Chester is our animal encyclopedia and he would love to hear your questions. Send them to Chester, c/o What's Up Kids Family Magazine or e-mail funsection@whatsupkids.com. You could win fabulous prizes if we use your questions.

We have a new puppy and he’s afraid to go down the stairs. How can I teach him so he doesn’t hurt himself?
–Marisol R, Toronto, ON

Well well well... as you probably know, cats just do not have these issues. (Deep breath Chester) Okay, okay... I'll help your puppy out. Take some of his dinner (probably some form of yucky kibble), and put him up a couple of stairs. Let him see you have a piece of his food (apparently this works best if he is hungry--dogs have such a one-track mind). Place a piece on a step below him. Watch him carefully and encourage him gently to come for it. As he learns a few steps, gradually increase how many steps are in between him and the treat. Eventually he will be confident enough to trot down by himself, but watch him carefully for a few trips. If this doesn't work... get a cat.