Predictability, patience, and praise. These things go hand in hand for successful house-training. Here's how to get your pup to go where he's supposed to:

 

• Set a schedule. Plan to feed and walk him at the same time every day.
• Stick to the menu. Don’t change his diet. And give the same amount at each meal. No table scraps!
• Pick a spot. Right after eating, take him out to the same spot each time. After he does his business, heap on the praise!
• If you catch him in the act . . . don’t have a cow. Firmly tell your pup “No!” or “Stop,” and take him to his designated area -- and remember to praise him when he goes. If you see an accident after the fact, never drag your pup back to the crime scene. He will be confused and hurt, which could set back all of your hard work.

The first 7 to 12 weeks of puppyhood is the ideal time to begin house-training -- that's when your little guy can learn best. But at this age, pups can't fully control their bladders, and accidents will happen. So that throw rug you spent a mint on . . . better put it in a safe place!


 

Chances are you'll outlive your cat. But what would happen to your kitty if you didn't?

Sadly, an estimated 500,000 pets are euthanized each year because their owners have died and the pets end up with no one to care for them.

So make the best plan you can for your pet in your absence. One option is to set up a pet trust.

What Does a Pet Trust Do?
You can't legally leave money directly to a pet in a traditional will, but a pet trust is a legally binding document that allows you to:

1.	Set aside money to be used for the continued care of your pet if something happens to you and you're no longer able to tend to its needs.
2.	Provide detailed, written instructions for the continued care of your cat.
3.	Designate a caregiver to take over guardianship of your cat or to find her a new, permanent home.
4.	Appoint a trustee to make sure your funds are used according to your written instructions.

Contact an estate attorney to help answer any questions you have about setting up a pet trust.