If your dad prefers to keep Rocket, suggest he replace his neck collar with a head collar to improve control. Gentle Leader and Halti are popular brands.
Encourage your father to sign up for puppy kindergarten, a group obedience and socialization class that will help him teach Rocket to walk by his side without pulling, come when he’s called, and refrain from jumping on people. Your dad should continue positive-reinforcement, reward-based classes for at least a couple of years, until Rocket mellows into adulthood.
Rocket may be easier to live with, especially during his puppy and adolescent years, if he can run off his extra energy. If your dad has a fenced yard, he can throw a ball for Rocket to fetch. You or one of your dad’s neighbors may enjoy jogging with the dog. Or your father can hire a dog walker or take Rocket to a doggy day care that offers plenty of activity.
A dog brings many gifts, among them social connection and increased exercise for your dad. Help him find ways to make the most of this new relationship.
As many as 60,000 to 120,000 hairs adorn every square inch of a cat’s skin, and many are in the process of being released at a given time. Outdoor cats shed heavily during the spring and fall in response to changes in temperature and daylight. If Cupcake lives indoors, he likely sheds throughout the year because temperature and lighting are consistent.
It’s not uncommon for cats to shed profusely when they’re stressed, such as when they ride in the car to the animal hospital or someone new visits the home.
The most common reasons for a pet to lose so much hair that the skin shows through are fleas and other parasites, ringworm and other fungal infections, bacterial infections, and hormonal imbalances. Fleas irritate cats and bite people, and ringworm is contagious to pet and human family members, so contact your veterinarian if Cupcake develops any bald patches.
Otherwise, brush him regularly to remove any loose hairs before they’re deposited on your clothes and furniture.
