Washington, D.C. - October 30, 2006

Bad to the Bone

2006 Pet Guide

Fido’s always getting into your things. Stealing the pâté off your plate. Dragging embarrassing (and gross) things from the trash. Slobbering on your favorite Lauren Merkin clutch.

Our advice: Refocus his attention (here, Fido, Fido) onto his own new stuff.

Just ’cause he’s in the doghouse doesn’t mean he shouldn’t enjoy it. Georgetown Pet Gallery (3204 O Street NW, 202-333-3174) sells ultraornate (as in, rococo or pagoda) houses.

When there’s no room left on your bed, don’t let sleeping dogs lie; kick him out into his cute custom bed from Jax & Bones.

How to stop the furry little monster from chewing your shoes? Give him his own Furry Little Monsters.

The last time you stayed out too late, you came home to a floor full of feathers and a dog who looked like the cat got his tongue. Next time, hire Puppy Love pet sitters to walk and play with Kujo while you are away. (Psst: They also stay overnight.)

You can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but you can train a puppy yourself with New Puppy! Now What?, a training DVD from local pet guru Victoria Schade.

While you weren’t looking, Pup polished off a dozen cupcakes, the leg of the dining room table, and half a tennis ball. Prepare for this (and worse) by signing up for ASPCA pet health insurance, which covers your  pet — and sends a donation to the charity.

Begging for more? Get yourself to The Washington Humane Society‘s pooch and feline adoption event November 4, noon-3 p.m., at the Georgetown Library (3260 R Street NW, 202-282-0220).

Then call it a dog (cat) day afternoon.