| Pets Quick-Tip: Off-Limits Furniture |
From "Ask DIY"
episode ADI-710 |
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One of the keys to keeping pet-hair off your furniture is keeping the pets off your furniture. Most cats and dogs enjoy an elevated resting place. If they're not discouraged from seeking out these locations, they'll become accustomed to your favorite chair or sofa as their "bed." That's a problem for pet owners who dislike the hair, dirt or odor that pets can leave behind. Here are some suggestions for gently discouraging pets from seeking out your furniture as their own.
- When you're not using your chair or sofa, place the cushions at odd angles to make it difficult for your pet to lie down there (figure A).
- You can also purchase plastic runners (like those used to keep dirt off carpets) and place them on your cushions with the spike-side up (figure B). Cats, in particular, don't like walking on surfaces that are foreign to them, and certainly won't enjoy walking on plastic spikes.
- Odiferous spray-repellents -- like lemon scent and bitter-apple -- are good deterrents on furniture (figure C). Make sure the sprays are fabric-safe before using them.
- There are even shock pads available that emit a mild, battery-powered shock when your pet steps on it. Your pet will quickly learn to associate the pad with an unpleasant experience, and will stay away from it.
The key for success lies in the consistency of the training method. Keep in mind that positive reinforcement often works more effectively than a negative response for misbehavior.
RESOURCES :
Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats
Model: 0875962432
Author: Richard H. Pitcairn
(1995)
To order this title from Amazon.com, click here.
Rodale Press
Red Oak, IA 51591
Phone: 515-242-0282
The Complete Dog Book
Model: 087605047X
Author: American Kennel Club Staff
Hungry Minds, Inc.
December 1997
How to Talk to Your Dog (Talk to Your Pets)
Model: 0060270926
Author: Jean-Craighead George
(March, 200)
To order this title from Amazon.com, click here.
HarperCollins
New York, NY 10022
Phone: 212-207-7000
Fax: 212-207-7145
Comprehensive Health Care for Dogs
Model: 1559717831
Author: James E. McKay
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