TEACHING A DOG TO RELAX IN CONFINEMENT IS ESSENTIAL FOR A HAPPY LIFE

There's nothing harder for a young puppy to learn than being alone. Dogs are social animals, just as we are. And when you bring a puppy home you're not only asking him to do something for which he isn't really wired, but also to do it for the first time, under the stressful circumstances of being in the new home.

Under those conditions, you'd scream, too. Especially if past experience had shown you that vocalizing brought your mom and littermates on the run. Alone? Scared? Scream, and you'll be surrounded by help.

And yet, the ability to relax alone is a critical skill for a modern dog. Being able to relax while isolated in a comfortable carrier is essential to riding safely in a car, resting after medical care at the veterinary hospital, and even being cared for away from home by strangers during times of disaster.

On the flip side, dogs who don't learn to stay alone are at higher risk of losing their homes or even their lives.

Veterinary behaviorists call the problem "separation anxiety," and see it in their practices constantly. Some dogs may be capable of learning not to be frantically destructive and noisy when alone through changes in their environment, behavior modification and medications such as Prozac. Others may suffer throughout their lives, even if they stay in their homes.

For all these reasons and more, it's essential to "crate train" a puppy. While crate-training has long been used to shape the equally important behavior we know as "house-breaking," the use of a crate to teach relaxed confinement is just as important.

There's a puppy at my house now, a retriever named Riley. I'm raising him for a couple of months before he goes to live with friends, and that means he's now learning many of his first, most important "grown-up" lessons at my house, including crate-training.

I know some people "cold turkey" a pup when it comes to crate-training, but I don't think that's necessary. While I never open the pen or crate door on a screaming puppy (and thus reward him for the noise), I set him up for a whole lot of "win."

With Riley, as with any young puppy, that means making sure he's tired or has just been fed before being crated, making it more likely he'll sleep.

I make the sessions short, and add a word and a treat to him going in. "Crate!" I say, throwing a toy or treat in and praising him for following the motion to go inside. Before he's ready to wake up, I wake him up and take him out for a walk.

I also alternate between putting him in the crate in my office while I'm working or the pen in the living room while I'm watching TV in the evenings. The pen is harder for him to endure, because it's around the corner from where I sit and he can't see me from there.

I prefer letting him fuss in the pen, since being distracted from a rerun of "The Big Bang Theory" is something I can live with short term. For someone self-employed, however, not being able to work because a puppy is crying is a much bigger deal. Fortunately, the crate in my office is right next to my leg, which means he's "behind bars" and learning, but not particularly isolated.

Like any normal puppy, Riley wants to be where the people and other dogs are. He's learning quickly that that's not always possible. This lesson takes time, and I'm patient.

I know that soon Riley will know that being alone isn't forever, and that's as important a lesson as any dog can learn.

Q&A

Are 'kiddie pools'

safe for dog play?

Q: Our friends keep a blue plastic pool -- the kind you buy for toddlers -- in the yard for their dog. Is this safe? -- via Facebook

A: 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 as well.

Safe? If used under supervision, with both pool and water kept clean, then absolutely.

These 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 to choose the hard-plastic variety; the inflatable kind doesn't hold up well to dog claws.)

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.

If you want something bigger and sturdier, check out the selection at your nearest feed store. Hard-plastic stock tanks are excellent pools for dogs (and yes, for kids as well). Be sure to keep it small enough that you can dump it out regularly for cleaning and refilling. At my house, a Rubbermaid 50-gallon stock tank works perfectly for canine use and shows no signs of wear after several seasons. -- Gina Spadafori

Do you have a pet question? Send it to petconnection@gmail.com or visit Facebook.com/DrMartyBecker.

THE BUZZ

House bill seeks fix

for mobile pet care

-- The Veterinary Medicine Mobility Act of 2013 (H.R. 1528) seeks to fix an unintended bug in the Controlled Substances Act that marks mobile veterinarians as lawbreakers because they carry drugs used to treat animal pain and end suffering. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration had historically looked the other way when it came to veterinarians doing the work they need to do. The American Veterinary Medical Association is asking pet owners to contact their members of Congress to ask for support. As it stands, the law puts at risk providing veterinary care for animals in homes (including the practice of at-home euthanasia), on farms and in disaster-relief situations. It may also keep mobile spay-neuter clinics from rolling.

-- While you can't -- and probably never will be able to -- deduct your pet as you can a human dependent, you actually may be able to deduct some animal-related expenses when figuring out your taxes. The San Jose Mercury-News notes that a landmark 2011 ruling allows people who foster pets for 501(c)3 shelters or rescue groups to deduct their related expenses. People with service animals or working dogs can also deduct costs related to the care of those animals. If you need to move because of your job, the cost of moving your pets may be deductible as part of your moving expenses. Check with a tax-preparation professional to see what deductions apply in your case.

-- Four men in the Miami area have attracted attention for a novel building project: They're replicating Noah's Ark. The Miami Herald reports the men say the project will cost $1.5 million, and they hope it will serve as a tourist attraction on the outskirts of Hialeah. While Noah built his ark without official intervention, local officials say the project needs a building permit. The lower deck has been completed, but the time frame for completion is flexible, to say the least. -- Dr. Marty Becker and Gina Spadafori

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 Vetstreet.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.

ADULT DOGS CAN BE PERFECT MATCHES FOR MANY FAMILIES

In recent years we've seen a shift in attitude when it comes to adopting an adult dog. "Recycled rovers" used to be a "hard sell," not only because puppies have the "cute factor" advantage, but also because many people believed adult dogs were less likely than puppies to bond with a new family.

Rescue groups, shelters, veterinarians and trainers alike have long argued that's not the case, and the message has gotten through: Adult dogs are now widely considered a wonderful adoption option, especially for people who aren't in a good position to raise a puppy.

When choosing an adult dog, however, you need to ask questions and then think about the answers. While expecting to work on some things as your new dog gets used to you is reasonable, you want to make sure that you know what you're getting into when it comes to such things as health, behavior and even shedding. There are no wrong answers, but here are some questions to ask about any dog you're considering adopting:

-- What do you know of this dog's history? You may be dealing with a shelter, a rescue volunteer, the dog's original owner or breeder, or a nice person who found a stray. While it's certainly possible for a dog found as a stray to be a perfect candidate for "rehoming," knowing a dog's history is usually helpful when it comes to predicting his potential future in your home.

-- Why is this dog available for adoption? Dogs become available for lots of reasons. "Losing our home," "divorce" and "death" don't reflect badly on the dog; "bit our daughter" should give you pause, at the very least. Listen, too, for what isn't said: "He needs more exercise than we can give him" may mean a dog with exercise requirements only a marathoner could meet, or it could mean the previous owners really wanted a dog with the exercise requirements of a stuffed animal. When in doubt, ask more questions.

-- What behavior problems does this dog have? What health problems? Many things are fixable and worth considering if you honestly believe you'll take the time to work with the dog. Remember, too, that some problems don't need anything more than a dose of common sense to fix. "Won't stay in the yard," for example, may be easily cured by a decent fence and neutering. As for health, some dogs (like some people) need daily medication for chronic conditions, which might be a problem in some families.

-- How is he with children? Other dogs? Cats? Even if you don't have children, you're going to run into some from time to time. The same is true with other dogs. You can successfully avoid cats if you don't have them, but make certain your prospective pet at least tolerates them well if you do share your home with a cat or two. As for dogs with aggression issues, in many cases these can be worked out, but you may need the help of good trainer or behaviorist, plus a dedication of time and money.

Love is not enough for a good match. While almost any dog can be successfully rehomed with experienced, patient new owners, dogs with severe problems are usually not good projects for beginners. You'll be happier and better able to offer your dog a great new home if you take your time to make sure the fit is a good one. Follow your head as well as listen to your heart, and you'll be off to a great start on a new life with the adopted dog you finally choose.

In recent years we've both taken adult dogs into our homes, including ones with health or behavior problems. Because we knew what we were getting and knew what we could deal with, everything worked out just fine. And it can for you, too.

Q&A

Puppies need mom

past weaning age

Q: What is the right age to take home a puppy? We are looking at a litter the breeder says will be weaned and ready to go at four weeks, which seems young to us. -- via Facebook

A: Behaviorists have known for decades that puppies pick up some very important lessons from their mom and their littermates well after the time when they are weaned. They not only learn the complex social language that will help them get along with people and other dogs, but they also learn skills that set the stage for teaching them the manners all dogs need.

The earliest these experts say puppies should leave their siblings and mom is seven weeks, but many good breeders hold them even longer, up to 12 weeks, while providing them with individual attention, house-training lessons and even the beginnings of reward-based obedience training.

If you cannot convince the seller to keep the puppies together longer, my suggestion is to find another breeder, one well-versed in the developmental stages of dogs and the breeder's important role in raising puppies properly. Or go to a good shelter, where young puppies are placed with others of their age and socialized by savvy volunteers.

Choosing the right source for your pup is just as important as choosing the right breed or mix. A seller who isn't patient enough or doesn't know enough to provide puppies with the proper foundation for a lifetime of good habits is one best avoided. -- Gina Spadafori

Do you have a pet question? Send it to petconnection@gmail.com or visit Facebook.com/DrMartyBecker.

THE BUZZ

Texas court affirms:

Pets are 'property'

-- In a ruling watched around the nation, the Texas Supreme Court denied the ability to sue for emotional damages in the death of a pet. In overturning a lower court's ruling, the state's high court confirmed the status of an animal as property by law, saying compensation for a death "is limited to loss of value, not loss of relationship." The case concerned a lost dog who'd been mistakenly killed at an animal shelter despite a "hold for owner" tag on the cage. Efforts are underway to get the law changed to recognize the value of animal companions beyond property, including in Florida, where Tampa veterinarian Dr. Kenneth Newman is trying to find legislative support for his proposed Gracie's Law. Dr. Newman is at odds with veterinary trade associations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association, which argued against a change in status in the Texas case.

-- The University of Pennsylvania's School of Veterinary Medicine is testing a drug that may treat bone cancer in dogs -- and subsequently, in humans. The treatment uses modified listeria bacteria to teach the immune system to attack cancer cells. The study is part of a growing trend to develop trials in hopes of developing effective treatments for people and pets simultaneously.

-- The increased acceptance of marijuana use, and the formulation of the drug's active ingredient in so-called "edibles" such as candies and baked goods, has perhaps not surprisingly led to reports of increases in the numbers of dogs ending up stoned at the veterinarian's. One emergency practice in Oregon told the Portland Oregonian that marijuana cases have doubled to about one-fifth of all canine toxicity visits. Clinical signs of marijuana ingestion in dogs include a "drunken" stagger and dribbling urine. Most pets recover after treatment with no after-affects. -- Dr. Marty Becker and Gina Spadafori

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 Vetstreet.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.

FOUNTAINS, WET FOOD HELP PREVENT FELINE URINARY PROBLEMS

For a healthier cat, add water. No, not to the outside -- your cat will happily bathe himself -- but to the inside. Encouraging increased fluid intake is one of the best things you can do to keep your cat healthy, along with keeping him at the proper weight.

Combined, these two preventive-care strategies cost little and can save lots, by helping to prevent a common malady that can be a serious problem for cats and their owners -- feline lower urinary tract disease, or FLUTD.

FLUTD often causes cats to urinate outside the litter box, a classic warning sign of illness that you can see -- and smell. Other symptoms include straining to urinate, crying out in the box or going more frequently.

While FLUTD may strike any age or gender of cats, it is more frequently seen in middle-aged and overweight cats. Factors that increase the risk include lack of exercise, stress and chronic dehydration.

Tips for avoiding FLUTD include:

-- Hydration. Some cats will drink more if the water seems fresh, such as with fountains that keep the water filtered and circulating. You can find these at any good pet-supply store, or search for "cat drinking fountain" online.

-- Chill your cat out. Decrease stress in the environment by providing your cat with scratching posts, window perches or kitty condos, and by playing active games with him. Pheromones such as Feliway also help keep cats calm.

-- Keep home sweet home. Be more aware of changes in your cat when there are changes in your life such as new pets, a home remodel or a move. Provide your cat with a quiet room with all the amenities during a transition.

-- Switch to "wet food." Canned diets have higher water content than dry ones, and their palatability ensures that cats will take in more water with their meals. If you can't completely switch, cut back on kibble and offer canned as a complement.

-- Breaking up meals. Feed your cat several small meals during the day instead of one or two larger meals. Even better: Help keep your cat active by hiding food, either placing the bowls around the house or tucking food into special toys called "food puzzles."

-- Feed for health. Ask your veterinarian if therapeutic diets for urinary tract health are appropriate for your cat. These foods contain clinically proven antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and controlled levels of minerals and vitamins to maintain a precise urine pH, and work to help treat or prevent FLUTD.

Above all, make sure your cat stays at a healthy weight. Fat cats are a good thing only if they're cartoon cats. For real-life ones, obesity leads to FLUTD and other serious health problems, such as diabetes. If you're not sure if your cat is at proper weight, ask your veterinarian at your cat's wellness exam.

Once you know the weight your cat should be, you can then weigh him weekly by holding him, weighing the both of you, then weighing yourself without him.

Keep a simple log of your pet's weight and any changes so you stay ahead of any potential problems. And keep that fountain clean, so your cat will keep drinking!

Q&A

Put string away

if cats at play

Q: Our cat had to have surgery after she ate a ribbon after a birthday party. I had no idea! Would you please tell people to be careful? She could have died. -- via Facebook

A: One thing I love about pet lovers is their willingness to help others keep their pets safe. So, thank you for helping!

Kittens and cats love playing with yarn, as well as string, ribbon and anything that twists and dances. They like to stalk, to pounce, to flip their slender prey in the air, and to start stalking again. That's all good clean fun, but there's always a chance that your cat won't stop with play and will decide to eat his plaything. And that's where the fun stops, because any sort of yarn, ribbon, Christmas tinsel or string can cause havoc in your cat's intestines, causing a problem that may need to be surgically treated.

If you knit or sew, put your supplies securely away when you're done with them, and if you're opening or wrapping packages, clean up after you're finished. Packing material such as foam peanuts also can be a health hazard for your pet.

Chewing on electrical cords is more of a risk for inquisitive kittens, but protecting your grown-up cat against them wouldn't hurt, either. Tuck all cords out of the way. And if you notice some that you can't hide are attracting kitty teeth, coat them in something nasty, such as Bitter Apple (available at pet-supply stores), to convince your cat or kitten to chomp elsewhere.

Even if your pet's not really the playful type, she may find one kind of string irresistible: juice-soaked string from a roast or turkey. Dispose of these tempting dangers carefully, putting them in a container that your cat can't get into.

For the cat who loves to chase things, get a "cat fishing pole" and play with her. It's good bonding for you both, and good exercise for your cat. When you're done playing, though, put the toy where she can't get it. -- Dr. Marty Becker

Do you have a pet question? Send it to petconnection@gmail.com or visit Facebook.com/DrMartyBecker.

THE BUZZ

Bunnies hop to it

in latest pet sport

-- The sport of dog agility began 25 years ago as an exhibition at Crufts, the English dog show that is the world's largest. Based on the equine sport of show jumping, canine agility has grown to be extremely popular worldwide, and has itself inspired some spin-off sports. One of the newest is aimed at pet rabbits, who are trained to hop a series of jumps while on leash. The first championship event was held in Switzerland in 2011, with more than 50 rabbits competing. The sport has since started attracting participants in the United Kingdom and the United States.

-- Banfield Pet Hospital, best known for operating within Petsmart stores, is experimenting with stand-alone practices, opening a handful of them in the Portland, Ore., area with plans for more. VIN News reports that the move isn't any indication that the alliance is changing between the two powerful pet-industry players. Banfield told VIN News that it is placing hospitals where it thinks they will do well, but where there aren't currently Petsmart locations.

-- 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, almost a quarter say that they would think about quitting for the good of their pets. -- Dr. Marty Becker and Gina Spadafori

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 Vetstreet.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.