LITTLE ROCK — DEAR HELOISE: Be very careful when throwing “fetch” objects to your dog so that they aren’t thrown too high. Dogs love to leap up to catch things, but they can seriously injure themselves when they come down the wrong way. My service dog (hearing) is an older rat terrier thatloves to catch tennis balls. We were playing the other night when he jumped up to catch a ball and sprained his back. He couldhave been more seriously injured. This is a common injury, and one that easily can be avoided. Now the ball is thrown at dog level.
- A Reader, via e-mail
DEAR READER: We are glad your companion dog is all right. Consider the age of your pet for play and exercise.
DEAR HELOISE: Another use for a turkey baster: to help “drain” water from small aquariums for dwarf frogs or fish. Animals stay in the aquarium and aren’t disturbed too much.
- Mo in California
DEAR READER: And speaking of aquariums, here’s a hint from Jane in San Antonio: “To make my fish aquarium really pop, I taped a mirror to the outside of the tank, so that it looks in on the fish. I have used artwork from my kids in the past (pictures of fish and turtles, etc.), which looked great, but the mirrorgives the aquarium a fresh and modern look. It’s especially pretty at night with the top light on.”
DEAR HELOISE: I have a hint regarding dog tags for your beloved pet. We recently rescued a Westie who has a health issue requiring daily meds for the rest of his life. I had a tag made, in addition to his name tag, that states his health issue and the phrase “Needs meds.” I always enjoy your columns - especially the ones dedicated to pets!
- Donna Schennum, via e-mail Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or e-mail
HomeStyle, Pages 42 on 10/23/2010