Universal Press Syndicate

The very reason our ancestors first decided they wanted cats around is used today in arguing against allowing any cats to roam freely: They hunt, efficiently.

The predatory skill cats brought to eliminating rodents in grain storage is now argued to be a danger to endangered species and prized songbirds. That's another good reason for keeping pet cats inside, but what to do with the ferals -- pets gone wild and their unsocialized offspring?

Advocates of TNR -- trap, neuter and release -- say maintaining healthy, neutered feral cat colonies is the best way to reduce feline numbers and problems. And, they argue, it's both a kinder and more effective way than trapping and killing untamable cats.

There have always been kind-hearted people who feed homeless cats, even if it's just sharing a tuna sandwich from a park bench. There have also always been people who find colonies of feral cats to be annoying: The cats make noise, they mess and spray, and they multiply like, well ... cats.

Cities, colleges and military bases -- and others with large pieces of land to manage -- used to routinely handle feral cat colonies by trapping all the cats and killing those who could not be tamed for adoption.

TNR advocates argue that just feeding feral cats makes the problem worse (because the animals keep breeding), but that trapping and killing the cats doesn't solve the problem in the long run, either.

Instead, TNR volunteers trap the cats, place the ones they can in caring homes, and return the truly untamable to their original territory after they've been neutered and vaccinated. These colonies can then be fed and cared for in a hands-off but humane way, while their numbers dwindle naturally because the reproductive taps have been turned off for good.

Trap, neuter and release programs for feral cats seem counterintuitive to many people. If you don't want cats around, wouldn't it make sense just to remove them permanently?

But when you remove cats, TNR advocates say, other animals take their place. That's because the food source that attracted to the cats will still be there, which means more cats (or rats, coyotes or raccoons) will eventually show up. They point to studies showing that TNR policies really do reduce feral cat populations.

Neutering reduces the fighting, yowling and spraying behaviors, many of which are associated with fighting over mates. The neutered cats defend their territory, too, and prevent other animals from moving in -- including unneutered cats who could breed. The colony caretakers are quick to remove and find homes for any abandoned pets who turn up, as well as any kittens.

While such programs aren't perfect -- and aren't considered appropriate for ecologically sensitive locations or areas where the protection of small-prey species is necessary -- trap, neuter and release is an option that must be considered where feral cats are a problem.

TNR is a strategy that's both humane and sensible, and it should be allowed to become the new "common knowledge" when it comes to feral cats.

SIDEBAR

Alley Cat Allies: A cat's best friend

Feral cats have no better friends than the folks at Alley Cat Allies.

The Maryland-based group has spent years challenging and changing the widely held belief that the only way to deal with feral cats is with extermination.

The group's Web site (www.alleycat.org)is a well-organized tribute to the idea that information is power. There's something for everyone, from a kindhearted person looking to help a single feral to local authorities trying to weigh the options for local feral-cat colonies.

The group is more than a Web site, though. Their volunteers were out in force to rescue cats in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and they are active in feral cat management throughout the nation. -- Gina Spadafori

Q&A

Why can't our pugs fly?

Q: We are the proud owners of two pugs. We're thinking ahead to vacation plans to visit my husband's family on the other side of the country. Of course, we want to take our dogs. In doing a little research, though, we discovered that air travel isn't recommended for dogs like ours. Why not? -- T.W., via e-mail

A: Dogs with extremely short muzzles and rounded heads are called "brachycephalic." And despite their adorable, almost human expressions, they have a host of related health challenges related to the non-standard-issue canine anatomy.

The dogs are notoriously heat-intolerant, and they have such difficulty breathing that air travel is generally not recommended, as you've read.

But that's not all the health challenges for these dogs.

The malformation of the skull often results in crowding of teeth that can cause dental issues. And because there isn't a lot of room for eye sockets, the relatively large, round eyes that give these breeds their endearing appearance have a tendency to pop out in response to rough play or other head trauma. Finally, the folds of facial skin on these dogs can be difficult to maintain.

Veterinarians can correct some of these issues with surgery that may seem cosmetic but can actually improve the quality of life for these pets.

Even with a veterinarian's help, though, air travel may be too high a risk for short-nosed dogs. If you can travel with both of yours in the cabin with you -- check with your airline -- the risk will be reduced. But putting them in cargo generally isn't recommended.

Talk to your veterinarian about what's best for your pugs, including any factors that may increase the degree of danger, such as obesity. In the end, you may well decide that if you cannot drive and cargo is the only option for your pugs, it may be best to leave them home. -- Dr. Marty Becker and 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

Implant an alternative to canine neutering

-- A new contraceptive implant that halts testosterone and sperm production for months at a time may be used as an alternative to neutering in dogs. This product in already licensed in Australia, European approval is imminent, and steps are being taken to offer the implant in North America.

-- The oldest archaeological site with a cat burial is about 9,500 years old and was found in Cyprus.

-- A survey of 450 veterinarians revealed their belief that the most important factors causing obesity in dogs are: too much food, 37 percent; not enough exercise, 27 percent; too many treats, 26 percent; and genetics, 10 percent.

The same survey given to 1,000 dog owners found that only 17 percent classified their dogs as overweight or obese, with veterinarians saying that 47 percent of their canine patients were overweight or obese. Guess it's true: Love is blind.

-- The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that $9.8 billion will be spent by pet owners on veterinary care in 2007.

-- Fleas bite more than 400 times per day -- that's more than 4,000 bites a day if a pet has just 10 fleas. No wonder fleas make pets so miserable.

-- Medicines such as Prozac are given to cats who spray urine, parrots who pull their feathers out when bored, dogs who are destructive when left alone and zoo animals missing their natural habitats. -- Dr. Marty Becker

PETS ON THE WEB

Pet emergency advice for free

Are you ready to evacuate with your family -- pets included -- in case of a disaster? If you're not sure, take some time to visit the Ready.gov Web site's special section on pets (www.ready.gov/america/getakit/pets.html).

The federal government site offers a video overview of what's needed, plus a downloadable brochure that can be printed out at home. Guidance on what to think of and have on hand in advance is laid out in simple, concise terms.

In recent years -- most notably in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina -- we've learned to respect how strong the bond is that people share with their pets. Providing for these animals keeps everyone safer, since many people won't look after themselves until they know their pets are OK, too. -- Gina Spadafori

THE SCOOP

Click with your cat for more fun

Some people point to the dog's ability to learn obedience commands and tricks as proof that dogs are smarter than cats. Others point to the same thing as proof that cats are smarter than dogs -- cats don't have to work for a living.

Cats and dogs are different in how they relate to us. Dogs have an ingrained need to be part of a family structure and to have a job to do within that family. Dogs are that way in large part because wolves are that way -- survival depends on the family, or pack.

The cat came from a different place, descended from solitary hunters who didn't need teamwork to survive.

If you want to put a good spin on it as a cat lover, you could say that dogs need to be with us, while cats choose to.

Because of this distinction, you absolutely cannot get a cat to do something he doesn't want to. Something must be in it for him. When training a cat, that something is usually food.

For example, you can start teaching the "sit" command to a hungry cat using a table, a quiet room and some treats. Get your cat to stand up by touching her on her back in front of her tail.

Then hold the treat a little over her head, saying her name and the command "sit." Slowly move the treat between your cat's ears, but not high enough for her to pick her front paws off the ground and grab the tidbit. Instead, she'll sit. After she does, praise her and give her the treat. Work in short sessions and be patient. Your cat will eventually get the idea!

Build on your successes. From "sit" can come "sit up." Many cats also love active tricks, such as jumping through hoops.

"Clicker" training -- marking a correct behavior with a noise and following with a treat -- works great when training cats.

Clicker-training guru Karen Pryor offers a collection of instructions, streaming video, books, and other tools and tips for clicker-training cats on her Web site at www.clickertraining.com. -- Gina Spadafori

PETS BY THE NUMBERS

Parents rush to get pets

Even though many experts caution that very young children aren't always a good match for pets, many parents can't wait. According to a 2006 study, the age of the oldest or only child when a pet was brought into the home:

Dog Cat

Child under 5 61% 57%

Child 6-9 18% 18%

10 and older 21% 25%

Source: American Pet Products Manufacturers Association

ON GOOD BEHAVIOR

Cats aren't good at sharing

Cats are territorial, which means they are not crazy about sharing.

They don't like sharing anything a cat uses or enjoys, including food and water bowls, litter boxes, scratching posts, resting and climbing areas, toys, and the attention of the people in the home.

To prevent problems, go overboard in adding feline favorites when you add a new cat to your family.

Don't put everything in one location. Instead, spread resources throughout the house. If needed, give one cat a "sacred" room that is off-limits to the others.

Cats are individuals. The more you can pay attention to body language and daily behaviors, the better you will be at making any helpful adjustments. Ears back, tails tucked or tense muscles mean a cat who's not happy sharing.

(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

After many years of caring for and writing about pets, two things constantly surprise us:

-- How little it takes for some people to break the human-animal bond and dump a pet. For some people, any failure on the pet's part to meet often unrealistic behavior expectations can cause an end to a pet's stay in the home.

-- How much it takes for some people to even admit there's a problem with a pet. For these people, giving up on a pet isn't an option. But they often don't realize they can get help that will make life better for everyone in the family, pet included.

Life doesn't have to be this way for those pet owners at either extreme, or for most people in the middle, who have some mild behavioral challenges with a pet. While some behavior problems aren't fixable -- a dog who has attacked with true intent to harm, for example -- many other issues can be resolved.

To accomplish such change, though, you have to be prepared to put some time into changing the situation. Quick-fix, halfhearted efforts are doomed from the start. And you need help from your veterinarian and a pet-behavior expert.

Why your veterinarian? Because the first rule of solving any behavioral problem is to make sure it's not a medical problem. Health issues that cause or contribute to behavior problems must first be accurately diagnosed and treated with the help of your veterinarian.

Once you know your pet is healthy, a behaviorist can help you work on getting you and your pet on the same page.

This is the stage where many people balk, but they shouldn't. Consulting a behaviorist can save time, money and aggravation. Time, because someone with experience in animal behavior can quickly determine the root of the problem, without the emotional baggage that a pet owner may bring to the situation. Money, because a consultation or two is a great deal cheaper than replacing a chewed couch or blitzed landscaping. And aggravation? Anyone who has ever lived with a problem pet -- and that's most of us, at one time or another -- can understand how annoying it can be.

Behaviorists are not "trainers" in the sense of offering group obedience classes to sharpen a pet's manners. Instead, they work one-on-one with you to solve a specific behavior problem. The consulting takes various forms. Some behaviorists consult by phone, others take appointments with or without your pet, and others make house calls. All of these can work, depending on the problem and the pet.

One of the best choices for help is a veterinarian who has received additional certification in solving pet-behavior problems. These professionals have gone through years of study in animal health and behavior and have done a residency in the field as well. One plus with this group: They can prescribe medications to help correct problems as part of an overall behavior-modification program.

People with other academic degrees (such as in psychology) and people who've picked up their knowledge in the field also make themselves available for advising on pet behavior problems. Some in the latter group can be excellent, so don't let a lack of degrees deter you from getting help from someone who has studied in the "school of hard knocks" (or would that be the "school of bites and scratches"?).

If you're in a situation where you're thinking of dumping your pet, are living with a difficult pet behavior problem or just have a couple of issues you'd like resolved, don't put off getting the help you need. With the help of a veterinarian and a good behaviorist, you can have that peaceable kingdom you've always wanted.

SIDEBAR

Where to find pet-behavior help

The best place to start dealing with a pet's behavior problems is by asking your veterinarian for a referral to a local trainer or behaviorist. If you come up with nothing suitable, check out the nearest school or college of veterinary medicine -- most have veterinarians on staff with additional training in animal behavior.

You may also find a veterinarian working with pet behavior problems through one of these organizations:

-- American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (www.dacvb.org)

-- American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (www.avsabonline.org)

Other organizations whose members have experience in solving pet-behavior problems include:

-- International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (www.iaabc.org)

-- Association of Pet Dog Trainers (www.apdt.com)

-- National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors (www.nadoi.org) -- Gina Spadafori

Q&A

Towels keep setter calm

Q: Regarding your article on dogs who react poorly to fireworks and thunderstorms, may we share what works for us? My husband found a way this year to get our dog through the Independence Day fireworks.

We ask our English setter to lie down on the floor. We then put three beach towels over his body. We think that blocking his vision and reducing his hearing did the trick. He was quiet the whole time. Usually he keeps trying to find a place to hide, and he shakes the entire time the fireworks are going off. Yet this dog does not mind the sound of a gun when out hunting. Go figure! -- M.M., via e-mail

A: I would guess your innovative improvisation works like commercial products such as the Calming Cap (www.premier.com or 888-640-8840) and the Anxiety Wrap (www.anxietywrap.com or 877-652-1266). Really, you've provided your dog with a combination of both! Your beach towel cure helps your pet to relax because it cuts off some of the sensory input, and it may even offer the calming sensation of pressure on the body.

As for your dog thinking the gunfire associated with hunting is fine while fireworks is not ... well, part of it is likely because he enjoys doing the work he was bred for, out on a beautiful day with someone he loves. The sound of gunfire means good things to your dog, while the fireworks are just scary noise. Thanks for sharing! -- Dr. Marty Becker

Q: May I add one more tip to your piece on dogs and swimming? Watch for signs that your dog is drinking too much water while swimming.

I have a friend whose Australian shepherd drinks quite a bit of water when she swims. One day she almost died from water intoxication because she drank too much water while she was swimming. -- J.M., via e-mail

A: Thanks for the additional caution. Yes, it's true that some dogs drink too much water, and even clean, fresh water can become a problem in such circumstances. (Brackish water and saltwater can cause their own problems, especially when toxic algae blooms are in season.)

As we wrote in our earlier piece, swimming is great fun and good exercise. But it's always up to us to be sure our dogs are safe in and around the water. That's true if it's your backyard pool or any nearby body of water. Thanks for writing with your additional words of warning. -- 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

Pets two times the allergy 'fun'

-- Dogs and cats are primary carriers of allergens (their own dander, urine and saliva trigger allergy responses) as well as secondary carriers. Their coats are like a dust mop filled with whatever pollen is in the air or on the ground. Weekly baths with a hypoallergenic shampoo have been shown to help.

-- Feline eye implants offer hope for humans. A University of Missouri veterinary ophthalmologist hopes the technology behind microchips to curb retinal blindness in cats may one day help humans.

-- A dog-appeasing pheromone (DAP) designed to mimic a scent that mother dogs produce to calm their puppies has been shown to minimize anxiety in response to stressful sounds or experiences including fireworks, thunderstorms and car travel. This product is available in a spray, as an air diffuser or on a collar from Veterinary Product Laboratories (www.vpl.com).

-- Your average opossum has 13 nipples arranged in a circular pattern with one in the middle.

-- According to the Morris Animal Foundation, the dog breeds most likely to get cancer include the Bernese mountain dog, boxer, chow chow, cocker spaniel, collie, English springer spaniel, flat-coated retriever, golden retriever, Labrador retriever, greyhound, pug, shar-pei, Scottish terrier and Rottweiler. -- Dr. Marty Becker

PET BUY

Make a batch of pupsicles

Everybody appreciates cool refreshment on hot days, and that includes our pets. Keep pet water supplies cool by adding ice chips or cubes to the water supply of smaller pets, ice blocks for larger animals. Ice blocks can be made easily by freezing water in used margarine tubs.

If you want to get a little fancier, check out Ice Pups from The Honest Kitchen (www.thehonestkitchen.com or 858-483-5995). The product is dehydrated chicken and turkey, along with other healthy ingredients such as honey and dandelions. It contains no salt, preservatives, sugar or artificial flavoring. Mix the powder in warm water and then freeze either into blocks or cubes. You can also serve it as a cool liquid treat.

Suggested retail is $7.50 for a 4-ounce pouch that makes 16 servings. -- Gina Spadafori

PET BOOK

Good advice on keeping dog parks safe, fun

Dog parks sound like a wonderful idea -- a fenced, dedicated area for dogs to run around off-leash and play with other dogs. What's not to love?

Unfortunately, there can be plenty of problems. Unscooped poop, dog fights, unattended children, unsupervised dogs, rude owners and damaged fences can ruin the dog park experience, not just for dogs and their owners but for entire communities.

"Some dogs just aren't right for dog parks, and others need a little assistance to appreciate the social opportunity," writes Cheryl S. Smith in "Visiting the Dog Park: Having Fun, Staying Safe" (Dogwise, $12). "You will be better able to see that all goes well for your dog if you have some essential knowledge of dog parks before venturing through the gate."

Some tips from the book:

-- Teach your dog to come when called. You'll be able to call her away from potential fights and open gates, and get her to leave when you're ready, not when you can catch her.

-- Make sure you know how your dog reacts with other dogs before that first visit.

-- Use the "personality types" guide to decide if your dog has the right temperament to use a dog park at all, or if she needs some training and socialization first.

-- Check fences and gates for safety before letting your dog loose in a dog park.

-- Obey the rules! Keep gates closed, pick up after your dog, and don't let your dog bother other dogs.

This useful book is just the place to gain that knowledge, from how to prepare your dog for his first visit to the park to how to read canine body language. Along the way it covers evaluating dog parks for safety, safety tips for small dogs, preventing diseases and even how to find -- or start -- a dog park in your community. -- Christie Keith

BY THE NUMBERS

More the merrier

While most people with dogs are happy to have just one, among cat lovers the trend is for multiple ownership. Figures from 2004:

Number of cats owned:

One 49 percent

Two 25 percent

Three or more 26 percent

Average number of cats owned: 2.4

Source: American Pet Products Manufacturers Association

ON GOOD BEHAVIOR

Teach your pup to do push-ups

Puppies and dogs need lots of mental and physical exercise. Teaching "push-ups" gives dogs of all ages and sizes a great release for excess energy.

Since dogs read body language better than they learn verbal language, teach them hand signals for these behaviors.

With your elbow at your side, lift up your hand for a "sit," and move your hand down to your side for a "down." In the beginning, praise and give a treat for each "sit" and "down." As your dog learns the pattern, phase out treats by rewarding the down only, then every other down. Always praise for each position before going to the next.

Canine push-ups are great way for canines to earn attention, toys or permission to pass through doorways.

(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

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