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The Intriguing Differences Between Dogs and Cats Have you ever thought about the differences between dogs and cats? Cat people might be different from dog people, as far as humans go. However, most of us would be surprised at just how different dogs and cats actually are. Their training for example, all a cat needs, in order to go to the bathroom, is a litter box. Instinct takes over and that's that. A dog, on the other hand, needs a great deal of training in order to make sure they do their business outside. You probably praise your pets on a regular basis. More than likely, the cat couldn't care less. The dog, on the other hand, will eat it up. While it's possible to train a cat, you'll be more successful using treats instead of praise. One possible reason is dogs and humans have worked together since dogs first evolved from wolves. Dogs are simply more used to responding to humans, as a result. There are some distinct physical differences between cats and dogs as well. This not only involves the way they are built, but much more. Long before they became domesticated, wild cats and the ancestor of dogs, the wolf, were carnivores. Therefore, cat breeds are built to stalk and pounce; they're built more for agility. Most dog breeds are built for endurance over stealth. Dogs and cats have different medical issues. For instance, dogs are at a higher risk of having to live with skin problems and are more prone to being affected by fleas and ticks. Cats tend to suffer more bowel problems than dogs. Cats are also more prone to food allergies. If a cat doesn't eat regularly, that can result in problems. Cats can easily develop a problem known as Hepatic Lipidosis. This is a liver problem that occurs when a cat takes in too few calories. Not so with dogs. They can go without food and not be seriously affected. Cats are more self- sufficient than dogs. They are natural, solitary hunters. They don't have to function in a pack like dogs do. Cats often seem more standoffish than dogs. Dogs are much more social. They can't get enough of pats on the head or belly rubs. Cats have sharp, retractable claws that are used for defense and capturing prey. Dog's claws don't retract. Dogs can't jump as well as cats. A cat has to be agile when stalking its prey. Dogs need more endurance and hunt by outlasting prey. Dogs have 42 teeth, while cats have only 30. Pet owners know that, no matter what breed or species, whether you get them from a shelter or a reputable breeder, your dog or cat is a companion to be celebrated. ~ Vivian Walker, vivr@sbcglobal.net 34 FOUR SEASONS BREEZE | SEPTEMBER 2020 Tails & Trails - All Pets Dogs On Private Property It has come to our attention that there have been a number of complaints recently about dogs on an owner's private property being off-leash. This has been addressed in the Community Guidelines under Pets: Animals belonging to residents, tenants or invitees within the Property must be either kept within an enclosure, an enclosed yard or on a leash being held by an individual capable of controlling the animal. What this means is that a dog in an owner's fully enclosed private backyard does not need to be on a leash. Dogs in front yards or in a garage with the garage door open need to be on a leash being held by an individual capable of controlling the animal. Incidents have been reported of residents and resident dogs being attacked by unleashed dogs in front yards or running out of open garages causing trauma and in some cases injury. We ask that all dog owners keep their dog under control on a leash when not in an enclosure (that means completely closed garage) or enclosed yard. Thank you for your cooperation. PACK WALKS – all pack walks have been canceled until further notice as a result of guidelines imposed by Riverside County due to COVID-19. ~ Patrick and his dog, Ricky Ricardo: dog_owners@ yahoo.com Dog Owners Group Check with your club contact to confirm meeting place, date, and time.

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