One-Trial Learning...

One thing that I hate about cats is when you have to constantly make sure they aren't going to run out the front door when someone opens it.  So...we successfully engaged in a one-trial learning procedure with Buffy during the first winter we had her.  Every year, a few days before Christmas, the Rosedale Fire Volunteer Fire Department drives around the neighborhood with three fire engines, with sirens going, lights falshing, Christmas music blaring, and Santa waving from the back.  After taking Buffy outside in the very cold weather while the Rosedale Christmas Circus went by seemed to work...she never acted like she was going to make a run for it.  This year was Spike's turn.  But, as you know, she is a manace and it did not go as smoothly.  She REALLY freaked out, made sounds I have never heard a cat make, and I had some single trial learning of my own....

Good news...I think it worked.  This morning, on my way out the door, I realized I forgot something so I walked back in and looked at Spike from the front door...when she promptly ran like a bat out of hell down the stairs.  I think she has a healthy fear of what lies beyond that front door now.  Mission accomplished.  Minimal damage.