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Smokey the Sheriff
From Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Very Good, Very Bad Cat
By Kitty Chappell Fun fact: Cats do respond to training! In fact one of the first scientific studies highlighting the importance of reinforcement in animal behavior was done with cats. "Smokey, whatever it is you want will have to wait — I've got to put these groceries away before the ice cream melts!" But Smokey continued yowling. Knowing I'd have no peace until I investigated his concerns, I quickly stashed the last of the frozen foods into the freezer, pushed the other groceries to the side on the counter, and rushed toward the front entryway where Smokey stood at attention at the foot of the stairs. Viewing the chaotic scene, I laughed and said, "This is your emergency? Don't you think I would have discovered this when I walked upstairs?" Before returning to the kitchen I added, "And, don't be such a tattle-tale!" (Keep reading) | 