Heloise

Dear Readers: November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month. This month is dedicated to helping older pets find their forever homes. When most people decide to add a furry, funny friend to the family, they think of puppies and kittens.

But, what about an older dog or cat? Senior pets often spend a long time in shelters or rescues waiting to be adopted, if they are adopted at all. They deserve a second chance.

The shelter may offer a lower adoption fee for a senior dog or cat. Keep in mind that senior pets may have health challenges and will need regular vet care, including a dental exam and bloodwork. However, an older pet is calmer, usually housebroken and just looking for a warm lap to snuggle into. So please, check out the senior dogs and cats at your shelter or rescue group. – Heloise

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PET PAL

Dear Heloise: Kenny is my 3-year-old rescue kitty at 16.2 lbs. and over three feet long. He is half Maine Coon and half Siamese. When his previous owners found out he had a urinary tract blockage, they told the vet to put him down. The vet did the surgery and gave him to a rescue group. He loves to be cuddled and brushed. – Judy P., via email

Judy, Kenny is perfect for our discussion about Adopt a Senior Pet Week! He’s a doll, and just needed a second chance! So happy you were there for him. – Heloise

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GOT SKUNKED!

Dear Heloise: My daughter’s dog and a skunk met in the backyard in the early hours of the morning. The dog wound up smelling like a skunk. How should the dog be cared for and how does one get rid of the smell? – Janice L. Smalley, via email

Janice, what a nasty-smelling experience! Here’s what you can do:

You might want to bring this project outside if it’s warm enough. This is a stinky, messy process. In a bucket, mix 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup baking soda and 1 teaspoon liquid soap.

Rub the mixture well into your dog’s coat, avoiding the eyes and ears. Leave it on for at least five minutes, then rinse really well. If you still smell the odor, repeat the process. Hopefully, this will do the trick. You might want to do a final wash with your dog shampoo. – Heloise