Our culture has become very pet-friendly, but as much as I love this shift in attitude, I am also aware that some people don't approve of the change, especially when other people start planning to bring dogs home for the holidays.

Now I'm a veterinarian, not a family counselor. But I do have some suggestions for minimizing the friction between those who always want their dogs with them and those who believe pets should never be imposed on people who don't like them.

When bringing together people and pets, everyone should be honest about potential problems, as well as likes and dislikes. And you need to be honest with yourself about your dog. Is your pet well-socialized, well-mannered, and well-groomed? If not, your dog's not ready to tag along on a family visit. Your pet should also be up to date on preventive health measures, especially those involving parasites.

If your dog is a party-ready animal, ask your host if it's OK to bring your dog along. Never just show up at someone's house with a pet in tow.

My "ground rules" suggestion is that the person who has the ground sets the rules, and the decision to bend or break them is hers alone. If you want to take your pet to a family gathering but your son-in-law says absolutely not in his house, respect that. If your host has pets who don't get along with or would be stressed by a canine visitor, respect that, too.

If you're dealing with someone who will become ill if exposed to a pet, the discussion is over. Leave your pet out of the mix. This extends to people who are afraid of animals or when there will be other guests who might be at high risk of injury around a pet, such as your great-great-aunt who has already broken her hip twice.

If you've been invited to bring your dog along, here's what you will need:

-- A considerate attitude

Taking your dog to someone else's place is a privilege. Ask where your dog is and isn't allowed to be and where you'll be taking him to potty.

-- Potty bags

You will need to pick up after your pet. And ask where those little bags should go after you pick up.

-- Leash

Your dog might be awesome at home, but in a new environment you never can tell. Good manners dictate you keep your pup under control.

-- Crate

Taking a crate when you visit someone allows you to give your dog a room of his own wherever you are and provides your host with options to accommodate other guests.

-- Food dishes

Don't expect to borrow bowls from your host's kitchen. Take your own and ask where you should clean them after meals. Don't be offended if it's a utility sink in the garage.

-- Linens

It's a good idea to take a sheet to throw over your bed if you're allowed to have your dog in your bedroom when you stay over at someone's house. Pack towels as well, since your host may not want you to use the good towels to dry your dog.

If you're a considerate guest, chances are even those who don't like dogs won't have complaints -- and you and your dog will be welcome back. That's the goal, isn't it?

Q&A

Gagging cat may

have feline asthma

Q: My cat is gagging all the time, but he doesn't bring up hairballs and sometimes seems to wheeze as well. What can I give him that will help? -- via email

A: Hairballs often take the blame for a cat's chronic coughing, but the problem could be deeper than that.

Symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, open-mouthed breathing and heaving may indicate a cat with asthma. These attacks can be brought on by stress and allergens, with common allergens including cigarette smoke, pollen, dust, mold, aerosols, perfume, deodorizers, dusty cat litter and food. Common treatment ranges from allergy medication similar to bronchodilators to oxygen therapy.

There's nothing over-the-counter that will help your cat with the problem. You'll need to see your veterinarian for a correct diagnosis that will lead to the right treatment for a potentially dangerous health issue. -- Dr. Marty Becker

Fat cats can get stuck

Q: My cat seems to get herself stuck a lot. Shouldn't she know how to figure out where she should fit? -- via email

A: Cats are able to squeeze through spaces that seem narrower than they are because cats 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, of course.

The world is full of fat cats, after all, and for these chubby felines, fitting through tiny holes is not a sure bet. Cats may find themselves in a tight spot because they don't realize they can't fit through. That's because a cat's whiskers -- super-sensitive specialized hairs -- spread roughly as wide as a cat does, normally allowing the cat to gauge where she can slide through. But they don't grow longer as a cat gets wider, which often leads corpulent cats into sticky situations. -- Gina Spadafori

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

THE BUZZ

Cats don't dig

the sweet stuff

-- People crave sweets -- cakes, candies, cookies and sodas galore -- but cats are generally unimpressed. A cat's taste buds are incapable of detecting, appreciating or triggering a craving for foods that we recognize as "sweet." As "obligate carnivores" (animals who need meat protein to survive), cats simply don't need sweets. It's unclear whether the ancestors of cats had the ability to detect sweetness and lost it, or whether cats never developed a "sweet tooth," since they didn't need it. People (and dogs, for that matter) eat a much more varied diet, and human taste buds reflect that -- we have nearly 10,000 on our tongues. No such variety for cats: They're happy to stick with small prey animals and need fewer than 500 taste buds to figure what's on the menu and what isn't.

-- Dogs may be able to blame their tail-chasing habit on high cholesterol levels, according to a study published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice and reported in Veterinary Economics. Turkish researchers found that dogs who didn't chase their tails had lower levels of cholesterol than the tail-chasers did. Dogs may chase their tails because the high cholesterol levels have blocked the flow of brain hormones controlling mood and behavior. The study suggests that an increase in exercise could help lower the tail-chasing. There may be other medical reasons for tail-chasing as well, so if your dog is chasing his rump, let your veterinarian know.

-- The trade publication Veterinary Economics named the best 10 U.S. cities for a dog-friendly vacation. In order, they are: Portland, Ore.; Chicago; San Diego; Seattle; Philadelphia; Minneapolis; Austin, Texas; Alexandria, Va./Washington D.C.; New York City; and Indianapolis, Ind. -- Dr. Marty Becker and Mikkel Becker

ABOUT PET CONNECTION

Pet Connection is produced by a team of pet-care experts headed by "Good Morning America" and "The Dr. Oz Show" veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker and award-winning journalist Gina Spadafori. The two are affiliated with Vetsteet.com and also the authors of many best-selling pet-care books. Dr. Becker can also be found at Facebook.com/DrMartyBecker or on Twitter at DrMartyBecker.

Dogs are content to live in dog-smell heaven, a place where water is only for drinking or swimming and never has soap added. Sadly, from a canine point of view, we make the rules that dictate how often dogs must be bathed.

But how often is that? Forget that old saw about "every six months" or even "every year." Who wants to live with a stinky dog? New veterinary research shows that weekly bathing with an appropriate shampoo – ask your veterinarian for a recommendation -- will not only keep your dog pleasant to be around, but will also minimize or even eliminate skin problems.

So get ready: We're going to wash the dog!

Before you start, brush your dog well. Mats and tangles, once wet, just get worse and will likely have to be cut out. So get them out of the way first.

Let your brushed dog relax while you set up the proper equipment and fill the tub. A bath mat in the tub or sink will make your dog feel more comfortable by giving him something secure to stand on. You'll also need a spray nozzle. Some people rinse their dogs by pouring dirty bathwater back over them, but that defeats the purpose of bathing a dog (to get him clean), so use a nozzle. Set out your towels and some dog-friendly shampoo and conditioner where you can reach them.

Right before the big plunge, put a pinch of cotton just inside your dog's ears to help keep the soap out (don't forget to remove the cotton afterward).

Don't spare the words of love and encouragement. In working with dogs, a good attitude can go a long way, but a bad one can go even further. If your dog knows how much you hate bath time, how can he get a positive, or at least tolerable, opinion of the process? Keep your attitude high and don't let up on the praise.

Lather up, rinse and repeat (the biggest mistake most people make is not rinsing well enough -- it makes the coat dull and flaky). Follow up with a conditioner or detangler if your pet's coat needs either. Rinse throughly a final time.

Hold a towel over your dog loosely while he shakes. Your dog can get more water off by shaking than you can by toweling. So let him have at it, and then finish the job by rubbing him dry when he's done. (Forced-air dog dryers start at less than $100 and can be a wonderful investment for a dog owner, especially those with long-haired pets.)

Don't let your dog outside until he's dry, so he won't roll in something yucky and undo the work you've done.

And what about felines? While cats -- especially shorthaired ones -- generally do a pretty good job of keeping themselves well-groomed, if you have an allergy sufferer in the house, a weekly bath (or just a rinse with clean water) will help to keep the allergen levels to more manageable levels.

 My cat gets a weekly bath because of my allergies. He doesn't like being bathed, but since I started him as a kitten he will tolerate it, more or less.

Q&A

Set the stage

for new love

Q: My dog doesn't like new people, but I have jumped into online dating with an eye to get married. When I meet someone, what's the best way to handle it so my dog accepts a significant other? -- via email

A: Meeting the family of a significant other is a major step in a relationship -- and introducing a significant other to your much-adored dog can be just as nerve-wracking. Both dogs and cats can be territorial and unhappy about change, but dogs are more likely to be possessive when it comes to their home turf, which includes their owners. So the new person in the household is often automatically associated with something negative, like the time and affection that you are suddenly lavishing on your date instead of your dog.

The good news is that there are several ways to help your dog not only tolerate such an interloper, but also gladly welcome him or her into the household. Before introducing your dog to a significant other, bring home something that your boyfriend or girlfriend has worn, like a T-shirt used for sleeping. Let your pup sniff the item first, and then present your dog with a reward, such as a game of fetch, a walk or dinner. By pairing the smell of your new partner with something positive, your dog begins to associate that person with good things before they even meet. You can also say your significant other's name out loud before you present the item and the reward, repeating this process several times.

When you're ready for the actual introduction, opt for neutral territory, like the park or an outdoor cafe. And let your dog approach your date first, while he or she stands sideways to the dog, avoiding direct eye contact. Supply your date with extra-special treats cut into bite-size pieces -- cooked chicken breast, turkey hot dogs or steak -- that he or she can feed the dog. If your pup is more timid, tossing the treats on the ground will suffice.

Once your dog has taken a few treats directly from your date's hand, do something that your dog really enjoys, such as going to the dog park or beach. Each time your dog looks up at your partner, have your partner offer a treat. Repeat this until your date is able to pet the dog, and continue to reward the pup with treats after every few strokes. You should stand nearby to supervise, but stay in the background, so the main affection that your dog receives comes from your significant other. If your dog relaxes and appears to enjoy the presence of your date, either walk back to your house together or ride in the same car. Once inside the house, have your partner hand the dog a favorite long-lasting chew or play a game of fetch.

For the first few visits, you should meet on neutral territory, such as the sidewalk or front lawn. And always say your partner's name as he or she approaches, allowing your date to reward the dog with treats, a game or a walk. If your dog shows discomfort, extreme stress or aggression at any point during the meet-and-greet with your partner, contact your veterinarian for additional advice. -- Mikkel Becker

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

THE BUZZ

A healthy pet

is worth the bill

-- Although a quarter of people say their greatest worry about their pet is that the animal will get sick, less than half that number are concerned about the cost of veterinary care, according to a survey of 1,500 pet owners by PetMD. The survey also found that 34 percent of owners were able to say they knew what was best for their pet's health.

In other findings, 15 percent said they would automatically buy a product from a company that endorses a charity than from a competitor that did not. Two-thirds of those polled would not vote for a presidential candidate if they sensed he or she did not like pets, and nine in 10 would fight with more passion over a pet than over money in a divorce.

-- Ten years after the 9/11 attacks, canine rescuers show significantly less damaging health effects compared to humans who were involved in the rescue effort. According to a study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, the dogs did not develop problems with their lungs and sinuses in the aftermath, unlike the respiratory effects that have intensely affected humans with reactive airway diseases, including asthma and sinusitis. The majority of dogs received only minor scrapes and cuts, even though they were not wearing protective gear.

-- Chimpanzees will "fake laugh" for the sake of social bonding, similar to the way people do. A study searched chimpanzee laughing and found that when one chimp laughed, other chimps will respond with a sound that didn't match the full acoustic structure of real laugh, meaning they were actually faking it. The fake laughing was most likely to occur in newly formed colonies where chimps likely were not as familiar with each other.

-- Dr. Marty Becker and Mikkel Becker

ABOUT PET CONNECTION

Pet Connection is produced by a team of pet-care experts headed by "Good Morning America" and "The Dr. Oz Show" veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker and award-winning journalist Gina Spadafori. The two are affiliated with Vetsteet.com and also the authors of many best-selling pet-care books. Dr. Becker can also be found at Facebook.com/DrMartyBecker or on Twitter at DrMartyBecker.

Pets seem to enjoy fall as much, if not more, than we do. They all seem to perk up as the evenings get cooler. With their incredible eyesight, cats find interest in the early darkness, and dogs love being able to go for walks without enduring the heat.  

We need to remember, though, that fall means winter is coming, and we must remind ourselves of what that means when it comes to caring for our pets.

When I was growing up, pets spent most if not all their lives outside. In my lifetime, they've gone from the barnyard to the backyard to the back porch to the bedroom. That old saying about "being in the dog house"? In our family, "the dog house" is the same one we enjoy, and that's true of most people these days.

But some people still do have outside pets, and for them more than any others, the shift to colder weather means they need you to look out for them and make sure they're ready for the change.

All animals must be able to get out of the elements. A pet must have a well-insulated structure just large enough so that he can curl up inside to maintain body heat. The structure should also have a wind-block to protect it from wintry blasts. In the coldest parts of the country, it should also have some sort of outdoor-rated pet-heating pad or other device. And be sure that there's always a supply of fresh, unfrozen water by using a heated bowl.

Animals who spend any significant amount of time outside will need more calories during cold weather. Food is fuel, and they'll need to burn it to stay warm.

I'd prefer you make your pets part of the family by bringing them inside. But if you can't, you certainly must pay attention to their changing needs regardless.

Indoor pets don't face the weather challenges outdoor pets do, but winter can be uncomfortable for them as well.

For pets with arthritis, cold weather can be more painful, so ask your veterinarian about supplements or prescription medications that may help your pet feel better. A soft, heated bed may be much appreciated, too, especially by older pets. And remember that one of the best things you can do for a pet with joint problems is to keep the extra weight off: A pet who's more sedentary in winter needs to eat less.

What about sweaters and coats for dogs? Some animals really can use the extra insulation of a well-fitted sweater: older pets, and dogs who are tiny (such as Chihuahuas), or who are shorthaired and naturally lean (such as greyhounds or whippets). Overcoats can save you time drying your dog after a walk in inclement weather, especially if your pet's longhaired. And don't forget to wipe your pets' feet, legs and belly after they've been outside to keep the animal from ingesting any de-icing solutions. If you live in an urban area where de-icing solutions are a constant, boots for your pet can make protecting him easier.

Because home heating systems can dry out the air, you and your pets may be more comfortable if you introduce some humidity. Pet birds, especially those species originating in tropical climates, will enjoy extra opportunities for bathing or being misted. Dry air also may be a factor in feather-picking, in which birds strip their own feathers off and become an unsightly mess.

Final cold-weather cautions: Remember to thump on your car's hood on cold mornings. You neighbor's cat may be nestled against the engine for warmth, and thumping your car's hood will get the animal to skeedaddle to safety. Inside, check your dryer before you add clothes and turn it on, in case your cat is snuggled inside.

Cold-weather pet care is a matter of compassion and common sense. Use both in equal measure, and your pet will get through the worst of the season in fine shape.

Q&A

Moving cats means

keeping close tabs

Q: I am moving with my pets to an apartment. The last time we moved, the dog was fine, but the cat went missing. We found her in our old neighborhood, but there's a freeway between the new place and the old this time. How can we keep her safe? -- via email

A: The best way to move with your cat is to confine him before and after moving day in a "safe room."

Choose a room where your cat isn't going to be disturbed, and outfit it with food and water, a litter box, a scratching post, a bed and toys.

Confining your cat not only reduces his stress, but also prevents him from slipping out, which is a danger at both the old home and the new. As you've experienced, your cat could easily become scared, take off and get lost, even in his familiar neighborhood, if he gets disoriented.

Your cat should be confined in his safe room the day before packing begins, moved to his new home in a carrier, and then confined again in his new safe room until the moving is over, the furniture arranged and most of the dust settled.

Trying to force a scared and stressed-out cat to do anything he doesn't want to do is hazardous to your health. After you arrive at your new home, don't pull your cat out of his carrier. Instead, put the carrier in his safe room, open the carrier door, and let him come out into the room when he wants to. After he's a little calmer, you can coax him out with some fresh food or treats if you want. But don't rush him and don't drag him out -- or you may be bitten or scratched.

When you have the rest of the house settled, open the door to the safe room and let your cat explore his new home -- on his terms. If your cat has been an indoor-outdoor pet, moving is the best time to convert him to indoor-only, because he won't fret about territory he never had. -- Gina Spadafori

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

THE BUZZ

Dental issues

plague our pets

-- Dental disease affects an estimated 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats by the time they are 2 years old, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Dental problems are about more than bad breath and ugly teeth: Dental disease puts pets at risk for other complications, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, kidney disease and other life-threatening conditions. By the way: Dogs have 42 teeth, humans have 32 and cats have 30.

-- Veterinary students are more likely to struggle with depression than are medical students. Kansas State University found that during the first year of veterinary school, 32 percent of veterinary students showed symptoms of depression compared to 23 percent of medical students. The majority of veterinary students are female, which could play a part in higher depression rates, since national studies show women are two to three times more likely to suffer from depression than are men.

-- The Guinness World Records 2012 Edition has named the dog with the longest ears. Harbor, an 8-year-old coonhound, has a left ear measuring 12.25 inches long and a right ear measuring 13.75 inches long. The previous winner was a bloodhound named Tigger with a 13.5-inch left ear and a 13.75-inch right ear. -- Dr. Marty Becker and Mikkel Becker

ABOUT PET CONNECTION

Pet Connection is produced by a team of pet-care experts headed by "Good Morning America" and "The Dr. Oz Show" veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker and award-winning journalist Gina Spadafori. The two are affiliated with Vetsteet.com and also the authors of many best-selling pet-care books. Dr. Becker can also be found at Facebook.com/DrMartyBecker or on Twitter at DrMartyBecker.