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Author: Melissa Smith

Melissa Smith, discussions manager for Petful, has been researching and writing about pet behaviors for several years. Her work has been recognized with Certificates of Excellence from both the Dog Writers Association of America and the Cat Writers’ Association. A longtime animal lover, Melissa is a professional pet sitter on Cape Cod through her company, Fresh Start Services.
  • Behaviors and Training
Open post

4 Weird Things Your Dog Is Licking — And Why

By Melissa SmithJul 7, 2016July 6, 2016

Got freshly painted walls? Better keep your pup away from them.

  • Cat Breeds
Open post

5 Things to Know About American Shorthair Cats

By Melissa SmithJun 25, 2016October 19, 2018

The American Shorthair is a versatile, easygoing cat who gets along well with children.

  • Dog Breeds
Open post Belgian Tervuren breed profile

5 Things to Know About Belgian Tervurens

By Melissa SmithJun 11, 2016October 17, 2018

These active dogs are perfect for people who enjoy jogging.

  • Dog Breeds
Open post Thai Ridgeback breed profile

5 Things to Know About Thai Ridgebacks

By Melissa SmithJun 4, 2016February 4, 2020

The Thai Ridgeback is a strong, protective dog who attacks cobras — yes, cobras! — and loves warm climates.

  • Dog Breeds
Open post Lhasa Apso breed profile

5 Things to Know About Lhasa Apsos

By Melissa SmithMay 28, 2016May 26, 2020

Get to know the Lhasa Apso — a friendly, intelligent, confident and comical dog breed.

  • Dog Breeds
Open post Belgian Malinois breed profile

5 Things to Know About Belgian Malinois

By Melissa SmithMay 21, 2016May 27, 2020

This is a strong, courageous and hardworking breed.

  • Dog Breeds
Open post Groenendael breed profile

5 Things to Know About Groenendaels

By Melissa SmithMay 14, 2016May 27, 2020

This intelligent breed is often used in law enforcement and on search-and-rescue teams.

  • Behaviors and Training
Open post

6 Things Your Cat Should Never Treat as a Toy

By Melissa SmithMay 12, 2016May 19, 2020

Is your cat playing with these common household items? If so, you might want to rethink playtime.

  • Behaviors and Training
Open post

The Right Way to Introduce Yourself to a New Dog

By Melissa SmithMay 10, 2016August 5, 2019

It’s hard to resist bombarding a dog with kisses and pets when you first meet him, but our canine friends often need time to warm up to new people.

  • Dog Breeds
Open post Norwegian lundehund breed profile

5 Things to Know About Norwegian Lundehunds

By Melissa SmithMay 7, 2016May 26, 2020

These dogs have 6 toes on each paw, as well as incredibly flexible spines and energetic personalities.

  • Dog Breeds
Open post Norwich Terrier breed profile

5 Things to Know About Norwich Terriers

By Melissa SmithApr 30, 2016October 17, 2018

Norwich Terriers are great family pets, but keep them away from smaller animals — these dogs have high prey drives.

  • Dog Breeds
Open post Portuguese Water Dog breed profile

5 Things to Know About Portuguese Water Dogs

By Melissa SmithApr 23, 2016May 30, 2020

These dogs are smart and energetic — just make sure you have the time to exercise them properly so they don’t become destructive.

  • Dog Breeds
Open post Chesapeake Bay Retriever breed profile

5 Things to Know About Chesapeake Bay Retrievers

By Melissa SmithApr 16, 2016October 17, 2018

A loving breed, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever has slightly webbed toes and a gentle jaw to help retrieve ducks from icy waters.

  • Behaviors and Training
Open post

Why Is My Cat Sleeping in the Litter Box?

By Melissa SmithMar 8, 2016March 7, 2016

The litter box may be a breeding ground for disease, so here are some savvy tips to help you stop this behavior.

  • Other Pets
Open post

Why Is My Hamster So Scared of Me?

By Melissa SmithMar 1, 2016May 10, 2016

It’s not just you — hamsters have a lot to deal with in their transition to a new home. Give them some time, and they’ll grow to love you.

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