I am thinking about purchasing a puppy, and have been doing a great deal of research before bringing a puppy into our home. I live with another woman in her large home, and she has had a cat that is about 10 years old. She rules the roost so to speak. She goes outside during the day, and who knows what she does, but she has very sharp claws. Would bringing a puppy into our home be an insurmountable problem? My friend and I are willing to work hard to make this endeavor work, because I am really a dog lover, but we don't want to have a situation which is not tolerable. Any advice? Thanks. Joyce B

I'm very happy to hear that you are thoroughly researching your new puppy. Sadly, and all too often, puppies are bought on impulse and wind up discarded for simply acting like the pups they are. An informed owner is a powerful owner. You should be concerned about bringing a pup into a home where a 10 year old cat "rules the roost". I said concerned - not frantic. It's been my experience that it is best to allow dogs and cats to figure it all out for themselves. For the first several days, keep a leash on the pup anytime it and the cat might meet. Allow the pup to drag the leash around. Quietly watch as the two pets discover and explore each other. Keep your input to a minimum. One of several things might happen: The cat and pup like each other (OK); both pets are indifferent to each other (OK); the cat may take a swing at the pup and teach it to avoid it (still OK); or the pup may prove to be too energetic for the cat and teach it to avoid the pup ( still OK). If things get out of hand or dangerous, use the leash to control the pup or get it back to you safely. Wait a week or so and try it again. Relax, it just may be easier than you imagine.

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