Dog demands total attention

Dear Annie: My husband and I have had a cat for two years, and it is amazing how close we are to that little furry animal. He is a Persian longhair and full of love. He purrs whenever he is held or sits in your lap. Also, we just adopted a Great Pyrenees dog.

We did not know much about this breed but are pleasantly surprised at how gentle she is. She ignores the cat and is wonderful with children. Yet she is a fantastic protection dog. I read that Great Pyrenees protect sheep and other livestock and chase away wolves and cheetahs, so you can imagine how powerful they are. We got her because there have been a series of break-ins in our neighborhood and we were advised that a big dog can be great protection against burglars.

The problem is that our dog, sweet as she is, demands total attention. When either of us holds the cat, she comes over and says, through her body language, “Hold me instead.” We’re not sure how to handle this so both animals feel loved and appreciated.

Cats and Dogs

Dear Cats and Dogs: You are blessed to have such loving animals and smart to take their feelings seriously.

In a 2014 study, researchers at the University of California, San Diego found evidence that dogs do in fact experience jealousy. So for the cat’s sake, as well as the dog’s, it is important to reassure your dog by petting her at the same time.

Either you or your husband can hold the cat while the other pets the dog.

If you are alone, then pet both animals at the same time. As long as you pet them both, your household will literally be in good hands.

Dear Annie: It was very heartening to read that you strongly recommend business cards and thank-you notes. I have found that the younger generation of businesspeople are not very businesslike.

The most exasperating lazy habit is that so many don’t even sign their email.

They expect you to extract their name from their email address. Signature blocks make a business card valuable, and these cards eliminate the need to Google for contact information. Dial Generation Nanny

Dear Nanny: You are not alone.