One of the most common mistakes I see children make around animals isn’t because they’re being unkind.

It’s because they’re excited.

A child spots a friendly-looking dog across the room and immediately reaches out to pet him. Another sees a cat sitting quietly on the couch and scoops her up without a second thought. Their intentions are good. They simply want to say hello.

But from the animal’s perspective, that enthusiastic greeting may feel very different.

Imagine meeting a stranger who rushes toward you, reaches for your face, and immediately wraps you in a hug. Most of us would instinctively step back. We might even feel startled or uncomfortable.

Animals can feel the same way.

One of the very first lessons I teach during my humane education programs is simple:

Let the dog or cat come to you.

It’s a lesson that takes only a few seconds to explain, yet it has the potential to prevent bites and scratches while helping children build respectful relationships with animals that can last a lifetime.

Dogs and cats, like people, appreciate having a choice. When we allow them to approach us at their own pace, they have an opportunity to gather information. They can sniff, observe, and decide whether they’re comfortable interacting. That simple act of waiting communicates something important.

“I respect your space.”

Children understand this concept surprisingly well. When I explain that animals have feelings too—that they can feel excited, nervous, overwhelmed, curious, or uncertain—they begin to see the interaction from the animal’s point of view. The lesson is no longer about memorizing safety rules. It’s about understanding another living being.

I’ve watched children who were eager to rush toward every dog suddenly stop, smile, and patiently wait for the dog to approach. Instead of reaching first, they let curiosity replace impulse.

The amazing thing is that many dogs respond by choosing to come closer. Trust begins with choice. That’s an important lesson for children. When we teach children to give animals space, we’re teaching much more than dog safety or cat behavior. We’re helping them recognize that every living being deserves to feel safe and respected.

Compassion doesn’t begin with petting a dog. Sometimes it begins with waiting. Sometimes it begins with understanding that kindness isn’t always about doing something. Sometimes it’s about giving someone else the choice.

When understanding comes first, compassion follows. 

]]> https://cathyrosenthal.com/blog/2026/07/01/compassion-can-be-taught-lesson-1-let-dogs-and-cats-come-to-you/feed/ 0 https://cathyrosenthal.com/blog/2026/06/16/before-you-worry-about-screwworm-read-this/ https://cathyrosenthal.com/blog/2026/06/16/before-you-worry-about-screwworm-read-this/#respond Tue, 16 Jun 2026 20:25:33 +0000 https://cathyrosenthal.com/?p=17643 As someone who lives in the Texas Hill Country, I’ve been following developments surrounding New World screwworm with particular interest. Over the past several weeks, news of confirmed screwworm cases in Texas has generated understandable concern among ranchers, veterinarians, and pet owners. After all, any parasite described as “flesh-eating” sounds like something straight out of a horror movie.

But before you start inspecting your dog every five minutes or canceling your hiking plans (your dog loves to hike), let’s talk about what pet owners really need to know.

One reason screwworm feels especially close to home for those of us in the Hill Country is that Kerrville has long played an important role in the fight against it. For decades, scientists at the USDA research facility in Kerrville helped develop and refine the techniques that eventually eradicated screwworm from the United States. Today, that work continues at the newly opened Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory right here in Kerrville.

So what exactly is screwworm? Unlike common maggots that feed on dead tissue, screwworm larvae feed on living tissue. The adult fly seeks out wounds, lays eggs, and when those eggs hatch, the larvae burrow into the wound and begin feeding. Left untreated, the infestation can become serious very quickly.

The good news is that the advice veterinarians give pet owners today is remarkably similar to what they’ve always given.

• Check your pets regularly, especially if they spend time outdoors. New World screwworm flies are attracted to open wounds, and those wounds do not have to be large. Something as small as a tick bite, scratch, puncture wound, surgical incision, or skin irritation can create an opening that deserves attention.
• Treat wounds promptly and monitor healing closely. Clean minor wounds as directed by your veterinarian and seek veterinary care for injuries that are deep, infected, slow to heal, or continue to drain. Following post-surgical instructions carefully is also important, as proper wound care reduces the risk of complications.
• Keep pets on year-round flea, tick, and parasite prevention. Preventing bites and skin irritation helps reduce the chances of wounds that could attract flies and other pests.
• Pay attention to anything that doesn’t look right. Check your pet regularly for unusual swelling, drainage, foul odors, areas of irritation, or wounds that seem larger than expected. Also watch for excessive licking, scratching, or discomfort. If something concerns you, contact your veterinarian rather than taking a wait-and-see approach.

The truth is that most responsible pet owners are already doing the very things that help protect their pets.

What concerns veterinarians most is not the family dog sleeping on the couch. It’s the animal with an untreated wound, the dog covered in ticks, the outdoor pet no one has looked at closely in weeks, or the pet recovering from surgery without close monitoring. Any wound that is not healing, appears infected, has an odor, produces drainage, or seems to be worsening rather than improving should be examined by a veterinarian. Good wound care has always been important, but with renewed attention on screwworm, it serves as another reminder that small skin problems can become larger ones when left untreated.

In other words, screwworm is less a reason to panic and more a reminder of why good pet care matters.

As someone who lives in Kerrville, I find it reassuring that some of the nation’s leading screwworm experts are literally in our backyard. Researchers, veterinarians, livestock producers, and government agencies are watching the situation closely.

For pet owners, the message remains simple: stay informed, stay observant, and continue doing what keeps your pets healthy every day.

Because while screwworms may be making headlines, good pet care remains your pet’s best defense.

by Cathy M. Rosenthal

I knew winter weather was on the way when I walked into the grocery store and discovered that the toilet paper and bottled water aisles had been hit hard. Apparently, we might be iced in or snowed in for a few days — and, once again, toilet paper was the first thing to go.

What surprised me wasn’t the empty shelves, though. It was how many people were clearly preparing for themselves without giving much thought to their pets. Are you stocked up on water for your animals? Do you have enough pet food on hand if roads become impassable for a day or two? While there seemed to be plenty of pet food still available, emergencies have a way of changing that quickly.

When cold weather arrives fast, it’s easy to focus on our own comfort and forget that pets depend on us to plan ahead. They don’t understand weather alerts or emergency warnings — they just know when they’re cold, uncomfortable, or confused by a sudden change in routine.

Cold snaps don’t always arrive gradually. Sometimes they move across the country quickly, catching people — and pets — off guard. Even in areas that don’t typically experience harsh winters, like Texas, sudden drops in temperature can put animals at real risk. When that happens, pets rely on us to make thoughtful, protective choices on their behalf.

The safest place for pets during cold weather is inside your home. Dogs should be brought indoors overnight, and cats who are usually allowed outside should be kept in until temperatures rise again. Even healthy, street-smart outdoor cats can struggle with cold, wind, and damp conditions.

When dogs do go outside, keep trips short and purposeful. Puppies, senior dogs, small dogs, and short-haired breeds lose body heat quickly. If your dog is shivering, lifting their paws, or reluctant to walk, those are signs they’re too cold. Yes, that small dog in a sweater probably needs it. Once back inside, dry pets thoroughly and wipe their paws to remove moisture, ice melt, and other residues that can irritate skin or be harmful if ingested.

For dogs who are not allowed inside the home, appropriate shelter is critical — and not all shelters are created equal. A proper option might be a garage, an enclosed porch, or a sturdy, insulated doghouse that blocks wind and stays dry. Bedding should be straw, which insulates even when damp. Blankets and towels can absorb moisture and freeze, making them dangerous in cold weather. Fresh water must be checked frequently to ensure it hasn’t iced over, and some pets may need slightly more food to maintain body heat, with guidance from a veterinarian.

Cats aren’t the only small animals affected by cold weather. Rabbits, in particular, are extremely vulnerable. Rabbits should never be left outside in hutches during cold snaps. Cold, drafts, and dampness can be life-threatening for them. Rabbits should be brought indoors or into a warm, protected space until temperatures stabilize.

It’s also important to be mindful of animals you don’t know. Outdoor cats often seek warmth under car hoods or near engines during cold weather. Knocking on the hood or tapping the car before starting it can prevent a tragic accident. If you notice a pet left outside in extreme cold without adequate shelter, reach out to local animal services, a humane society, or community resources for help.

Pay attention to signs of cold stress in any animal: shivering, lethargy, hunched posture, whining, slowed movement, or seeking heat sources. These are signals that conditions are unsafe and action is needed immediately.

Cold weather doesn’t have to be prolonged to be dangerous. A single night of exposure can lead to hypothermia, frostbite, or worse. Pets don’t understand weather alerts or forecasts. They understand comfort, safety, and trust.

What’s the rule: If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pets. Take a moment to make a cold-weather plan: bring pets inside, check shelter and water sources, and adjust routines as needed. These small steps can make a lifesaving difference.

Winter weather may move on quickly, but the choices we make during it matter. Our pets depend on us — and when the cold comes fast, they need us to show up even faster.

.

This time of year can be tough on people, and it can be just as hard on our pets. The holidays are over, routines have shifted again, the weather is colder, and the days can still feel heavy with darkness. Many people experience a version of the winter blues during January and February, even if they don’t call it that. Less daylight, more time indoors, and fewer spontaneous moments of joy can quietly affect our mood.

Our animals notice these changes too.

Changes in routine often show up in subtle ways. Dogs and cats may sleep more, play less, seem clingier, or withdraw a bit when daily rhythms shift. These responses are not signs of something being wrong—they’re normal expressions of adaptability. Animals thrive on predictability, and when schedules, activity levels, or household energy change, they adjust in the only ways they know how. What looks like a behavior problem is often just a response to a different pattern of living.

Dogs and cats are deeply attuned to the rhythms of our lives. When our schedules change, our energy dips, or the household feels quieter—or more tense—they feel it. A dog who seems clingier than usual, a cat who retreats under the bed, or a pet who sleeps more or plays less is often responding not to a problem, but to the season where everyone in the household has slowed down.

Winter naturally brings less stimulation. Walks may be shorter. Outdoor play may be limited by cold, ice, or snow. Windows stay closed. The world gets smaller. For indoor cats and dogs in snowy climates, especially, the change can feel abrupt. One day they’re sniffing every blade of grass or basking in sunny windows, and the next they’re navigating boots, coats, and a lot more time inside.

It’s also worth remembering that while winter can feel endless in the moment, we’ve already passed the most important milestone: the winter solstice. That means the darkest days are behind us. There is nothing but increasing light ahead.

Even if it doesn’t feel dramatic yet, the days are getting longer. The sun is slowly returning. That matters—to us and to our pets.

In the meantime, small adjustments can make a big difference. For dogs who are missing longer walks, short bursts of indoor play can help burn energy and lift spirits. A few minutes of tug, hide-and-seek with treats, or basic training games can be surprisingly effective. For cats, rotating toys, adding puzzle feeders, or even something as simple as a cardboard box can spark curiosity and movement.

Mental enrichment matters just as much as physical exercise, especially in winter. Sniffing games for dogs and hunting-style play for cats tap into natural behaviors that don’t require perfect weather. And sometimes, the most powerful thing you can offer is simply presence—sitting together, brushing, talking softly, or sharing a quiet moment.

It’s also okay to give yourself some grace. If you’re feeling slower or less motivated this time of year, you’re human. Your pets don’t need perfection. They need consistency, kindness, and reassurance—and those can show up in very simple ways.

One thing I hear often in January is worry. People wonder if their dog has become lazy, if their cat is depressed, or if they’ve somehow failed their pet. In most cases, what they’re seeing is normal seasonal adjustment. Behavior doesn’t exist in a vacuum; it’s shaped by environment, routine, and emotional climate.

As the light continues to return, you may notice subtle shifts. A little more energy. A little more curiosity. A little more playfulness. These changes often arrive quietly, just as winter settles in quietly.

So if your pet feels different right now, take a breath. Look at the calendar. Look at the light. This season is temporary.

Spring will come. Longer days are already on their way. Until then, a little patience, creativity, and compassion—for your pet and for yourself—can carry you both through.

Sometimes, simply understanding why things feel harder is enough to make them easier.

If your pet could write a letter to Santa, I doubt they’d ask for a new toy, sweater, or even those fancy holiday treats shaped like snowmen. They’d probably ask for something much simpler—like for you to stop moving their bed, lighting up strange objects in the living room, and inviting people over who keep calling them “Fluffy” when their name is clearly Max.

We love the holidays for the hustle, gatherings, laughter, lights, and full houses. But for our pets, it can feel like someone rearranged the universe without asking their opinion. Furniture gets moved. Suitcases appear. Relatives arrive. Doors open and close. Music gets louder. Schedules get later. Dinner smells change—sometimes for the better, sometimes… not so much.

Remember, pets don’t understand holidays. They understand routines.

So, when things start shifting—trees in living rooms, noisy doorbells, kids running around with wrapping paper stuck to their shoes—pets react in very normal ways. Some cling to us like Velcro. Some vanish under the bed until the New Year. And some—especially kittens and puppies—help us discover that ribbon, tinsel, and ornament hooks are not just decorations but also emergency vet visits waiting to happen.

This isn’t to say you shouldn’t decorate or celebrate. Just remember to give your pet their own version of holiday comfort:

• Keep one room quiet and clutter-free—a little retreat when the festivities get too festive.

• Use their regular bed, toys, and blankets, because familiar smells reassure them more than you know.

• Try to keep feeding and walking schedules consistent. Yes, even when you’re busy basting the turkey.

But there’s one more thing pets want during the holidays—something no cozy corner, scented candle, or calming treat can replace.

They still want you.

Not the hurried, “I’ll walk you when I finish wrapping gifts” version of you. Not the “just be good for one more hour” version. They want the present, calm, sit-down-and-scratch-my-ear version.

The good news? Pets don’t need all your time—they just need some intentional time.

Five minutes of undistracted ear scratching. A slow, snowy walk (before the driveway gets crowded with cars). A quiet evening on the couch after guests leave and dishes are piled high in the sink.

Because while we measure holidays by what we gave, cooked, hosted, or wrapped, our pets remember holidays in a much simpler way.

They remember who sat with them.
Who kept their routine.
Who made them feel safe when the world got busy and loud.

So this year, amid the lights and lists, give your pet three little gifts:

A safe, quiet space when they need a break
Their regular routine (or as close as you can manage)
Your calm, loving presence

Because when the decorations come down, and life goes back to normal, your pet won’t remember what was under the tree or near the menorah.

But they will remember who curled up beside it.

By Cathy M. Rosenthal

Dogs don’t understand Daylight Saving Time. Cats don’t know why it’s suddenly dark when their humans come home. And neither understands why their favorite walking buddy now says: “It’s too cold,” “It’s too dark,” or “Maybe tomorrow.”

Welcome to the time of year when pets start feeling a little bored. I’m not talking about “staring out the window watching squirrels” bored. I mean, “I’ve memorized every corner of this house, and I’m going to invent my own fun,” bored.

Pet parents often tell me that at this time of year, their dogs suddenly start chewing remote controls, barking at every little noise, or getting the “midnight zoomies”—running laps around the house when everyone else is trying to sleep. Cats get creative too, deciding to redecorate the living room with tissue boxes, unravel the toilet paper, or attack your feet under the blankets at 2 A.M.

Many people refer to these as behavior problems. But often, they’re really just signs of boredom, under-stimulation, and too much energy with nowhere to go. During spring and summer, pets get stimulation from open windows, weekend walks, yard time, squirrels, birds, and sunshine to observe. But in winter? We shut the doors, close the blinds, dim the lights, cancel long walks, and spend more time working, watching TV, and cooking cozy meals.

Our pets go from “sensory playground” to “bored out of their minds.” It’s not that they miss sunshine. They miss the stimulation – the walks, the outdoor play, and general exercise that comes when days are longer.

Pets need three kinds of stimulation to stay mentally and emotionally healthy:

1. Physical Exercise

Walking is not just about potty breaks. It’s about sniffing, exploring, seeing new things — it’s a dog’s version of checking social media. Even short walks matter. A 10-minute walk around the block can ease anxiety, reduce barking, and calm restless behavior. No time to walk? Try indoor fetch, hallway sprints, tug toys, or hide-and-seek. Yes, hide-and-seek is a real game you can play with your dog — hide behind a door, call their name, and watch them light up with joy when they find you. Giving them a treat will improve their “recall” training, too!

2. Mental Stimulation

Think of puzzle toys as crossword puzzles for pets. Food-dispensing toys, treat puzzles, snuffle mats, cardboard boxes for cats (at this time of year you can probably offer them a few different boxes a week), even hiding kibble around the house — all keep pets thinking, searching, solving, and working for a reward. Our pets need mental work, which can actually tire them out even more than physical exercise. That barking dog or door-scratching cat might just need something to do.

 3. Social & Emotional Interaction

Pets don’t just need toys. They need us. Five minutes of play, brushing, training, or snuggling with our pets can rebalance their mood faster than you think. Even independent cats benefit from planned play sessions — yes, even the aloof ones. What they are craving is an emotional connection, and both dogs and cats thrive on it.

So, if your normally well-behaved dog suddenly chews your slippers, or your mild-mannered cat starts climbing the curtains this time of year, ask yourself: Is this a behavior problem — or is this a lack of stimulation? Pets don’t destroy things to be naughty. They do it because they’re trying to entertain themselves. And honestly? They’re pretty good at it.

So make a point to offer your pet a little playtime, opportunities for movement, puzzle toys, and some physical connection with you every day. You’ll be surprised at how quickly a few small moments of engagement can ease their boredom. Your Apple Watch already prompts you to stand every hour—why not program it to remind you to give your pet a little attention, too?

By Cathy M. Rosenthal

It’s hard to resist those hopeful eyes peering out from a kennel at the shelter. In that instant, all you want to do is scoop up that dog or cat and bring them home. But adoption isn’t just a moment of compassion; it’s a commitment that lasts a lifetime. Adopting a pet is one of the most rewarding experiences we can have. It’s also one of the most life-changing. Bringing a dog or cat into your home isn’t just about finding a new companion. It’s about making a commitment that will affect every part of your daily life. Before you take the leap, here are five important things to ask yourself, drawn from my decades of work in animal welfare and my conversations with thousands of pet owners who have been exactly where you are today.

1. What are this pet’s medical needs—and can you afford them—today and in the future?
Every pet will require basic veterinary care: vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and annual checkups, which can cost hundreds of dollars a year. But beyond the basics, ask about this particular pet’s health. Has the dog had heartworm treatment? Does the cat have a chronic condition like feline asthma? Is the pet a breed that may face specific health risks down the road, such as hip dysplasia or breathing problems? Even a seemingly healthy pet may develop needs that require medication or more frequent vet visits. Understanding what you might face allows you to prepare emotionally and financially, and ensures you won’t feel blindsided later.

2. Am I ready for a lifelong commitment?
Dogs and cats are not short-term companions. Depending on the pet’s age when you adopt, you could be making a 10 to 20 year commitment. That means your “puppy” may still be with you when your children go off to college, or your adopted kitten may curl up beside you well into your retirement years. Pets depend on us completely for their care, and they thrive when they know they’re safe and loved in one forever home. Too often, I see pets surrendered because owners didn’t realize how long that “forever” could feel. Ask yourself: am I prepared to care for this animal through life’s changes, such as new jobs, moves, family additions, and aging?

3. Does this pet’s behavior and energy level match my lifestyle?
One of the top reasons pets are returned to shelters is a mismatch between their energy and their family’s lifestyle. That adorable herding dog puppy may grow into an athletic adult who needs hours of exercise daily. A quiet senior cat may not be the right match for a busy household with young kids. Shelters and rescues usually know a lot about their animals’ personalities, so don’t be afraid to ask. They want you to make a good match, too. Some questions you can ask them include: Do they enjoy other pets? Do they walk nicely on a leash? Are they high-energy or more of a couch companion? Being honest about your own energy level is just as important. It’s not fair to a dog who needs two long walks a day if you’re happiest curled up with a book. The right fit means less frustration for you and a happier life for your pet.

4. Can I afford the true cost of caring for a pet?
Beyond adoption fees, caring for a pet costs money. On average, a dog will cost $1,000 to $2,000 a year and a cat about $800 to $1,200. That includes food, veterinary care, preventatives, toys, grooming, and emergency costs that always seem to pop up. Over a lifetime, you could easily spend $15,000 to $25,000 or more, depending on the pet. I am not trying to scare you away. I am being realistic. Too many families are caught off guard by the expense of an unexpected vet bill or ongoing medication. Planning ahead ensures that when your pet needs care, you won’t be forced to choose between your wallet and your pet’s health.

5. How will this adoption affect my lifestyle and freedom?
This is the piece many people don’t think through until they’ve already brought a pet home. Pets are family, and that means they can’t be left behind without a plan. If you travel frequently, you’ll need to arrange for a pet sitter, a boarding kennel, or a trusted friend to care for your pet, sometimes at a significant expense. If you work long hours, you may need a dog walker or daycare. Even small lifestyle choices, like staying out late with friends, are different when you know a pet is waiting at home. Some apartments or homeowners’ associations restrict certain breeds or species. And of course, spontaneous weekend getaways are no longer so simple when you have to make arrangements for the dog. None of this means you shouldn’t adopt—it just means you need to go in with eyes wide open. Pets add immeasurable love and joy to our lives, but they also require planning and flexibility.

Adoption is not just about rescuing a pet; it’s about reshaping your life around a new family member. Ask yourself these five questions before you bring home that irresistible face from the shelter. When you know the responsibilities as well as the rewards, you’ll be better prepared to give your pet the safe, loving, forever home they deserve. And in return, you’ll gain the kind of unconditional love only a pet knows how to can give.

Dear Cathy,
We adopted our cat Jasper from a rescue group two years ago. He’s about four now and has always been a bit wild—definitely has some former street cat energy. He adjusted pretty well to indoor life, but recently he’s started waking us up between 3 and 4 a.m., chirping nonstop until someone lets him out. We’ve tried ignoring him, but he’s relentless. Lately, we’ve been putting him in the guest room at night, but that’s not a long-term solution. We have friends visiting next month, and we’re desperate for sleep. How do we convince Jasper to wait until morning? – Melanie

Dear Melanie,
Jasper’s early-morning antics are frustrating but not uncommon, especially for high-energy cats who spend time outdoors. Cats are naturally crepuscular, meaning they’re most active at dawn and dusk, which is great if you’re a mouse, not so great if you’re trying to sleep. But the good news is you can gently adjust his schedule and redirect his energy with some consistent changes.

Here are 5 things you can do to help Jasper (and you) sleep through the night:

1. Tire him out with daily playtime.
Boredom is often the hidden culprit behind those 3 a.m. wake-up calls. Try scheduling three 10-minute play sessions with Jasper each day—morning, late afternoon, and just before bedtime. Use wand toys, laser pointers, or soft balls that mimic prey. Cats thrive on the chase. The more you engage his body and brain, the more likely he’ll be to sleep soundly.

2. Add a grooming or snuggle routine.
Cats often relax after a gentle brushing. Including this in your evening routine not only builds your bond but also helps signal that it’s time to wind down. If grooming isn’t his thing, some quiet lap time or a soft blanket by your side can help him settle.

3. Use puzzle feeders or solo-play toys overnight.
Leave out a few interactive toys or puzzle feeders to keep Jasper busy while you sleep. Puzzle toys are specially designed objects that challenge your cat to figure out how to get a treat or kibble out—by batting, rolling, or manipulating the toy in different ways. They tap into your cat’s natural hunting instincts and provide mental stimulation, which helps reduce boredom and nighttime restlessness. Be sure to rotate the toys every few days to keep things interesting. A bored cat will find his own entertainment—often by waking you up!

4. Set an automatic feeder to pre-dawn.
If Jasper expects food at 3 a.m., give it to him. Try setting an automatic feeder to open around 2:45 a.m. This keeps the attention off you and can reset his internal clock. After eating, many cats are content to go back to sleep. Within two nights, he will be sitting by the feeder — and not your bed — waiting for it to open. Eventually, you can gradually shift the time later and later.

5. Try supervised outdoor time — with boundaries.
If Jasper truly craves the outdoors, consider training him to walk on a harness and leash. A short stroll each day—especially in the evening—can fulfill his need to explore and reduce nighttime restlessness. My own cat, Sterling, goes out on a harness every evening before bed. It’s become part of our routine—and it helps him sleep all night.

With consistency, Jasper’s nighttime routine should shift to better match yours. He may always be a little quirky (that’s part of his charm), but these changes will help him feel more fulfilled—and give you back your sleep.