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Pssst... We've Got a Few Tricks!
Read on for easy solutions to common problems
 Who says tricks are for kids? Our four-legged friends have plenty of 'em, from chasing their tales to cornering lizards to melting our hearts on-the-spot.
Turns out we humans have just as many tricks for keeping our pets happy, healthy and out of trouble (and the neighbor's garbage). For the Winter/Spring 2012 issue of Petsguide, now on the streets, we tracked down the very best tricks from local cat and dog experts, who gave us a long list of quick-and-easy solutions for common pet problems. Check out these samples below, and then read all of our tricks of the trade.
Quiet, Please!
Turns out your barking dog isn't just trying to annoy you (and everyone else on the block), he's yapping for a reason. If you can figure out his motivation, says trainers Theresa Botello and Dan Atkinson, you can pinpoint a solution - and it may be easier than you think. Read on to crack your dog's code, and then enjoy some peace and quiet.
Glamour Shots
You'd love to capture a great shot of your pet for posterity, but your photo sessions always devolve into a fit of whining and panting - and that's just you! Pet photographer Robert Semrow (thepawtographer.com) gave us some sneaky tips for getting your pet to sit still, with a model-perfect pose.
Lovely Lawns
Little did we know there's a secret ingredient in dog urine that's responsible for those yellow spots on your lawn. But by tweaking your dog's diet a bit, and using a couple of easy strategies, you can green up your grass in no time. Start your makeover with these tips.
Down, Boy!
You love smooches from your pooch, but Aunt Edna (or the UPS man) might not. In a few easy steps, you can train your ever-friendly dog to stay calm and keep all four paws on the floor - instead of on your guests. Yelling doesn't work, but these tricks will.
And don't miss the trick for keeping your cat from scratching your sofa to shreds. (Foiled again!)
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