HOWL with Amy

Dear Amy,

I have always wanted to create a beautiful garden for myself and finally hired and paid (ouch) for my oasis. Around the same time I began planning this garden, I also added a new puppy, Barney, to our family. Fast forward, Barney is now one year old and digging up my beautiful garden, one hole at a time. 

Please help me, I am in the weeds!

Dear in the Weeds,

Congratulations on the beautiful garden and the new family addition, Barney! Here is the good news… this is not a difficult fix. In preparation, begin collecting Barney’s stool from the yard and purchase at least two large containers of Cayenne Pepper.

Every time Barney digs a hole, place a layer of his stool at the bottom, cover it with dirt and then douse the dirt with the Cayenne Pepper. Dogs sniff before digging. Reapply pepper for a few weeks after watering plants. It will take a couple of weeks to stop the digging, filling four to six holes. The bonus, poop will fertilize your garden!

Hi Amy,

What are some options for dog owners whose dogs are nonstop barkers? Dogs don’t realize that they’re violating a basic rule of society – the peaceful enjoyment of one’s dwelling space. However, their owners should realize this… right? Alas, noise from a neighbor’s chronically barking dog does travel quite far; especially when, on nice days, windows are opened to enjoy the fresh air. So, yikes.

I do like dogs, but… your expert thoughts on remedies to this social conundrum would be truly valuable.

Sincerely, L.A. Morgan

Dear L.A.,

Though this is a little tricky, I completely feel your pain. I suggest starting with an act of kindness (more bees with honey) and visit a nearby pet store and purchase a nice bag of high-level dog treats.

When the neighbor is home, bring the treats over and ask if he has a minute to chat. Explain the situation with kindness and ask if the two of you can devise a plan of how best to solve the problem. Options could include agreed upon times when dogs are kept indoors; and/or the use of bark collars designed to self-correct the barking. 

Best of luck.
Amy Peer