At this point, keeping Ernie away from all cats would be best. If possible give him the run of the house for several hours a day while you keep Myrtle and the kittens in another room. Then while Ernie is crated in another room, let Myrtle get a good sniff around where Ernie has been. This will help her realize that the dog belongs but is not a threat to the kittens.

In about a month when the kittens are older, let a leashed Ernie sniff at the friendliest one - without Myrtle around of course! If the kitten doesn't hiss at Ernie then you could do this on a regular basis. Don't involve food for a long time though.

Also keeping Ernie in his kennel and letting the kittens climb on it (again withough Myrtle around) might work out in a few weeks when the kittens are more independant.

There are two products to try - a Comfort Zone plug in with Feliway for cats and the matching one for dogs. This might help keep things calm.

After Myrtle is spayed you should reintroduce gradually just as if she is a new pet.

I would recommend you consult the folks at the dog forum for more help in getting Ernie to accept cats once again.
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Smile, it will make them wonder what you are up to!

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