't prove it by me, so I'll take the company's word for it.

The Life Jewel pendant is meant to be a wearable memorial to a cherished pet, with the animal's DNA spun onto a sterling silver thread and then suspended into the buyer's choice of 12 colors of resin.

The company says the DNA isn't preserved in a way suitable for potential cloning and isn't meant to be anything more than a way to keep the memory of a pet alive. DNA samples can be taken from a blood or hair sample, or a cheek swab.

The Life Jewel pendant is $55 from www.perpetua.us, or 800-584-2434.

PET Rx

Don't overlook care of teeth, gums in pets

Veterinary associations have made February their month to remind people that pets need healthy teeth, too.

Your veterinarian should check your pet's mouth, teeth and gums as part of an annual physical and make recommendations based on what he or she finds there. For many pets, the next step will be a complete dentistry under anesthesia. The procedure takes 45 minutes to an hour. It involves not only cleaning and polishing the teeth, but also checking for and treating broken or rotting teeth, cavities, abscesses and periodontal disease.

Today's anesthetics are dramatically safer than those of even a few years ago, making the danger and pain of untreated dental problems the bigger risk to health, even with older pets.

After the problems are treated, at-home care can keep things in good shape. Here are some tips:

-- Brush or wipe regularly. Use a toothpaste designed for dogs and cats a couple of times a week at least, although daily is better. Don't use toothpaste made for people, because animals don't know how to rinse and spit. Pet toothpastes contain enzymes that help dissolve plaque and can be swallowed. They also have a flavor that pets appreciate.

-- Offer teeth-cleaning toys and consider teeth-cleaning food. Some pet-food companies now offer kibble with a mild abrasive texture to help keep teeth clean, or with ingredients that help keep plaque from forming. Ask your vet about these if tartar buildup is a chronic problem for your pet.

Good dental health will also go a long way toward preventing bad breath in pets. But, more important, it will help with an animal's overall health and comfort.

(Pet Rx is provided by the Veterinary Information Network (VIN.com), an online service for veterinary professionals. More information can be found at www.veterinarypartner.com.)

BY THE NUMBERS

My puppy Valentine

It seems some people are not dreaming of getting a puppy as a Valentine's Day gift, but rather wishing their human mates were more like a dog. And their dogs are helping them look for mates! According to the American Kennel Club's recent survey:

-- 25 percent of women polled wished men were in a perennially good mood, like a dog

-- 15 percent of men polled wished women were just as happy to stay home as go out on the town

-- 58 percent of men said a puppy is a foolproof way of meeting women in a park

-- 46 percent of women said they'd stop and talk to anyone with a cute puppy

PETS ON THE WEB

Gecko fans find plenty to love

The Global Gecko Association's Web site (www.gekkota.com) offers care information, photographs, links and merchandise to any fan of these cute little reptiles.

The information can be a little hard to find because many of the listings use the scientific names of the species, not the common ones. If you're looking for a picture of the leopard gecko, you're going to need to know that the scientific name is Eublepharis macularius in order to find it.

The GGA offers a generous selection of useful links and classifieds to help gecko lovers find what they need. For youngsters with a scientific leaning, the site is both fun and educational. There's enough information here to help any young reptile fan with a school report.

Membership in the GGA can be purchased on the site, and it comes with subscriptions to a gecko journal and newsletter, and discounts on other publications.

Gina Spadafori is the award-winning author of "Dogs for Dummies," "Cats for Dummies" and "Birds for Dummies." She is also affiliated with the Veterinary Information Network Inc., an international online service for veterinary professionals. Write to her in care of this newspaper, or send e-mail to petconnection@gmail.com. You can also read her frequently updated Web log or view her column archives at www.spadafori.com.

4520 Main St., Kansas City, Mo. 64111; (816) 932-6600

People flip over puppies but, to me, a well-loved older dog is one of the most beautiful creatures on earth. An older dog has a nobleness about him, a look in the eyes that speaks of years of the special love that only a pet can give -- trusting, nonjudgmental and unwaveringly true.

Your dog's health as he ages is not entirely in your control, but you can have a real impact on his attitude. Your dog doesn't know he's getting older. His gray hairs concern him not, nor does he worry about the other visible effects of time -- the thickening of his body, the thinning of his limbs. He doesn't count the number of times he can fetch a ball before tiring and compare that to his performance when he was a young dog in his prime.

A dog lives in the now. Just as he doesn't reflect on his past, he can't imagine his future. Your dog takes his cues from you. When you're upbeat, encouraging and loving, he'll be at his best no matter his age.

This time can be a special one for both of you, and it's up to you to make the most of it.

As your dog ages, increase the frequency and diminish the intensity of his exercise. Instead of taking your dog to the park once a week to chase tennis balls until he's exhausted, take him for a long walk daily. If your dog is having problems with physical activity, talk to your veterinarian. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications may help, as may supplements such as glucosamine or alternative treatments such as acupuncture.

Your dog has no real sense of shame or embarrassment, so he suffers no loss of face if you come up with some ideas to make his life a little easier. I once bought a wagon so an older dog with bad legs could go to the park -- the best part was the harness that let the younger dog pull the load! Truly, the number of ways you can give your oldster a break is limited only by your imagination. Here are a few tips to get you thinking:

-- Beds. Think soft. Think cushioned. Think low. Think heated. Your dog will thank you for all of these thoughts, especially in cold weather.

-- Clothes. Older dogs, like older people, have a more difficult time maintaining their body temperature. This problem is even more pronounced in slender, short-coated breeds like the greyhound or whippet. So check out the sweater selection at your local pet-supply store.

-- Dishes. Raised food and water dishes are helpful to tall dogs of any age, but they are especially easy on the back of an oldster. You can find them at pet-supply stores, or you can make your own booster for your dog's dishes.

-- Ramps and steps. If your dogs are allowed on the couch and the bed, consider buying or building steps to help the dog who can no longer make it in one jump. You wouldn't want to watch TV without your dog at your side, would you? A permanent ramp going down the back-porch step or a slide-out one to help your dog into the car will also be appreciated.

While you're making household adjustments, don't forget to make an appointment for a senior dog checkup. Your veterinarian may recommend some diagnostic tests in addition to a physical examination -- typically bloodwork and an X-ray -- to spot problems early, or to establish a baseline of what's normal for your dog. You should also consider having your dog's teeth attended to, because gum infections and mouth pain will severely affect the comfort and health of your dog.

The senior dog checkup is also a good time to determine if your dog's slowing down means his diet will need to change to take excess weight off his joints.

Helping to keep your older dog healthy and fit will mean his senior years will be happier and more comfortable. And that will be good news for you both.

SIDEBAR

Should a new puppy wait?

Having an old dog makes some people long for a puppy. If you're among them, you want to be as sure as you can be that your older dog will welcome the new addition.

For some older dogs, a puppy is a big boost to the senior's enthusiasm for life. For others, a puppy's energy and attention are enough to make an older dog want to leave home.

In general, older dogs who are still fit and full of life will probably get the most out of a puppy; elderly or severely debilitated dogs will enjoy it least.

If you do add a puppy, don't let your older dog overextend himself, and put the puppy in a crate or behind a baby-gate now and then to give your oldster a break.

Q&A

Tiny greyhounds hard to contain

Q: I just read the inquiry in your column about pet gates from the owner of an 8-month-old Italian greyhound. Would you pass along some invaluable information?

Italian greyhounds can get into more mischief (intentionally and accidentally) than any breed I know of. Unfortunately, some of their antics result in emergency trips to the vet. As for the baby gates, I'd pass on them. These guys can both jump and climb. They have been known to climb 6-foot-tall cyclone fences, and they can easily climb baby gates.

When our Italian greyhound was just a pup, we had the best luck with using an exercise pen with a canvas top that was lashed on well. That's the only thing that worked with our little Houdini.

I still have to keep a close eye on our dog because she is a kitchen counter surfer. She can jump on the kitchen counters with ease like a cat. As a result, we must take care to put away knives and foods, and to make certain the burners are cool before we leave the room. It's a challenge!

There is a Web site called IG Post (www.igpost.com) that offers guidance, support and much more to Italian greyhound owners. I know that everyone thinks that his or her breed is special, but these guys are truly unique in their abilities and needs. I don't think we would have made it through puppyhood without the IG Post. -- S.J., via e-mail

A: Thanks for the information. I heard from a few other Italian greyhound fans as well, including one who suggested mounting a screen door inside to keep a pup from wandering where he shouldn't.

It's true that Italian greyhounds are extremely athletic, fast and agile, and also very delicate. Broken legs are a real problem in this breed, which is why these animals really need owners who'll look out for them. Like their larger relatives the whippet and the greyhound, Italian greyhounds also have difficulty staying warm. In the winter, a dog sweater on any of these breeds is a kindness.

"The Italian Greyhound Nuts and Bolts Book" by Patricia Kelly is a great addition to the library of anyone with one of these dogs. I got a copy as a door prize at a conference a few years ago and was impressed with the thoroughness of this self-published book. You can buy it for $16 from Dogwise (www.dogwise.com).

Babies and cats

Q: My son and daughter-in-law are expecting their first baby in September. They have an indoor, declawed cat.

I have always heard that a cat can suck a baby's breath away because of the milk smell. Is that an old wives' tale? I've never owned a cat, but it seems logical to me. What can they do to keep their cat? I suggested putting a screen door on the baby's room. -- S.C., via e-mail

A: It's an old wives' tale. Cats do not suck the breath from babies. The idea that they do probably stems from cats being around when babies were found dead from what was likely sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS. The idea that the cat was responsible seemed logical then, too, but we know otherwise today.

That said, it's always a good idea to keep an eye on young children and pets. The screen door idea is actually an excellent one that I've suggested before. It allows your son and daughter-in-law to keep their pet out of the nursery when one of them is not in the room, while allowing their pet to get used to the sounds and smells of the infant.

(Do you have a pet question? Send it to petconnection@gmail.com.)

PET TIP

Publications packed with great articles

Every year the Whole Dog Journal comes out with a list of its approved dry dog foods, products that offer high-grade ingredients and natural preservatives. The list grows longer every year, as small companies pop up to satisfy the market for high-end kibble, and more established pet-food manufacturers offer products aimed at this niche.

This year's list is the heart of the February issue. The selections, along with the publication's rationale for choosing them, make for thoughtful reading for any dog lover.

The Whole Dog Journal is $20 for 13 issues, or $16 for the electronic edition only (www.wholedogjournal.com, 800-424-7887).

Another notable publication out with a new issue is the House Rabbit Journal, the quarterly newsletter of the House Rabbit Society.

The organization seeks to raise awareness of proper care for pet rabbits, including education about their suitability as pets for adults. The HRS also runs a rabbits-only shelter in Richmond, Calif.

The journal is an unusually eclectic pet publication. Its current issue has a piece on rabbit-proofing the house along with an article on the stereotypes promulgated by rabbit images in the popular media. It also has success stories from successful adoptions, articles on training, and a commentary against the growing popularity of rabbit meat.

The House Rabbit Journal comes with an $18 annual membership to the House Rabbit Society (www.rabbit.org, 510-970-7575).

PET Rx

Don't worry over a broken feather

Blood feathers, or pinfeathers, are feathers just starting to grow out, covered with waxy sheaths and equipped with a healthy blood supply to support growth.

A broken pinfeather is rarely a life-threatening emergency in an otherwise healthy bird, contrary to popular opinion. If one of these feathers gets accidentally broken, it will most likely clot on its own.

Birds with chronic health problems -- usually involving the liver -- may have clotting problems, and these birds may be predisposed to bleeding problems. Talk to your bird's veterinarian if you have a concern.

Blood feathers are sensitive and seem to itch as they mature, so many birds love to have their incoming feathers scratched by their owners. If you kink or hurt one of these developing feathers, though, you may get a protest from your pet.

(Pet Rx is provided by the Veterinary Information Network (VIN.com), an online service for veterinary professionals. More information can be found at www.veterinarypartner.com.)

PET TIP

More exercise may help curtail a digging dog

Are you frustrated with your dog's digging? It's essential to understand what's at the root of the problem before you can come up with a fair approach to minimizing the damage.

Digging is natural for dogs, with any number of triggers driving the activity. Among them:

-- Wanderlust. Some dogs, especially unneutered males, have a strong desire to dig their way out of the yard.

-- Prey drive. Subterranean wildlife is irresistible to some dogs, especially to terriers or terrier mixes.

-- Need for shelter. A well-dug den can keep a dog cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

-- Recreation. Digging is just plain fun.

-- Excess energy and boredom. This combination is either directly responsible for or is a contributing factor to most canine behavior problems.

Neutering can greatly reduce the desire to wander, so a trip to the veterinarian should be the first item on your list. If wildlife's a problem, contact your local agricultural extension for tips on how to control pests. And make sure your pet has the shelter he needs to stay comfortable no matter the weather.

Lack of exercise and, again, sheer boredom are often the biggest contributors to this behavior problem. If you make it impossible for your dog to dig -- say by cooping him up in a concrete-floored kennel run -- he may switch to another unwanted behavior such as nonstop barking or self-mutilation. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise every day.

With your dog's needs covered, design your yard for compromise. Make a less-visible part of the yard a dog-friendly free-dig zone, and limit your pet to that area when you can't be there to supervise. Discourage digging in off-limit areas by filling in holes and covering them with chicken wire and large rocks.

BY THE NUMBERS

Biting the Big Apple

The top dogs will soon be in New York City for the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, Feb. 13 and 14. All 165 breeds and varieties recognized by the American Kennel Club will be represented at the show. The top 10 entries by breed (note: counts for dachshunds and poodles include all three varieties within the breeds):

Dachshund

Poodle

Samoyed

Cavalier King Charles spaniel

Golden retrievers

Rhodesian ridgeback

Australian shepherd

Chinese crested

Havanese

French bulldog

PETS ON THE WEB

Helping kids love caring for pets

If the How to Love Your Dog Web site (www.loveyourdog.com) seems as if it were put together by someone who loves kids, dogs and helping kids learn how to care for their dogs, it's with good reason. The author, Janet Wall, is a longtime educator who, along with her two therapy dogs, volunteers in a pediatric oncology unit.

Her love of children and animals comes through on every page, along with commonsense advice for children on dog care and training. The most popular page, according to Wall, is the one on trick-training, always fun for kids and dogs alike. More than a dozen tricks are listed, along with instructional video to help understand the steps in training.

For those children who are begging for a dog, Wall helps them to understand that not every home is ready for a dog, and why.

Gina Spadafori is the award-winning author of "Dogs for Dummies," "Cats for Dummies" and "Birds for Dummies." She is also affiliated with the Veterinary Information Network Inc., an international online service for veterinary professionals. Write to her in care of this newspaper, or send e-mail to petconnection@gmail.com. You can also read her frequently updated Web log or view her column archives at www.spadafori.com.

4520 Main St., Kansas City, Mo. 64111; (816) 932-6600

Last week, I offered a short quiz for cat lovers. In the interest of fairness, I've pulled out a few questions for dog lovers. How well do you know our canine companions?

1. Which of these dogs is "made in America"?

(a) The toy fox terrier

(b) The Australian shepherd

(c) Chesapeake Bay retriever

(d) All of them

2. What were Labradoodles first bred for?

(a) Service dogs

(b) Circus dogs

(c) Their funny-sounding name

(d) As a source of curly fur for yarn

3. Which of these statements is true:

(a) A dog wagging his tail will not bite.

(b) A barking dog will not bite.

(c) A dog who's afraid of you will not bite

(d) Any dog is capable of biting.

4. The earliest a puppy can be spayed or neutered is:

(a) 9 months

(b) 8 weeks

(c) 6 months

(d) 5 months

5. The Labrador retriever has been the most popular American Kennel Club breed of dog for more than a decade. Which breed was the Labrador's predecessor at the top of the list?

(a) Golden retriever

(b) Cocker spaniel

(c) Poodle

(d) Boxer

6. Define "dewclaws":

(a) Special pads that help detect moisture on the grass

(b) Vestigial toes found on the legs of some dogs

(c) An operation to remove claws

(d) A type of nail-trimmer

7. Which of these is not a "sighthound"?

(a) Bloodhound

(b) Whippet

(c) Irish wolfhound

(d) Greyhound

8. How many teeth does a dog normally have?

(a) 36

(b) 42

(c) 28

(d) 46

9. If a dog has a cold, wet nose, his temperature is normal. True or false?

10. "Terriers" got their names from:

(a) Their delight in tearing things to bits

(b) Their ability to dig after prey or follow their prey underground

(c) Their tenacious nature

(d) Their small size

ANSWERS

1. (d) According to the American Kennel Club, breeds developed in the United States include: The Alaskan malamute, American Eskimo dog, American foxhound, American water spaniel, American Staffordshire terrier, Australian shepherd, black and tan coonhound, Boston terrier, Chesapeake Bay retriever, Plott hound and toy fox terrier. There are other American breeds not recognized by the AKC, including the Boykin spaniel, various coonhounds and the Catahoula leopard dog. (You read that right: The Australian shepherd in an American dog.)

2. (a) Labradoodles, a cross between a poodle (usually a standard) and a Labrador retriever, were originally bred in Australia in hopes of developing a service dog with the low-allergy coat of the poodle. The Labradoodle kicked off the current fashion of creatively named mixed-breed dogs, the most currently "hot" of which is the puggle, a mix of beagle and pug.

3. (d) Animal experts warn that any dog is capable of biting. Stiff, upright posture and an erect, wagging tail can be signs of aggression. Other dogs may bite if in pain or frightened.

4. (b) Although most dogs are neutered just before sexual maturity, puppies can safely altered as early as 8 weeks of age. Neutering before sexual maturity can help with behavior problems in male dogs and health problems in females. (And help reduce pet overpopulation, of course!)

5. (c) The poodle -- toy, miniature and standard combined -- was once America's top dog. Cockers have also enjoyed a long run at the top.

6. (b) Dewclaws are vestigial toes found up the inside of a dog's leg. Not all dogs have them, and some who are born with them have them removed. Some dogs, like the Great Pyrenees, have double dewclaws on their hind legs. Special care must be taken to keep the nails on dewclaws trimmed, because they don't touch the ground so do not get ground down at all.

7. (a) The bloodhound is a "scenthound" -- a dog who hunts by following a scent trail. Sighthounds follow movement with their eyes and run down their quarry with their speed.

8. (b) Around 3 months of age, the 28 puppy teeth will start falling out, to be replaced with 42 permanent teeth. Puppy teeth come in at 8 weeks and are usually gone by the age of 6 months to 8 months.

9. False. A dog's temperature is normal when it's 101 degrees Fahrenheit to 102.5 F, as determined by a rectal thermometer.

10. (b) The name "terrier" is derived from "terra," or "earth," and reflects these dogs' ability to follow their prey underground.

How'd you do? If you got them all right, you really know your dogs. If you got fewer than half right, don't despair. You know your dog still loves you.

Q&A

Cheap option on heartworm?

Q: I agree with you that drugs to prevent heartworm are essential for any dog living in the South. But I am surprised you didn't offer people on limited incomes the obvious solution. Ivermectin, the ingredient in dog heartworm pills, is a common over-the-counter livestock medicine. Pennies a dose! -- M.Y., via e-mail

A: While it's true that Ivermectin is given to livestock as well as dogs, I don't recommend that anyone give medication of any kind to pets before checking with a veterinarian.

If you wish to ensure the safe use of any form of Ivermectin in your pet, ask your veterinarian for advice. Although the safety record on Ivermectin is good, the drug could be deadly if given to a dog already infested with heartworms. Testing for heartworms is a must before preventive medication is started. An additional concern: Some breeds -- notably collies -- have problems with the drug.

Incidentally, heartworm disease is not just a problem in the Southern United States -- it's been found in all states. No matter where you live, it's a pretty good bet your dog should be on heartworm prevention. Cats, too, can become infested with heartworms.

Talk to your veterinarian about how to prevent heartworm disease in your pets.

Key to a problem

Q: My 85-pound Labrador retriever swallowed a key that is part of the remote to lock the car. He has shown no problems, and we have not found anything in his feces. I called the emergency vet when it happened on Christmas Day, and she said just to keep an eye on him. What are your thoughts? -- M.A., via e-mail

A: If your dog is eating, drinking and eliminating normally, there's probably nothing to worry about. In fact, you may have already missed the key's re-emergence, despite checking for it. Follow up with your regular veterinarian, though. If the key is still in there, it may be possible to remove it without surgery through the use of endoscopy.

Labradors are well-known in veterinary offices for their eagerness to consume just about anything that's not nailed down -- and even some things that are. Socks, underwear, rocks, keys, toys, cell phones -- if it can fit in the mouth, there's a Labrador who will swallow it. The best cure for this is preventive, especially with young dogs. Keep anything that can be swallowed picked up and put out of reach of your dog.

While many swallowed objects will pass through without causing problems, others can be deadly. If a pet vomits, loses interest in eating or drinking or otherwise seems "off" after ingesting a foreign body, you'll need your veterinarian's help.

Checking for fat

Q: I have a Lab-shepherd mix. He weighs in at 86 pounds to 90 pounds, but I wouldn't say he's fat. A German shepherd by nature is a big dog, so depending on which characteristics a mixed breed ends up with will mean a lot. I think if the dog's height and length are more in line with a German shepherd than a Lab, then expect more weight. What do you think? -- T.B., via e-mail

A: It doesn't really matter what the mix is. It's pretty easy to tell when a dog's at the right weight, and it's determined by physical attributes, not by a scale.

Although ribs should not be visible, they should be able to be easily felt under the skin, with a small -- repeat, small! -- padding of flesh over them. The dog should also have a definite tuck-up of a waist when viewed from the side or a tuck-in from above. If you're not sure, ask your veterinarian. Once the healthy weight for a dog is determined, you can check his weight every so often, along with his physical appearance, to see how he is doing.

(Do you have a pet question? Send it to petconnection@gmail.com.)

PET Rx

Cat tails can and do break

Image: fluffy tail (Universal/Richard Schmidt)

Caption: A tail is more than beautiful: It's one of the ways cats communicate.

Cats get their tails broken in many ways. A child might pull a tail, or a tail might get caught in a closing door. A tail can get bitten during a cat fight and, of course, automobile accidents can easily lead to dislocated or broken tails. One might think a tail break would involve an obvious external wound, but usually this is not the case. Instead, nerve damage is the usual tip-off.

Cats with broken tails might show such symptoms as:

-- A tail that drags or is never held high.

-- Involuntary dribbling of urine, or litter box problems.

-- Lack of coordination of the rear legs.

An X-ray will often confirm a break in the tail or a dislocation, although in some cases the tail bones are intact. How permanent the problems are depends largely on whether the nerves have been overstretched or actually torn. In many cases, if a trauma is severe enough to break the tail, there may be additional injuries as well.

Your veterinarian will evaluate the severity of your cat's condition and discuss treatment options.

(Pet Rx is provided by the Veterinary Information Network (VIN.com), an online service for veterinary professionals. More information can be found at www.veterinarypartner.com.)

PET TIP

Indoor cats can enjoy a stroll

Indoor cats can be trained to enjoy an outing outdoors on leash, and for this treat, you need a harness. (Because cat collars are made to enable cats to slip out of them, don't use a collar with a leash.)

Choose a harness designed for cats, not for dogs, in a figure-eight design. As collars do, harnesses come in many colors, with lightweight leashes to match.

Don't expect your cat to heel like a dog. Walking a cat really consists of encouraging your pet to explore, with you following, offering plenty of praise and maybe a treat or two.

Never leave your cat tethered and unattended, which leaves him vulnerable to attack or to a terrifying time of hanging suspended from his harness should he try to get over a fence.

THE SCOOP

Good groomer a necessity for many dogs

For dogs such as poodles, bichons and many terriers, finding a good groomer is almost a necessity, because the coat-maintenance involved with these breeds is beyond the ability or interest of most pet lovers.

For many other dogs, such as collies, spaniels and the like, regular attention from a professional groomer can make at-home coat maintenance such as combing and brushing more manageable, and can keep dogs looking and smelling better.

About the only dogs who don't benefit much from a groomer's touch are shorthaired pets, whose coats are easy enough for the average person to maintain.

Start your groomer search by asking friends, neighbors and co-workers for recommendations. Your dog's veterinarian or trainer may also be able to refer you to one.

Avoid groomers who hold your pet for much longer than the time it takes to groom him. A good groomer should need only two to four hours, at most, for a routine wash and clip, unless your dog is matted and tangled. If the groomer wants your dog dropped off in the morning and can't say when he'll be done, find another groomer. There's no reason for your dog to hang out all day when he's not being worked on.

You have a role to play, too. Don't wait so long between appointments that your dog is full of mats and then expect the groomer to be able to work them out. Listen to your groomer: If she says clipping the coat away is the best way to go, you're better off following her advice than subjecting your dog to hours of fur-pulling.

Make sure, too, that the groomer is clear on what you expect your dog to look like when she's done if clipping is involved. And if you don't want bows, nail polish and perfume, don't forget to speak up beforehand.

BY THE NUMBERS

Top dogs for 2005

America loves retrievers, with Labradors and goldens coming in at the top spots in just-released ranking of American Kennel Club registrations for 2005. Small dogs continue to rise in popularity, with more than half of the dogs in the top 10 of the diminutive variety.

1. Labrador retriever

2. Golden retriever

3. Yorkshire terrier

4. German shepherd

5. Beagle

6. Dachshund

7. Boxer

8. Poodle

9. Shih tzu

10. Miniature schnauzer

PETS ON THE WEB

Behavior advice on problem birds

Not that long ago most pet parrots were wild-caught, and these frightened, confused birds were often poor companions. The parrot earned a reputation as a pet who would just as soon bite you as look at you.

From a parrot's point of view, the biting made sense. They were reacting in the only way they knew how to protect themselves in an environment they found unfamiliar and often frightening.

Today's pet parrots are mostly hand-raised and socialized to understand that people won't hurt them. But biting can still be a problem, only now it's often the sign of a relationship that has gotten off-track.

Parrot behavior expert Liz Wilson knows a lot about what makes parrots bite, and shares information on how to stop the behavior as part of an excellent series of articles on the Up at Six Web site (www.upatsix.com/liz).

Gina Spadafori is the award-winning author of "Dogs for Dummies," "Cats for Dummies" and "Birds for Dummies." She is also affiliated with the Veterinary Information Network Inc., an international online service for veterinary professionals. Write to her in care of this newspaper, or send e-mail to petconnection@gmail.com. You can also read her frequently updated Web log or view her column archives at www.spadafori.com.

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