Universal Press Syndicate

Is there anything a dog can't use his nose to figure out? Dogs have long been used to sniff out escaped cons and missing children (think bloodhounds), dinner (think spaniels, retrievers and hounds), and even truffles (think poodles).

But in recent years, trainers have come up with all kinds of new ways to use a dog's extraordinary sense of smell. Here are a few you maybe knew -- and a few more we bet you did not:

-- Drugs. Dogs can be trained to sniff out all kinds of illegal drugs, finding them not only on people but also in massive cargo containers, long-haul trucks and school lockers.

-- Plant matter. Since fresh fruits and vegetables can bring insects and diseases into the country that have the potential to cause great damage to agriculture, dogs are used to detect the foodstuffs in the luggage of people coming through customs. Dogs are also used to sniff out invasive weeds in fields, so the plants can be eradicated before they take hold.

-- Insects. Termites? No problem. Dogs are also being used to detect the resurgence of bedbugs in big cities.

-- Mold. It's not just the mold that bedevils homeowners, but also the mold that puts the vines at wineries at risk from the spread of disease.

-- Explosives. Meetings of high public officials would be hard to imagine without the diligent work of bomb-sniffing dogs. To take it a bit further, dogs are even being taught to sniff out cell phones that could be used to detonate a bomb.

-- Cows in heat. A lot of money depends on being able to artificially inseminate a cow without wasting time guessing when she's ready. While a bull could tell, he's not always available, as his contribution usually arrives on the scene frozen. A dog can tell when the cow is most fertile -- although it's a good bet the dog couldn't care less.

-- Cancer. While cancer-detection is still in the trial stage, it's looking pretty promising that dogs can spot a malignancy. Some day your doctor may order up a "lab test" and mean Labrador!

-- Chemicals. Dogs have been known to look for items as varied as mercury and the components of potentially pirated DVDs.

While most of us tend to think scent work is the near-exclusive province of a handful of breeds -- bloodhounds, German shepherds and maybe a Labrador retriever here and there -- in fact, a wide range of breeds and mixes is trained to detect various scents. Because of their fine noses and friendly dispositions, beagles are used to work airports by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and any manner of mixed breeds -- lucky dogs pulled from shelters -- have been used for other kinds of detection work.

Because all dogs have keen noses filled with many more scent receptors than we humans have, a dog's future doing nose work relies more on enthusiasm, reliability and trainability than on the canine common ability to tell one scent from another.

SIDEBAR

Wrinkles for a reason

Humans have about 5 million scent receptors in their noses; dogs have about 200 million. Dogs can detect tiny levels of odors, even a few parts per billion. Their noses are also uniquely designed to draw air samples through -- for the most part.

You're not going to see a dog with a pushed-in muzzle, like a pug, tracking someone on "America's Most Wanted." That's because when breeding for a short nose -- and a face more like ours -- we've reduced the real estate available for scent receptors in these breeds.

On the other end of the scale, a dog developed for tracking, such as the bloodhound, has a sense of smell so keen, the results of his work are admissible in a court of law. In addition to a long, deep muzzle, the bloodhound has ears to sweep scent from the ground and skin folds to hold scents around the face. -- Dr. Marty Becker

Q&A

Stress may be behind licking

Q: My cat has developed a licking problem. Her companion (a male cat) died in January, and her licking started in late March or early April. She has become very territorial, and she fights with any cats who try to enter her yard. I was wondering if her problem has developed because she is now responsible for the yard rather than her male companion. She doesn't want to play and will no longer sit in my lap. Her whole personality has changed. Help! -- S.H., via e-mail

A: Cats are often stressed by changes in their environments. Losing a companion cat is one such change. Her male companion gave her companionship and a "safety in numbers" comfort that is no longer there. The other cat may have also taken the lead in chasing off cat invaders, a job that now rests heavily on her feline shoulders.

Regardless of what has changed for her socially or environmentally, this new licking behavior is likely triggered by stress. She may be experiencing a general underlying anxiety related to change, or she may be reeling from a bad experience with another cat. It's impossible to know for sure because she can't tell us what she's thinking or feeling.

Skin problems flare up with stress in pets and in people -- think about those human skin flare-ups of eczema, hives or acne. In pets, these problems may be best addressed by both an animal behaviorist and veterinary dermatologist.

Before concluding that her licking problem is stress, though, we must consider another explanation. Pet behavior changes are often the first signs of an underlying medical condition. She may have a hidden physical pain or discomfort missed during a typical physical exam. You did not say where she is licking, and that's a clue that may point to a medical issue.

If she has not undergone a complete diagnostic profile that includes a thorough exam, plus blood, urine, stool and imaging tests, please arrange these with your veterinarian.

Once medical conditions are ruled out, getting a behavioral diagnosis is your next step. You start by completing a comprehensive behavioral history to be analyzed by a veterinary behaviorist or veterinarian with a special interest in behavior. It's impossible to narrow down the probable causes of her licking without this comprehensive approach to her behavior.

Based on her behavioral profile, a behavior-modification plan can be developed that's combined, perhaps, with medications to lower her anxiety so that she can relearn calm, relaxed behaviors and stop licking. -- Susan and Dr. Rolan Tripp

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

ABOUT PET CONNECTION

Pet Connection is produced by a team of pet-care experts headed by "Good Morning America" veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker and award-winning journalist Gina Spadafori. The two are also the authors of several best-selling pet-care books.

On PetConnection.com there's more information on pets and their care, reviews of products, books and "dog cars," and a weekly drawing for pet-care prizes. Contact Pet Connection in care of this newspaper by sending e-mail to petconnection@gmail.com or visiting PetConnection.com.

PET BUZZ

Creative mixes mean big bucks

-- In an Internet poll of more than 2,200 people, sponsored by Eukanuba and Gatsby Publications, 15 breeds of dogs were selected as the most beautiful (out of those currently recognized the American Kennel Club).

Cuties in small sizes included the Yorkshire terrier, Shetland sheepdog, Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Maltese and Pomeranian. In a medium size, it was the Siberian husky, border collie, Australian shepherd, Samoyed and bulldog. Large-breed beauties include the golden retriever, German shepherd, Labrador retriever, Alaskan malamute and boxer.

-- By 2025, the country will be short by about 15,000 veterinarians. That includes not only those health-care professionals who care for our pets, but also those who protect the nation's food supply.

-- All but three U.S. presidents have chosen to have house pets on the White House grounds. The pet-less presidents are James K. Polk (11th president), Franklin Pierce (14th) and Chester A. Arthur (21st). Guess they didn't know the common wisdom perfectly expressed by Harry S Truman (33rd): "If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog."

-- It used to be that a golden retriever poodle mix puppy meant the neighbor's golden hopped a fence while Fifi was in heat. But today these canine cocktails, such as the "goldendoodle," are commanding big bucks. According to the American Association of Retired Persons, here are some of the hottest mixes and what they'll set you back:

Peagle (Pekingese plus beagle) $800-$1,100; puggle (pug plus beagle) $600-$1,600; Chiweenie (Chihuahua plus dachshund) $400-$850; Labradoodle (Labrador retriever plus poodle) $1,200-$1,600; cockalier (cocker spaniel plus Cavalier King Charles spaniel) $1,200-$1,400; Faux Frenchbo (Boston terrier plus French bulldog) $750-$1,000.

Or just skip the high prices and wait for these dogs to turn up at your shelter, where along with all the other all-American originals -- aka "mutts" (and purebreds, too) -- you'll pay around $100, including neutering and shots in many cases. -- Dr. Marty Becker

PET BUY

An easy way up for a big dog

Getting a large dog in and out of a tall vehicle like today's popular SUVs can be a challenge, especially as age takes the spring out of a dog's rear legs -- and the strength out of an owner's back.

The Otto Step has been invented to make travel easier for all. The 18-inch-square step slides easily into a standard trailer hitch and offers a halfway point to make loading in a lot easier. Made of sturdy high-impact plastic, the lightweight platform (less than 6 pounds) features a non-skid surface. An optional pickup extension is available.

The product is named after inventor Tim Ridzik's dog, a half St. Bernard, half Newfoundland who weighs 170 pounds. The Otto Step is $60 plus shipping from www.ottostep.com or 1-888-311-OTTO (6886).

BREED TYPE

Parson packs a lot into a little body

The Parson Russell terrier -- more commonly known as the Jack Russell -- is nobody's idea of a layabout. And that's bad news for those thinking they're getting a dog as cute and well-mannered as the TV and movie dogs who helped to drive the breed's popularity.

These hard-driving little dogs are loving, loyal and very smart. But when they're bored and don't get enough exercise, they can be destructive of property or engage in other non-desired behaviors. They dig, they bark, and many of them are extremely intolerant of smaller pets, especially those of the rodent variety.

So why are these dogs so popular? When living with people who understand them, who keep their minds and bodies exercised, who train them and work them constantly, and who set limits and gently but firmly enforce them, the Jack Russell is an outstanding companion. They are always full of energy, and their joyfulness is infectious.

The Jack Russell Terrier Club of America (www.terrier.com) is the older club for the breed in the United States, fiercely independent of the American Kennel Club and its Parson Russell Terrier Club of America (www.prtaa.org).

Both clubs oversee a breed that's supposed to be a working dog, a small terrier (less than 20 pounds), with a smooth or wiry coat, and with any combination of black and tan on a mostly white base coat. The JRTCA has a nifty interactive profiler that rates a prospective buyer's suitability for owning one of these lively dogs.

For people who understand the breed and are willing to work to keep a working terrier happy, there's no better dog in the world. For anyone else, though, if you're looking for a lazy dog, or an easygoing dog for beginners, you're better off without this high-energy breed. -- Gina Spadafori

PETS BY THE NUMBERS

Persians stay popular

The Persian has long been one of the most popular of registered pedigreed cats. In 2006, the Top 10 breeds were:

1. Persian

2. Maine coon

3. Exotic

4. Siamese

5. Rag doll

6. Abyssinian

7. Birman

8. American shorthair

9. Oriental

10. Sphynx

Source: Cat Fanciers' Association

ON GOOD BEHAVIOR

How to choose a good kitten

Keep these tips in mind when choosing a shelter kitten:

-- Beware the kitten who shows signs of illness, such as lethargy, runny nose, pot belly or dull coat. You maybe be taking home heartbreak, or at least a big veterinary bill.

-- Look for a kitten who approaches the front of the kennel and seems to like people. Watch for eye contact, attempts to rub against you or kneading. The best sign of all is when you pick up the kitten and the purr machine starts as the kitten settles in for as long as you want to hold him or her.

-- Although playfulness is cute from a kitten, beware of the kitten who is in constant motion, does not welcome being held and bats at you for fun. This one could become a handful!

(Animal behavior experts Susan and Dr. Rolan Tripp are the authors of "On Good Behavior." For more information, visit their Web site at AnimalBehavior.net.)

Pet Connection is produced by a team of team of pet-care experts headed by "Good Morning America" veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker and award-winning journalist Gina Spadafori. The two are also the authors of several best-selling pet-care books. Contact Pet Connection in care of this newspaper, by sending e-mail to petconnection@gmail.com or by visiting PetConnection.com.

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

Universal Press Syndicate

The last few weeks in my home have been magical, in a way only other cat lovers can understand.

I've watched a tiny kitten come into a home already filled -- to the brim, some might say -- with four boisterous dogs, a raucous prankster of a parrot and an extremely bossy rabbit. Within days, she went from overwhelmed to relaxed to ruling, and now the entire family is under her spell. She grooms and is groomed by the oldest dog, plays with the youngest, and sleeps with the others. She watches the parrot with fascination but has learned (with a sharp nip from him) that he is most decidedly not for lunch. And the rabbit? They've reached a peace agreement and completely ignore each other.

As for me, I'm smitten with my kitten.

Having a kitten in my home, though, has sent me diving back into my own books and past columns for reference, just to remind myself that I'm not forgetting anything that will keep her healthy and help her grow into a confident and loving companion.

This is a great time of year to adopt a kitten, with plenty of eager youngsters at the shelters. And if, like me, you're dealing with the joy of a new baby in your home, you'll want some guidance, too.

-- Getting off to a healthy start. Off to the veterinarian with you both! I took Clara in for some visiting and snuggling that were unrelated to any medical procedures -- yes, I have a great relationship with my veterinarians and the staff! -- so she could see that not all veterinary visits are awful.

And then, we tailored a vaccination schedule -- things have changed from the old "yearly shots" -- designed to suit her life as an indoor cat and reduce the risk of vaccine-associated cancers. Preventive care for kittens also includes a discussion of various parasites -- from intestinal worms to fleas to heartworms -- and preventive medicine for all these pests.

Finally, of course, she was spayed (see sidebar).

-- Thinking inside the box. Clara started her life with me in a quiet corner of my home office, living in a large wire dog crate (think Great Dane-sized) with a bed, litter box, toys and food and water. From inside it, she could see the other animals and vice versa without any physical altercations.

Once she relaxed around the other pets (and the dogs learned she was off-limits to them), she graduated to getting the run of the entire room, with the litter box in the adjacent half-bath. She slowly gained the entire run of the house, but still knows the office as her home base. The litter box is still in that half-bath -- a quiet, dog-proof sanctuary. I use a big box and a high-quality clumping litter, and I scoop twice daily to keep it clean.

If I keep up my end of the bargain, keeping the litter box clean in a safe place, she should be able to keep up hers (barring any illness, of course).

-- Keeping the house kitten-safe. I thought because of the parrot and the rabbit (not to mention having just raised a puppy) that my house was fairly kitten-proof. Not so: Kittens add the excitement of elevated trouble, with their ability to get those needle-pointed paws into almost anything and climb upward with speed if not grace.

Knick-knacks too heavy for the parrot to push over proved no match for little Clara, and the control cords of my blinds likewise suffered for her attention. Within a few days I had everything put away, covered up, rolled up and tucked in tight. A new, multilevel cat tree with both carpeting and sisal scratching surfaces soon became her new base of operation. I praised her for using it for her clawing, and so far she's leaving most everything else alone.

-- Embracing the bond. Kittenhood is the time not only to stop bad habits, but also to instill good ones that will last a lifetime. The best part of all is learning to share love.

Clara has learned to play in ways that encourage her to exercise her mind and body, but not her claws, when my skin is involved. She loves the laser pointer, cat-fishing toys and is always left alone with puzzle games that require her to work for food and entertainment. We're even working on a little trick-training, using operant conditioning and food rewards. She loves it!

In just a few short weeks she has gone from a little waif too terrified to leave her carrier to a confident, half-grown cat who's quick to purr and even quicker to pounce in play.

I just can't imagine life without her now, and I look forward to many years with her as part of my loving and entertaining family of pets.

SIDEBAR

Neuter that kitten!

Not all kittens are as lucky as the little fuzzball you took home. That's why it's so important that you help out all kittens and cats by doing one very important thing with your new feline companion:

Have your pet neutered. The sooner the better.

Veterinary organizations have long endorsed early neutering, on animals as young as 8 weeks. Many humane associations and shelters are already doing so -- perhaps your kitten was fixed before you were allowed to take her home!

At 8 weeks, 8 months or even 8 years, there's no reason to wait -- and a lot of reasons to go forward. Neutering helps to stop the "kittens out, kittens in" game that shelters play -- and lose -- every summer. And spaying and neutering offer some real health and behavior benefits for you as a pet owner.

Get your kitten fixed as soon as you can. It's the right thing to do. -- Gina Spadafori

Q&A

Cat's rub is love -- and much more

Q: Why are cats so eager to rub up against us? -- B.Q., via e-mail

A: When a cat rubs against a person, it's a sign of friendliness and affection. But rubbing also performs a very important feline function: scent-marking.

Cats want everything in the world to smell as they do, and they spend their lives trying to accomplish that feat. When cats rub against people or furniture, they're depositing sebum from glands on their heads to spread their own trademark scent on what -- or who -- they're bumping.

That's the most "people-approved" form of scent-marking in cats, but there are others. When cats claw, they're not only keeping the tips of their claws razor-sharp, but they're also depositing scent from glands in the feet. When they lick themselves -- or you -- they're putting scent-impregnated saliva all over. Smelling right to a cat is so important that they'll even start grooming themselves after being petted, to cover your scent again with their own.

The least popular form of scent-marking -- from a human point of view, anyway -- is urine-spraying. Although many cat lovers believe this to be a litter-box avoidance issue, in fact it's a completely separate behavior.

A cat urinating in a box squats. A cat scent-marking with urine stands, backs up to the object he's intending to mark, twitches his raised tail and lets it fly. Although urine-spraying is commonly a problem of unneutered males, cats of both genders, neutered or not, have been known to indulge in this messy, smelly habit. -- Dr. Marty Becker

Q: Is it true that a cat's whiskers are always as wide as his body? Do they use them to judge what they can fit through? -- F.B., via e-mail

A: Sort of. Cats are able to squeeze through spaces that seem narrower than they are because they don't have a rigid collarbone to block their way through nooks and crannies. Once they can get their head and shoulders through, their sleek bodies present no further obstacle.

That's if those bodies are sleek, that is. The world is full of fat cats, after all, and for them, fitting through tiny holes is not a given. For one thing, they may think they're capable of fitting even if their paunch says otherwise. That's because a cat's whiskers -- super-sensitive, specialized hairs -- spread roughly as wide as a cat does. But they don't grow longer as a cat gets wider, which can lead some corpulent cats into sticky situations. -- Gina Spadafori

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

ABOUT PET CONNECTION

Pet Connection is produced by a team of pet-care experts headed by "Good Morning America" veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker and award-winning journalist Gina Spadafori. The two are also the authors of several best-selling pet-care books.

On PetConnection.com there's more information on pets and their care, reviews of products, books and "dog cars," and a weekly drawing for pet-care prizes. Contact Pet Connection in care of this newspaper by sending e-mail to petconnection@gmail.com or visiting PetConnection.com.

PET BUZZ

Full moon means pet emergencies

-- A study in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association finds that emergency room visits for pets increase during or near a full moon.

-- According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, veterinarians have the lowest risk rate of all professions, often allowing them 100 percent financing on their SBA loans. Veterinarians have a charge-off rate of just .02 percent, whereas medical doctors have a 1 percent charge-off rate.

-- Pets who are overweight or obese are 50 percent more likely to develop asthma than those of normal weight.

-- Grandpa Simpson has some strong opinions. When asked in an AARP interview what movie star he'd most like to be, "The Simpsons" character chose Lassie. "Then at least I'd be fed, walked and hugged," he said.

-- Common foods in the kitchen that can make your pet sick: chocolate, moldy foods, onions, raisins or grapes, salt, and any gum or candy containing xylitol as a sweetener. -- Dr. Marty Becker

ON GOOD BEHAVIOR

Adult dog rules a must for pup

Puppies learn most rapidly before 14 weeks of age and retain those lessons for life. If you have a puppy who's going to be a big dog, you may be letting him learn some bad lessons now. Does he stand on his hind legs reaching up for attention as you sit on the couch? Do you scoop him up and place him on the couch as you watch television? Do you encourage him up onto your bed?

Consider this a warning. At 5 months old, your puppy will not grasp that he's grown plenty big and is going to be even bigger. He will still try putting his front paws on you, sitting on the couch and sleeping in your bed. Training your puppy at 6 months of age not to jump on you and to stay off the furniture is much harder after you've already let him learn unwanted behaviors when he was a little pup.

Always remember to start the "adult dog rules" with your puppy from day one.

(Animal behavior experts Susan and Dr. Rolan Tripp are the authors of "On Good Behavior." For more information, visit their Web site at AnimalBehavior.net.)

DOG CARS

Stylish Chevy HHR comes with room for dogs

The Chevrolet HHR is one of the more distinctive vehicles on the road, with retro styling that you'll either love or hate. But there's no debating the versatility of this crossover, which has room for people, pets and more.

The four-door with a squared-off back and a lift hatch looks as if it needs a surfboard to complete the picture. Competitive pricing also makes it look as if its appeal should be to the entry-level buyer, with prices starting just a tick under $17,000 in five trim styles, including a windowless panel version. (Multiple option packages, including the useful road-assistance OnStar service, can add on the dollars quickly, though.)

But flip that rear hatch, and you'll find an interior that's roomy and versatile. The bench rear seats flip down easily in a 60/40 configuration, opening up almost 58 cubic feet of cargo space. Even better, the backs of those seats and the rear compartment are covered with high-impact plastic -- no carpet for muddy paws to muck up.

A large storage bin is hidden under the rear deck, with two smaller storage areas with flip-up covers just behind the rear seat.

The HHR's rear deck is low enough that most dogs can get in with ease. And although the cool little hauler isn't wide enough for a pair of side-by-side crates for large dogs, crates for small dogs will have no problem fitting in. Even big dog crates can be accommodated with some creative cargo-loading, with a safe ride available for all.

Basic fuel economy is a decent 23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, making this a great car for traveling with your pet. There's room for everything, and getting there won't break the bank. -- Gina Spadafori

(For all the Pet Connection vehicle and travel products reviews, visit DogCars.com.)

PETS BY THE NUMBERS

Where birds stay when you fly

Professional pet care has long been an option for dogs and cats, but few bird lovers use boarding or pet-sitting services when they travel.

TRAVEL CARE FOR BIRDS

Family/friend/neighbor comes to home 53 percent

Leave bird with family/friend/neighbor 17 percent

Leave bird home alone with food/water 13 percent

Take birds along 4 percent

Board bird 1 percent

Professional pet sitter 1 percent

Other/no answer 11 percent

Source: American Pet Products Manufacturers Association

THE SCOOP

Errand? Leave your dog home

With just a few weeks left in summer, don't let your guard down when it comes to protecting your dog from a hot car.

Even if your pet loves to run errands, it's better to leave him home at this time of the year. That's because the "greenhouse effect" can turn a car into an oven even on a day that's only warm, not hot.

An 85-degree day may mean 102 degrees inside a vehicle in 10 minutes and 120 degrees within 30 minutes -- even with the windows rolled down slightly.

In just the amount of time it takes to run a quick errand, a dog with heat intolerance -- because of age or a short nose -- can be put at grave risk. And in the time it takes to do a little grocery shopping, any dog can be killed.

It's just not work the risk. -- Dr. Marty Becker

Pet Connection is produced by a team of team of pet-care experts headed by "Good Morning America" veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker and award-winning journalist Gina Spadafori. The two are also the authors of several best-selling pet-care books. Contact Pet Connection in care of this newspaper, by sending e-mail to petconnection@gmail.com or by visiting PetConnection.com.

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

Universal Press Syndicate

Many dogs enjoy swimming as much as people do, and cool times in the local swimming spot or backyard pool are one of the best parts of summer. But you have to look out for your pet around water, since even the strongest, most enthusiastic swimmers can get into trouble.

The keys to water safety for dogs: prevention, preparedness and awareness.

-- Prevention: No dog should be given unsupervised access to a backyard pool or a neighborhood pond or creek. Swimming pools are best fenced off for safety. And if that's not possible, they should be equipped with alarms that sound when the surface of the water is broken by a child or pet falling in. Escape tools like the Skamper-Ramp (www.skamper-ramp.com; 1-877-766-5738) are a good idea, but it's better to prevent pets from getting in unsupervised in the first place.

Prevention also includes teaching your pet what to do when he's in the pool. Dogs don't get the idea that the steps are on one side only, and they may tire and drown trying to crawl out the side. If your pet likes to swim, work with him in the pool to help him learn where the steps are so he can get out easily.

Finally, obedience training is extremely important. Your dog should come when called, even when swimming, so you can call him back before he heads into deeper water or stronger currents. Emergency shortcut: Always carry extra retrieving toys. A dog who's heading out into a dangerous area after a ball or stick can often be lured back into shore with a second item thrown closer in. It's no substitute for training, but it could save your dog's life.

-- Preparedness: Before letting your dog swim in any natural surroundings, survey the area for safety. Rivers and oceans can change frequently, and an area that was safe for swimming one visit can be treacherous the next. Consider currents, tides, underwater hazards and even the condition of the water. In the late summer, algae scum on the top of standing water can be toxic, producing substances that can kill a pet who swallows the tainted water.

When in doubt, no swimming. Better safe than sorry.

One of the best things you can do is take courses in first aid and CPR for your pets. Many local Red Cross chapters offer these classes, and some veterinarians may also teach them in your community. A dog who's pulled out near death from drowning may be saved by your prompt actions -- if you know what to do.

If your dog isn't much of a swimmer, or is older or debilitated, get him a personal floatation device. These are especially great for family boating trips because most have sturdy handles for rescue when a pet goes overboard.

-- Awareness: Be aware of your dog's condition as he plays. Remember that even swimming dogs can get hot, so bring fresh water and offer it constantly. When your dog is tiring, be sure to call it a day. A tired dog is a good dog, but an exhausted dog is in danger of drowning.

-- Be particularly careful of young and old dogs. Both can get themselves into more trouble when a healthy adult dog with lots of swimming experience. Young dogs can panic in the water, and old dogs may not realize they aren't as strong as they used to be. Keep them close to shore, and keep swimming sessions short.

Swimming is great exercise and great fun for all, and with these few simple precautions you can keep the cool times coming, with safety in mind.

SIDEBAR

Perfect pool play in a small way

Just as it seems that as many "baby" gates are purchased for pets as for children, the ubiquitous kiddie pool has thoroughly gone to the dogs.

The small pools made of hard plastic are perfect for dogs of all sizes, providing a tummy-cooling wallow for an overheated retriever or a safe way to wade for a swim-challenged pug. (Be sure choose the hard-plastic variety; the inflatable kind doesn't hold up well to dog claws.)

Always supervise the pool's use, to prevent any accidents.

Kept clean and stored in a covered spot for winter, a kiddie pool will last for many seasons. Just remember in the summer that standing water is a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes and toxic algae, so rinse it clean after every use and refill it with fresh water every time. -- Gina Spadafori

Q&A

Managing fear of bad storms

Q: Can you suggest some ways for us to cope with our dog's fear of thunderstorms? They are a constant problem in our part of the country, and our dog is miserable. -- K.R., via e-mail

A: Some breeds and types of dogs seem to be more high-strung and sensitive to noise, but the truth is that any dog can become terrified of storms. After all, a storm is more than just thunder: The atmospheric pressure changes, the sky lights up, static electricity builds and rain pounds on the roof. The smells in the air are so different that even we scent-challenged humans say, "Smells like rain." Imagine what an incoming storm smells like to our dogs!

For some dogs, fear of thunderstorms increases because their people mishandle the early signs of fear -- either by soothing the dog or by punishing her. Soothing a dog ("Poor baby! Don't be afraid. Come here and get a hug.") rewards the behavior, while punishing a dog makes a scary event even more frightening.

Sensitivity to thunder is easier to prevent than to cure, unfortunately. When puppies and young dogs show concern, one strategy is to distract them. Give them something positive to do, such as starting a training session with lots of treats, or playing a favorite game. In other words, ignore the storm, distract the dog and set the tone by acting unconcerned. With a new dog, the first time there is a storm, pretend it is an invitation to a "storm party." With every crack of thunder, respond, "Whoopee! That was a fun one, here's your storm cookie!" Couple this with happy requests for simple obedience commands.

Once a dog has developed a full-blown phobia, though, the fear of storms is quite dramatic and can be dangerous. Some dogs may tremble, others may destroy their surroundings, and still others may bite out of fear.

If your dog is afraid of loud noises that you can predict -- fireworks on holidays, for example -- ask your veterinarian to prescribe a sedative for your pet just for those days.

For fearful dogs who live in areas that get a lot of thunderstorms, your best bet is asking your veterinarian for a referral to a behaviorist. A veterinary behaviorist will work with you on a treatment plan that may include medications, counter-conditioning, pheromones and even anti-static jackets in an effort to help a dog to relax during storms. -- Dr. Marty Becker

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

ABOUT PET CONNECTION

Pet Connection is produced by a team of pet-care experts headed by "Good Morning America" veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker and award-winning journalist Gina Spadafori. The two are also the authors of several best-selling pet-care books.

On PetConnection.com there's more information on pets and their care, reviews of products, books and "dog cars," and a weekly drawing for pet-care prizes. Contact Pet Connection in care of this newspaper by sending e-mail to petconnection@gmail.com or visiting PetConnection.com.

PET BUY

Clever brush keeps your pet's toys clean

For years, trainers and behaviorists have recommended stuffing hollow toys such as the popular Kong with peanut butter and bits of dog treats, cheese and more. The idea is that giving a stuffed Kong -- or other toy that can be chewed on safely -- as a special treat to keep a dog busy while he's alone will prevent destruction of household items.

Most of these toys seem to clean up pretty well when run through the dishwasher, impaled on one of the rack spines of the top shelf. But sometimes there's just a little bit of food that never seems to come out ... until now.

The Bamboo Toy Cleaning Brush ($8 from pet-supply retailers) is like a bottle brush, but shaped for use in toys like the Kong, wider at the bottom than the top. There's a smaller brush hidden in the handle, and a suction cup on the bottom for leaving the cleaner upright for air-drying. A pretty clever solution for a problem that most people didn't know they had until they realized it -- and needed something to fix it! -- Gina Spadafori

PET TIP

A cheap fix for a skunk hit

Every summer I get requests from people who "kind of remember" that skunk smell solution, but can't find where they filed the information. And then the dog comes in ... stinking. Here's the cure:

Take 1 quart of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of liquid dishwashing soap, such as Ivory. Mix and immediately apply to the stinky pet. Rinse thoroughly with tap water.

You can double or triple the recipe if you have a big dog, but always get the solution on your pet as quickly as you can after you combine the ingredients. The chemical reaction is what eliminates the skunk smell, and it doesn't last long.

Don't mix up the solution in advance, and don't try to store it in a closed bottle -- it'll burst any closed container you put it in. But do keep the ingredients on hand ... just in case.

Commercial products are available that do a pretty good job, as well. And what about that old standby, tomato juice? Use it and what you'll end up with is a pink dog who still stinks -- maybe just not quite as much. -- Gina Spadafori

THE SCOOP

People, dogs have different opinions on what constitutes a 'good' smell

You know those sprays and plug-ins you use to make the house smell fresh? Your dog is not impressed. If your dog were choosing a scent to make the house smell perfect, she might pick Old Dead Squirrel or Pile o'Cat Poop.

As much as we love our dogs, we have a difference of opinion when it comes to defining what smells "good." Considering that our dogs' sense of smell is hundreds of times better than ours, who's to say which species is right about what smells the best?

Now, about that rolling in those malodorous messes. It's pretty simple, actually: People like to put on nice scents, and so do dogs.

One theory on stink-rolling is that it represents a canine celebration of abundance. Now and then a dog will encounter a rewarding tidbit with a pungent smell; it's like a person finding a $20 bill on the ground. Sweet! It's certainly a good reason to stick a canine nose as close to the scent source as possible and inhale all that wonderful aroma. But to discover an entire rotting fish or some other large pile of nastiness often triggers the urge to celebrate with a hearty roll; like a person who won the lottery throwing $100 bills all over the bed and "rolling in dough."

There's a survival element, too. For a hunting animal, there's a tactical advantage to not smelling like a predator: The prey don't know that you're coming. Rolling in strong odors -- feces and even dead animals -- is thought to provide scent cover, to help predators land their lunch a little more easily.

Of course, none of our pet dogs have to hunt for their supper, but old instincts never really go away. That's why if there's a bad smell available, there's a good dog happy to roll in it. And not long after, a spoilsport human with warm water and soap ready to ruin it all -- from the dog's point of view. -- Dr. Marty Becker

BY THE NUMBERS

Stop, in the name of love

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, people struggling to quit smoking can find extra motivation from their pets. The AVMA says owners who smoke are more likely to have dogs with lung and nasal sinus cancer, and cats who have lymphoma. When smokers are told that secondhand smoke can hurt their pets:

-- 22.3 percent would think about quitting smoking

-- 32.2 percent would try to quit.

-- 33.1 percent would ban smoking indoors.

-- 42.5 percent would ask others not to smoke indoors

ON GOOD BEHAVIOR

Punishment sends the wrong message

If you spare the rod, do you spoil the pet? Many pet owners spank their kittens and puppies, hoping to teach the pet a lesson when in fact what they're teaching the animal is that humans are not to be trusted.

For example, your puppy races to you happily when called but jumps up. You spank the puppy for jumping up. Your happy puppy learns not to come when called because that's when you get really angry. Or your cat swats at you and you hit him or kick back. The cat learns never to get close to you, again. That was not the lesson you intended to teach, was it?

Pets who are physically punished tend to develop unstable personalities. They become more aloof, skittish, hand-shy and aggressive.

Pet Connection is produced by a team of team of pet-care experts headed by "Good Morning America" veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker and award-winning journalist Gina Spadafori. The two are also the authors of several best-selling pet-care books. Contact Pet Connection in care of this newspaper, by sending e-mail to petconnection@gmail.com or by visiting PetConnection.com.

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