“A cat is a puzzle for which there is no solution.”  –Hazel Nicholson

“Cats are smarter than dogs.  You can’t get eight cats to pull a sled through snow.”          –Jeff Valdez

“I am not a cat man, but a dog man, and all felines can tell this at a glance—a sharp, vindictive glance.”           –James Thurber

“A cat is more intelligent than most people believe, and can be taught any crime.”          –Mark Twain

“Choose a cat if you’d have a puppy; dog if you’d have a dog.  Puppies will **** your **** up for a few months, but cats will **** it up forever.”                    –Unnamed source

“Dogs have owners.  Cats have staff.”           –Unknown source

“There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face.”         –Ben Williams

“I like pigs. Dogs look up to us. Cats look down on us. Pigs treat us as equals.”       –Winston Churchhill

What are your thoughts on cats and dogs? Tell us here or on Facebook.

Think “child-proof”

If a crawling kid could open it or eat it, chances are your pet could, too.  Latches should be difficult to open.  Chemicals should be locked away or on very high shelves.  Knick-knacks should be hidden or impossible to reach.  Electrical wires should be tucked away.  You can even install baby gates at the top of stairs, or anywhere you’d prefer your pet not venture.  I once had a dog that could turn door knobs with his nose, so if you haven’t picked out your new baby at the pound yet, consider opting for the vacant-looking one; he might cause less trouble.

Don’t be a slob

Small items, from board game pieces to shoe laces, are easy to leave lying about and equally easy to send you to the vet.   Keep your toilet lid down and your trash bin behind doors, or at least with a hefty lid.

Pay attention

Far be it from us to make a joke about a baby animal in a dryer, but you get the picture—not knowing where your pet is can lead to disaster.  Being followed around may seem like fun at first, but when you accidentally lock the poor pooch in the basement for hours, you’re just asking for years of pet therapy to overcome the trauma.  Notice your pet’s weaknesses, too—some dogs, for example, treat pillow stuffing like catnip, so there may be some unexpected things you have to hide away.

Know the basics

No chocolate, ever.  No anti-freeze.  Lilies are poison to cats.  Pesticides and other chemicals don’t discriminate between the animals you love and the ones you don’t.  Ask your vet for any crucial information you should know before taking Fido home.

Do you have tips on pet-proofing a new apartment?  Tell us here or on Facebook!

Fennec Foxes

How do you describe an animal as the cutest domesticated thing under the sun, without sounding cliché?  You can’t.  But at least owning a Fennec fox is far from cliché.  These little guys are the smallest of the fox family, and the only ones that can be domesticated.  They are as energetic and attached as dogs, but, frankly, with cooler ears.  It’s also possible to train them to walk on a leash or use a litter box.  If you need a little extra affection in your life, this is the ideal pet.

Sloths

The ultimate choice for someone who wants long-term love, and has a lot of time for supervision.  Sloths live up to thirty-five years old, and what they lack in independence they make up for with adorableness.  Needless to say, they won’t run off and leave you hanging “Missing” posters all over the neighborhood.

Chinchillas

These South American rodents are not truly domesticated; some will bond with their human owners, and some will remain more or less wild.  They need regular exercise and a very specific temperature range, as heat can kill them.  Consider a chinchilla if you like to pet your pet—they are quite clean and incredibly soft.

Skunks

Too stinky?  Think again.  Domesticated skunks have their odor glands removed, for your whiffing pleasure.  They are mild-mannered pets and live much longer in homes than in the wild.  Check your state laws—these guys are only legal in some states.

Hedgehogs

A good choice for someone who wants a quiet and clean pet—not to mention one so appealing it will reduce the strictest of school marms to a cooing puddle of love.  Because hedgehogs are considered an invasive species, they are illegal in some states, so check out the laws where you live.

Before purchasing an unusual pet, do some research to make sure you have the time and amenities that the animal needs (and that your landlord, and even your government, won’t throw a fit).  Occasionally, people will collect pets like pieces of art, a practice that sometimes results in mistreatment of animals.  Keep the number and types of pets you own manageable, and be sure to buy them from breeders with good reputations.

Have an unusual pet? We’d love to hear about it – here or on our Facebook page!

1. Get everything you need set up before you bring home a new cat or kitten.

Cats don’t need a whole lot to be happy, but there are a few essentials that make life with cats much more enjoyable.

• You’ll need to get a litter box, first of all, whether you intend to allow your cat outside or not. The cat will need to stay indoors exclusively for at least a couple of weeks to get accustomed to its new environment. After that, keeping a litter box around, even if your cat goes outside, will ensure there are no accidents in the middle of the night.
• The cat will also need a scratching post or you’re likely to find your furniture turned into one. Cats need to scratch.
• You’ll want to pick up cat food and food and water bowls before you bring your new pet home so that she’ll be able to have a snack right away if she wants one.
• Cats love to chase and hunt. A few small toys will give your cat hours of enjoyment.
• A cat will also need a place to sleep, though she’s likely to make every piece of furniture into one. If you don’t mind, there’s no need to get a separate bed for the cat, but if you want to keep the cat off the bed (and the couch and the office chair and the top shelf of the closet) you can encourage her to sleep in a cat bed.

2. Bring the cat home when it’s quiet.

Cats can be quite skittish. Choose a quiet time to bring your new pet home and start her out in a single room with the door closed. Once she’s used to this room, open the door to let her explore the rest of the apartment but don’t force her out of her comfort zone. Small, solitary animals, cats have evolved to be quite a bit more wary than dogs and they need to be able to have a place to hide if they feel insecure.

3. Let your cat introduce herself to the roommates on her own terms.

Handing a cat or kitten off between roommates may upset the cat. She needs to approach new people on her own terms. You’ll know a cat is ready to be pet or handled by new people when she arches her back as they pet her. Shoving a cat into a stranger’s arms can be a recipe for scratch marks and a friend that doesn’t like your cat.

Have something kitty-related to add? We’d love to hear from you – here or on our Facebook page!

1. Set aside an area exclusively for the new pet.

In an apartment, space can be limited, so you may have to get creative when you’re looking for an isolated area. A bedroom, walk-in closet or even bathroom may have to make due until the two pets become familiar with one another. Remember: this isn’t your new dog or cat’s permanent home, but it is necessary to set this temporary territory aside until the two animals have been introduced. Inside the room, you’ll want to keep all the essentials, including food and water, toys, a bed and a litter box if you have a new cat.

2. Keep the new pet away from the old pet as you bring it home.

If you have a large dog in your apartment that can’t be confined, have a friend take him for a walk when you bring the new pet in. If you have a small dog or cat at home, shut her in a bedroom or bathroom for a moment while you settle the new pet in.

3. Let your new pet out in his or her space.

Close the door to the new pet’s space and allow the pet to explore. Your apartment will be filled with the scent of the old pet, so it may take some time for the new pet to feel comfortable in this space. Don’t rush it. Let the pet build up confidence and security in his own time.

4. Keep them separated.

Keep the two pets separated from one another for at least a week. It’s best if they don’t see each other for this time. This lets your new pet turn his room into his territory and your old pet get used to the idea that the whole house isn’t in his domain anymore.

5. Introduce them by smell.

Give each pet a blanket or toy that the other pet has been using. Let them get to know the smell of each other. This is a critical step for pets that are unsure around other animals.

7. Open the door.

Open the door and allow the pets to explore each other on their own terms. Don’t force pets into the other territory because this can make the transition difficult. It may take a while for them to feel comfortable around each other, but if you take it slow, they have a much better chance at getting along.

8. Shut the door.

End the first introduction after ten minutes or so and close each pet back into their own territories. Don’t wait for things to get bad; end the session while the pets are still on good terms. Gradually, lengthen the amount of time you leave the door open until the pets are totally comfortable around each other.

Have a pet integration story? Want to share your sage advice? We’d love to hear from you – here or on our Facebook page! And as always, please consider adopting a pet from your local ASPCA or Rescue Organization (we got our dog from Copper’s Dream Rescue – check them out if you are in the Bay Area!).

Steps to Prevent Bed Bug Infestations

1.   Beware of used beds and furniture

We’ve all slept on dorm beds, or inherited a couch from a previous tenant—such hand-me-downs are usually harmless.  But, as their name suggests, bed bugs can live in mattresses or other furniture, hopping from one host to the next.  If you choose to go second-hand, make sure you know who owned your furnishings previously, and that they have no history of infestation.  It’s also advisable to immediately wash any clothing you pick up at the local consignment store.

2.  Stay clean

Bed bugs hide in nooks and crannies, but they can be vacuumed up.  Use any paranoia inspired by this blog as an excuse to keep your apartment clean.  If you have cause for concern, check your vacuum bag for bed bugs:  usually red-brown, ¼ inch long, with a flat, oval shape.  Avoid clutter, as bugs love to hide behind stacks of stuff, waiting to strike.

3.  Don’t have infested friends come visit

…at least not before hot showers and clean clothes.  Sounds obvious, but navigating a route between caution and courtesy can be tricky.  If you know your friends have bed bugs, talk to them about what precautions they’re taking to halt the bugs’ spread, and assure them your concern isn’t personal.  While having bed bugs does not necessitate becoming a pariah, some people practice more vigilance than others, and you don’t want to fall victim to a friend’s lax attitude.

4.  Check for bed bugs after returning from vacation

Hotel beds, especially in other countries, sometimes provide the perfect transport from one traveler to another.  Before hitting the sack, check sheets and mattresses for evidence of bed bugs (tiny fecal stains or spots of blood).  Upon returning, examine your clothes and luggage carefully before you fully unpack.

5.  If you’re concerned, throw it in the dryer

Bed bugs are hardy fellows, but they cannot survive temperatures over 120 F.  Most dryers reach that on their “low” setting; the clothes you wore to the open house of that slightly sketchy apartment can be sanitized by 20 minutes in the machine.  Possessions such as computers are trickier, so if you’re worried, look into freezing your gadgets instead.  Vacuuming items like luggage can also reduce risk.

6.  Self-educate

Read up on bed bugs, but be careful of the source; there are plenty of online horror stories, and the best way to stay bug-free is to stay calm and rational!  Also, keep your ears open for bed bugs in the news.  Units Magazine reported in July on proposed legislation that would fund bed bug research, and possibly expedite approval of certain pesticides.  As we learn more about bed bug prevention, rules and recommendations will likely change, so stay up to speed on the best ways to keep yourself safe.

Want to chime in? Have a horror story of your own to share? We’d love to hear about it, here or on our Facebook page!

Rodents

Small, furry and cute, rodents make great pets. They’re playful, intelligent and can often be kept in small cages that fit easily inside an apartment. Mice, hamsters and rats are all popular choices and don’t require much in order to be happy and healthy. They don’t make much noise though they do tend to smell, so it’s important to clean out their cages frequently.

Rabbits

A rabbit is an intelligent animal that can be a good alternative to a cat or dog. Rabbits are social, quiet and affectionate and often play games such as fetch, just as a dog would. Like a cat, a rabbit can be trained to use a litter box, making it possible to keep these animals outside of their cages. The main trouble with rabbits is that they chew everything. Rabbit-proofing the house is critical because rabbits often chew through power cords which can electrocute them.

Birds

Birds are social, intelligent pets that provide a lot of enjoyment for their owners. Many can be taught to speak or do tricks and, with training, birds often become affectionate and attentive pets. The trouble with many types of birds is that they make a lot of noise and require a great deal of space. Some don’t do well if they are left alone all day either, developing nervous habits such as feather plucking. The rewards for bird owners are great, but so are the costs in time and in expensive toys and cages.

Reptiles

Many people are surprised to learn that reptiles do make excellent pets. Though there are many reptiles obtained illegally in the wild, there are also many reptile breeders who provide people with hand raised, healthy and well-adjusted baby reptiles. There are many choices when considering a reptile. Carnivorous reptiles, such as snakes and some species of lizard, will need to be fed whole crickets or mice (though not necessarily live prey) whereas herbivores, such as tortoises and other species of lizards will need lots of fresh vegetables. Reptiles, especially tortoises and lizards can smell bad, so the pet owner will need to make sure to clean out the cage often. Snakes are also great escape artists, so getting a cage with a snake-proof lock is a must.

Amphibians

Frogs, toads and salamanders make great pets for people who want a low maintenance pet that is interesting to look at. These animals do not often enjoy being handled, and can escape and become injured if they are taken out of their cages.

Did we miss your pet? Have experience with any of these? Let us know – here or on our Facebook page!

We got Leroy Brown when he was 7 weeks old!

1. Puppy Space

One of the most important things to do before you bring home a new puppy is to set aside a space that it can be completely enclosed in. Those of us who live in apartments don’t usually have the luxury of a yard to let a puppy run around in and most people don’t have time to pay attention to a rambunctious young dog twenty four hours a day. If you have a spare room you can use as a puppy room, great, but if not, a foldable pen will suffice. Lay heavy-duty plastic down first and then cover it completely with towels or blankets so that the puppy cannot get to the plastic. You’ll need this to protect the carpet or flooring from any puppy accidents. If you have a penned off area such as this, you will be able to leave the puppy unsupervised from time to time. Pro-tip: a baby gate can often be re-purposed into a puppy gate!

Puppies (and owners) also really benefit from crate training. A crate (or kennel, as some folks call it) can fit right into the puppy’s ‘area’ and will act as a safe place for the puppy to rest. Particularly if you have active kids around, sometimes puppies might need to go somewhere warm, enclosed and safe to rest and chill out. Plus, if they are getting too geared up and crazy, this is a good spot to put them to cool them down! Crate training is also extremely useful for house training your pup, as dogs tend not to…eliminate…in areas where they sleep.

2. Puppy Proof

Just like you need to baby proof before you bring a small human into your apartment, you’ll also need to puppy proof to protect your puppy from the many things that can hurt him (and to protect your things from the puppy!). Cables should be covered by plastic runners so the puppy doesn’t chew them and anything on a low shelf or floor that the puppy could damage should be moved out of reach. Gating off certain areas of the house, such as a computer room, is a good idea because it may be impractical to keep the electronics and the puppy safe from one another.

3. Be Prepared

The best thing to do to get yourself ready for your new puppy is to purchase everything you need before you bring the puppy home. You’ll want food and water bowls, puppy food, a few toys, including one that puppy can chew (and chew and chew and chew), a leash and collar, a bed, and a crate. You’ll also want puppy pads (or massive amounts of newspaper) to soak up accidents whether or not you’re planning on paper training. Books on puppy care and training are also a great idea and will give you plenty of specifics on what to do when you first bring the puppy home. Your public library should have tons of them!

4. Get Outside

One of the ways raising a puppy in an apartment is different than raising one in a house is that you probably won’t have a yard for the puppy to play in. You’ll want to get the puppy used to a regular walk schedule, which, for a very young dog, will need to be more frequent than the twice-daily walk many adult dogs require. Getting your puppy used to a regular walk schedule will help immensely with house training. You’ll also want to make sure your puppy has enough ways to release his boundless energy or your apartment may suffer the consequences! Some breeds, like border collies, need a lot more exercise than more mellow breeds, but all puppies need lots of time to run around, chase bugs and balls and play outdoors. You’ll want to set some time aside every day to play with your puppy. Getting him nice and tired before bed might also help you sleep better.

Thanks to Leroy Brown for guest starring in this post! We’d LOVE to see your puppy pics – or answer dog raising questions here or on our Facebook page!

Final note: Consider adopting your new best friend from a shelter or rescue organization. PetFinder.com is a great place to start – as is your local SPCA or animal shelter. We got Leroy from Copper’s Dream Rescue – check them out if you are local to the Bay Area!

1. Male or Female Roommate who doesn’t Eat Cooked Food

“You’re going to have to eat your food raw,” one particularly bossy ad read, “Because there are three other people in the house. Better yet. Keep your food out of the house.” Reading this ad made me wonder if the roomies weren’t actually looking for an outdoor dog rather than another human being who would be splitting the rent and utilities equally while taking their meal of uncooked food outside. Eating isn’t a privilege; it’s something we all do. Even your future roommate.

2. Perpetually Single Female

“Seeking another single female to rent the other room in my house. In my experience, relationships cause too much drama, so you can’t have one for the duration of the lease. No exceptions. No overnight guests.” Most singles don’t assume that they’re going to spend the rest of their lives alone, but this woman who wants you to rent out her spare room won’t have it any other way. While it isn’t unreasonable to request the overnight guests be kept to a minimum or that a new roomie come as a single unit and not a matched pair, demanding they forego the search for love for a yearlong lease is beyond bossy. People have a right to search for love, whether or not they occupy a bedroom in your house.

3. Must have Dog

There are lots of places for rent that don’t allow pets. Far fewer require them, but there are some people out there, looking for roommates on craigslist that are not only okay with the addition of an extra pet, they require it. “We are two twenty somethings who each have a dog of our own. We’d really like another dog, so you should already have one of your own.” They could just adopt another dog, it would seem, if that’s what they were really after.

4. Free Rent in Exchange…

There are many services a person can offer in exchange for reduced rent: gardening, repairs, care of animals, cooking or clean. But being a single female? I’m going to have to say that this request, which was promptly flagged for removal has crossed the line of legality. “Free room and board for a single woman to share a master bedroom,” the ad offered. While the advertiser never explicitly asked for anything in return, we can put 2 and 2 together.

5. Must Bend to my Will

“You’re going to need to do everything I tell you. I’ll tell you how to cook your meat and which spices you can use. I’ll tell you when you’ll watch TV. I’ll dictate your bedtime and check to be sure you’ve brushed your teeth twice a day. But hey, I’ve lowered the rent so that all this won’t matter.” Last time I checked, we were all creatures with quirky behaviors and strong wills. Making unreasonable demands on a roommate and not allowing them to have any issues of their own shows not only a lack of insight into how relationships work, but a lack of respect for your future roommate.

Craigslist is a great way to find other people in your area who are looking for roommates – and also a great preliminary way to weed out the crazies. There is a section on craigslist devoted to roommate searches and posting is free. Once you’ve located a few possibilities, using other social media tools can help you select which roommate you’d like to live with.

Facebook can be used to search for new roommates and also to learn more about people. Posting an update that lets your current friends know you’re looking for a new place can help them connect you with others who may also be looking for a new apartment. Friending a potential roommate and checking out his or her page can give you information about your new roommate’s friends, interests and favorite pastimes. This social media site is a good way to quickly determine whether you have enough in common with a potential roommate to get to know them better and rent a place together.

Twitter can be used to find a new roommate in a couple of ways as well. As with Facebook, Twitter can be used to post a roommate wanted ad that can be reposted by your followers so that it makes its way out of your social circle. You can also use hash tags such as #roommate #rental and #thenameofyourcity to join a roommate finding conversation in your area. Following potential roommates can also help you learn a little more about them.

YouTube and Flickr may not be particularly useful for locating for new roommates but they can be used to learn more about a potential new roommate. Watching videos and viewing photos posted by roommates you are considering can give you some information about their interests. Finding someone with compatible interests can go a long way towards creating a harmonious atmosphere in the house.

LinkedIn is a social site that helps people connect professionally. Learning about a prospective roommate’s professional life can give you an idea about his or her financially stability. A roommate who can’t pay bills on time can cause you a lot of stress and knowing about a roommate’s job security and professionalism can give you a good idea of how the financial aspects of living with him or her will go.

Blogs and websites can also let you know what kind of person you might be soon living with. If your new roommate has a blog or a website, it’s a good idea to check this out. Websites can reveal both personal and professional information about a new roommate, while blogs can give you some insight in a roommate’s emotional, social or personal life. Long story short: anybody running a blog detailing their project to create ‘the world’s filthiest apartment’ probably isn’t a good match unless you are also content to live in filth!

Want to see which kind of roommate YOU are? Take the MyNewPlace Roommate Quiz!