Helpful Hints

DEAR READERS: You're walking in your neighborhood and you come upon a dog you don't recognize. The dog may be lost. What should you do? Safety is always your first priority.

If the dog is acting wildly, call animal control, but if you can approach the dog, use a soft voice and move slowly. Check for a collar and ID tags.

Get the dog to a safe space, preferably to a veterinarian office, where a scan can be done for a microchip. Next, take a picture of the dog and create a poster with a description of the dog, including its sex.

Distribute the posters around the neighborhood, at shelters and at all the veterinary clinics in town.

DEAR READERS: According to The Humane Society of the United States (www.humanesociety.org), cats need to stay indoors, not only for their safety, but for the safety of birds and other wildlife.

DEAR HELOISE: I enjoy your column, especially your travel hints. When traveling abroad I like to wear shirts with a zippered hidden pocket to hold my passport, credit/debit card and cash. It is much easier to access these items than using a pouch worn under a shirt.

-- Roland C., Indiana

DEAR HELOISE: I don't feel safe putting my home address in my car's GPS system, because if my car is stolen, whoever took it could easily find out where I live. I put the address of my veterinarian, who's office is close by. I start my directions from that address and I feel safer knowing that the thief doesn't know where I live.

-- Tom in Wisconsin

DEAR HELOISE: I enjoy reading your column in the Orange County Register. I had a dog tag made (do-it-yourself machines are available at most pet stores), and I attach it to the shoelaces of my walking shoes. I never have to think about it -- I have it with me whenever I wear those shoes.

-- Charlotte S., Brea, Calif.

DEAR READER: It's always a good idea to have some kind of ID on you when walking or jogging alone in case you become incapacitated.

DEAR HELOISE: I found an easy way to spread a wonderful aroma throughout my living room. I use a clip-on car air freshener and I attach it to my floor fan. It works really well and lasts a long time.

-- Betty in New York

Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email

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HomeStyle on 04/04/2020

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