Dear Miss Fifi:

M dog will not eat for up to three days when she is with a babysitter; however, she will eat at home when I am out for a few hours. What can I do?

- Donna

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Dear Donna:

Oh, dear, Miss Fifi knows this may seem like a drastic situation, but I don't think it's too serious. Have you checked with your dog's vet yet to make sure there is no serious medical issue at hand? If not, then I would suggest that be your first line of defense. Secondly, there are a number of pet behavior specialists listed on the WRAL.com Pets page that may be able to assist you, as well.

That said, you could also consider that your dog is having a bit of a diva moment. We canines are pretty smart, and although your dog is not at home alone when you're away, the babysitter is a poor substitute for mom. Meals just taste better when prepared and served by the humans in our eternal servitude (aka ... our human parents); babysitter meals taste like sawdust. It's a proven, scientific fact. Somewhere ... probably.

Good luck. Woof!

PS. The WRAL.com Pet Doctor had some discussions on picky eaters last year. They're linked in the gray box if you'd like to peruse them.