I'm never really MAD (like this mad) at Duncan. I get upset with him sometimes but he doesn't make me angry. I try to remember that he doesn't do these things intentionally to make me mad. He does them because it's his instinct or he is bored and looking for something to do or a million other reasons. But, one thing I remind mself all the time is that, although we attach reasons and excuses to their behavior, they themselves do not have that ability and are not doing it for that reason. Do you know what I mean? For example, I'm working right now on tryng to break Duncan of destroying the house if I leave him out of his crate while I am at work. He runs around and rips things up for the first 15 minutes after I leave. Now, it would seem like he does this because he's angry that I left him but really he is stressed out and that's how he is venting. I'm upset that my house is destroyed, along with some of my belongings but not angry at Duncan. (My roommate on the other hand, is ANGRY !!! ) I get upset when he leaps on the front door and barks at the neighbor, I get upset when he tries to escape out the front door, I get upset when he gets out and runs in the road, I get upset when he tries to climb in the front seat of my little Honda while I'm driving...(Actually, that is sometimes funny!! If there are no other cars around... ) Anyway, I can't imagine getting mad at him, like really mad! Collins' roommate, that Duncan has bitten a few times, said that he was mad at Duncan and I just don't get it!! Why waste your energy being angry at a dog who doesn't know why you're angry and could care less that you're flashing them dirty looks! That's the difference between people and animals: people can reason and hold grudges and animals don't. Half of the abuse in this world could probably be avoided if people realized that the world does not revolve around the human species!!!!!!! Purrley, I am not all all saying or trying to imply that you abuse Tess in any way shape or form!!!! I know you love Tess and are very good with her while you're learning how to be a great dog mom!! Angry isn't really what you were, you were upset and frustrated, that's all. That happens to every single pet owner in the entire universe!! Just try to laugh a little at the situation!! Tess is a little girl right? Then imagine her with trying to get all "prettied up" with her stinky breath!!!??? Then you'll laugh at her!! And then try to train them not to do what it is they are doing... OR avoid the situation by moving the litter box. Duncan ate my very expensive favortie pair of shoes last night. But it was my fault since I fell asleep at 7:30 w/o taking him for his evening run. He was in the house all day, bored and then I come home and went to sleep?!? He HAD to find something to do!! Anyway, you're doing fine! Hang in there!
I wish I had an answer to the litter box problem for you but I don't have any cats! My advice would be to yell NO at her when she goes near it. Or move it!!