Question - I’ve really tried to help keep Max’s teeth clean, but every time I attempt to brush them, my normally sweet dog snaps at me! What to do? – Puzzled in Prineville

Ben -Look, even the most laid-back dogs are going to have their limits. Know what I mean? And, if I’ve got an owie in there, I REALLY don’t want anyone messing with it. Bottom line – give me the happy juice. I’m serious. Get the teeth all up to par at the vet and then seek out a trainer who can help translate for you. Max can get over this, but might be hurting a bunch just now.

Abby - This is not a big problem. If Max was a cat, you could try this: situate him in a warm, sunny spot on the carpet, tell him wonderful things about himself, rub his belly and use a bit of catnip on the toothbrush. Should be a snap (no pun intended)!

Question - The whole ‘rotation diet’ thing. Is it really necessary? – Ron McD, Bend

Abby - Absolutely! Truthfully, in the wild, cats don’t go back to the same exact food source each time. And, there are health benefits, too. If you treat us to a variety of raw, dry and canned you can help avoid allergies and improve our hydration levels. Better hydration, fewer urinary tract and kidney disease issues.

Ben -Necessary? No. A good thing to do? Yes. Some variety really helps me to feel more excited about mealtime. If I eat right away, the food is fresher and tastes better. And all that stuff Abby said is true for dogs, too.