Holiday nightmare
Dear Patches,
What’s more interesting than finding travel bags on the bed? Getting inside and scrambling, kneading and unpacking the neatly folded clothing inside. I make sure that the softer fabrics are in one corner, knead the T-shirts into one heap and create a soft pillow for my kitty head. When Mom comes in, she clearly likes my rearrangement, as she usually giggles, takes me out and gives me a hug. I know that our usual pet sitter will ensure that I’m comfortable, and she even spends time with me on the couch, feeding me my favourite treats, but that doesn’t make up for my human family who will probably be away forever. Why do people have to go on holiday?
Stay-at-home Stacy
Patches: People work very hard and they need a break from everyday life. As much as they love you, they need to relax a little so that they can come back refreshed. It’s clear that your mom loves you and finds it funny when you’re hiding in the travel bags – that’s why she gives you a hug. But travelling with cats can be very challenging, and that’s why you have a pet sitter who comes to take care of you. You’ll see, when they get back, you will be spoilt again.
Muddy games
Dear Patches,
I don’t get it! My brother, Flash, a Jack Russell Terrier, doesn’t think twice about running through muddy water, swimming in cold water, crawling through tunnels or going down a slippery slide. He’s wet, then he is covered in mud with only his eyes sticking out, and then he is clean and very wet. I don’t want my coat to get wet and muddy. I hate cold water. Just the thought of playing in mud makes me shiver. I would much rather save my Pekingese coat for a photoshoot. Is he crazy, or what?
Picky Pearly
Patches: The answer might be that you are different breeds with different coats. Jack Russell Terriers have shorter coats that are easier to groom and maintain. Jack Russells are also extremely active dogs who love all the adventure an obstacle course has to offer. For them, it’s like getting a huge treat. Pekingese, on the other hand, enjoy less action and more ‘stardom’. Let Flash enjoy the action while you cheer him on from the side.
