Guest Post by Ron Wolff

Cats and dogs may seem like natural enemies, but it doesn’t have to be that way. A lot of times, you can have both pets living together in the same house and have almost no problems. If you are apprehensive that adding a new pet to your family might cause trouble, then here are some reasons to lay your fears to rest.

1. They Can Be Best Friends

Cats and dogs really can get along and look out for each other and even be buddy-buddy. They don’t even have to grow up together. Just living in the same house and having similar temperaments can make them best buddies. Many times, you won’t even have to work at making them like each other. They will just naturally gravitate toward the companionship the other offers, and you will find yourself with two very close pets who hardly ever fight.

2. They Can Sleep Together

There are few things more adorable than a dog and a cat cuddling up together on the floor. They may cuddle in the dog’s sleeping area or the cat’s, but two pets that are friendly with one another will often lie right next to each other for warmth and comfort. They find the company of one another soothing, so don’t be surprised to see them in bed with each other.

3. They Share the Same Food

Many times, dogs and cats will eat some of the same food. Now, we know that some animals can be very selfish when it comes to mealtime, but others will actually share what they have. You might see your dog waiting patiently for the cat to finish its food before the dog jumps in and eats the leftovers. This kind of behavior is wonderful to see and not as rare as you might think.

4. They Watch Out for One Another

Dogs and cats can both be protective of each other. If you have a young dog and an older cat, the older cat may be protective of the dog and make sure it doesn’t get into trouble. Large dogs can protect smaller cats as well, chasing away strange cats or dogs to protect their friend.

5. They Can Go to the Vet Together

A trip to the vet can be quite scary for your pet. However, if they have their friend along, it won’t be quite so traumatic. They can provide comfort and friendship for one another to make the visit more pleasant.

6. They Can Get into Trouble Together

Dogs and cats that get along will do all sorts of things together. They may even make a mess of your home together! They can dig in the flower garden, knock over the trash can and get into other mischief as partners in crime. You may not like the mess they made, but you will love that they are teaming up as pals and getting along with each other.

7. They Can Both Look to You for Attention

As their owner, you hold a special place in the hearts of your pets. Because both your cat and dog will adore you, they will often get along for your sake, putting aside petty bickering to show you affection, come when you call and play with you together.

8. They Can Chase Animals Together

As your pets pal around together, they will get involved in some of the same activities. If a bird, squirrel or other small animal gets into the yard, your dog and cat may both go chasing after it. This is true whether your dog and cat are roughly the same size or the dog is far bigger than the cat. It’s hilarious to see them both go bounding after their prey and then watch them both look sad when it gets away.

9. They Provide Warmth for Each Other

If the weather gets cold, cats and dogs may snuggle against one another for warmth. The dog may not get much warmth from the cat, but it’s enough to make a difference, and the dog may not mind providing a shield against the cold for its feline friend.

10. They Can Love You Together

Cats and dogs may actually compete for your affection and work together to show you how much they love you. If your cat sees the dog getting attention from you, it may join in and purr as it rubs up against your leg. The dog may feel left out when you are holding the cat and want some of that loving as well.

These are just a few of the many reasons why cats and dogs do not have to be enemies. Your dog and cat can get along just like this and in so many other wonderful ways.

Ron Wolff is the content editor at pupjunkies.com – a site for happy, healthy, and adventurous dogs who are fueled by nature.

On Saturday, January 26 from 6 to 10 PM, Sarge's Karaoke Night will be held at The Gem Bar, downstairs at Boojum Brewing Tap Room located at 50 N. Main Street in Waynesville, NC. Funds raised will go to Sarge’s “WuzBug Fund for Special Needs," which allows Sarge’s Animal Rescue to help animals with injuries, disorders, and diseases who require medical treatment outside of the routine.

Enjoy food, karaoke, and fun at this amazing local brewery!

Sorry but no dogs or children will be able to attend this event.

Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Tickets can also be ordered by phone at 828-246-9050 or purchased in person at the Adoption Center, 256 Industrial Park Drive in Waynesville, during regular office hours, 12 Noon to 5 PM, Tuesday-Friday, 10 AM to 3 PM on Saturday.

On Saturday, February 2, Cisco Pilates will hold a "Pilates with Puppies" class from 4 to 5 PM at the Asheville Humane Society Adoption & Education Center, 14 Forever Friend Lane, Asheville (off Brevard and Pond Roads near the WNC Farmers Market).

Pilates with Puppies will be a basic Pilates class, with puppies provided by Asheville Humane Society. Please bring your own yoga or Pilates mat and a small towel. Please do not bring your own puppy! The cost is $15, which is a donation to Asheville Humane Society on behalf of Buncombe County animals.

Pre-registration is required and these classes are very popular. Early registration is suggested as space is limited and this event is expected to sell out! Visit https://www.ciscopilates.com/pricing/ to sign up. Questions? Email alexis@ciscopilates.com

Image: Cisco Pilates

Hiking Hounds is one of the most popular Asheville Humane Society volunteer activities. Each month, volunteers take shelter dogs on hikes as part of the enrichment programming. You'll spend a few hours in Bent Creek hiking the trails with dogs who will love you for it.

The next hike with the Hiking Hounds group is Sunday, January 20. Start time is 10 AM for repeat hikers and 9:30 AM for new hikers. Hikers generally return to the shelter at 16 Forever Friend Lane, Asheville around 11:30 AM to 12 PM. Note: New and repeat hikers alike are required to sign up in advance. If you'd like to sign up for this hike, email ahshikinghounds@outlook.com.

Hikers are signed up on a "first come-first served basis" and you must have a confirmed reservation to attend a hike. And please make sure you can actually make the hike; if we have late cancellations, a dog gets left behind without a hike.

For more information visit the Hiking Hounds Facebook page.

Guest Post by Jennifer Scott

Winter is a magical time, but it can produce quite a few potential dangers for our dogs. From exposure to the cold to toxic chocolate treats, there is much to be vigilant against. Here are five tips to keep your pooch safe during the winter months.

1. Warning Signs

 Even in winter, your dog needs to be taken outside. One way to protect them is by being attentive to any physical and behavioral warning signs. Are they shivering or showing that they’re upset by barking or whimpering? Behaviors like these could be interpreted differently during the warmer months, but they can be indicators of distress in winter. Check their ears to see if they are cold, and watch out for lethargy. Your dog may just be discouraged by the cold, but reduced energy could suggest more serious issues. This is a time to be observant, as your dog will let you know if they are in trouble.

2. Paws

The cold takes a toll on our dog's paws. There are hazards concealed by snow, and ice can form between their toes, especially when nails are long. While you could avoid snowy areas, even sidewalks and roads have their own dangers due to increased chemical use. Salt and other deicers are toxic to dogs, and your neighbors may be unaware of that. Take precautions after each outing by wiping your pup's paws with warm water to remove salt and ice buildup. Your best option may be to buy booties, as they are comfortable and can keep them safe from harm and dry skin. This alone can keep their winter fun and free of ill-health.

3. Accessories

Even when they grow a heavier coat for winter, dogs can still feel the cold. This can make heading out onerous for them, yet they need to remain active for their own well-being. You can help keep your canines stay warm in dropping temperatures by adding a sweater to their natural buffer. What materials you choose will depend on the size of your pet and the thickness of their fur. Dog clothing can also be modified to deal with darker days. Your walks may happen in poor visibility, so consider attachable safety lights and high-visibility gear to give you peace of mind.

4. Hazards

Winter is a festive time, but cold weather foods can be harmful to dogs. Many wintery foods contain chocolate, but these treats can cause severe toxic reactions when ingested by our canines. Rich “people foods” can also cause problems, so avoid indulging your furry friends, as their health is more important than allowing occasional tableside begging. Especially dangerous in the garage is antifreeze which can poison pooches. Dogs are curious, but it's essential that you stop them from investigating anything that could be dangerous.

5. Keep Dogs Indoors

Bring your pooch inside during cold weather. Outdoor kennels are not safe places in winter, so don't rely on them. Your pooch may already have a special place to sleep when indoors. If not, choose an area for their bed away from cold flooring, like hardwood or tile, or anywhere that is drafty. Ideally, it should be well-heated, but you can supplement this with a hot water bottle or electric bed. However, take care that they do not become overheated, as this could cause restlessness. Aside from walks, keep your dog's outings to a minimum. That includes washing them indoors. It may sound messy, but a wet coat can be a recipe for hypothermia.

Our dogs deserve nothing but safety. Plan out how you can protect your canine from outdoor hazards and cooler temperatures, and be aware of physical warning signs. Winter should be a time to frolic, so make this season a happy one for your pooch.

Jennifer Scott has experienced anxiety and depression since she was a teenager. She shares stories about the ups and downs of her anxiety and depression at http://spiritfinder.org/

Image courtesy of Pexels