HELPFUL HINTS
DEAR READERS: Today’s sound off is about leaving a pet outside all year:
DEAR HELOISE: One of my neighbors got a large dog and keeps it in their backyard. They claim that it’s too large to live in the house. If that’s the case, then don't get a large dog. It’s too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter to leave a pet outside all year. A doghouse does not provide the protection a dog needs. Besides the elements, animals get lonely.
Dogs and cats need human interaction, so if you’re not willing to bring your pet indoors or feed it a healthy diet, then please don’t get a pet. — Elsa and Frank T., Arizona
DEAR READERS: Here are new uses for old neckties: Cut one down to make into a boy’s tie.
Braid three of them together to make a pet toy.
Cut them up and make into baby quilts or pillows.
DEAR HELOISE: We have a smell coming from our refrigerator. What should I do to get rid of the odor?
— Elaine J., Hollywood, Fla. DEAR READER: First take everything out of the refrigerator, including shelves. Wash down the interior with warm, soapy water, then wipe with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap. Dry with another clean cloth.
To keep refrigerator odors at bay, place an open box of baking soda on a shelf, or if you’re worried about it spilling, pour the baking soda into a plastic food container and poke holes in the lid. When it’s time to replace the baking soda (the recommendation is every three months), pour it down the drain to deodorize.
DEAR HELOISE: When you are frosting a cake, sprinkle a little powdered sugar or flour on the cake, and you’ll find the icing stays put rather than sliding around.
— Jennifer M., Nevada
DEAR HELOISE: Before I shower, I rinse and clean my hairbrush and comb. During rehab, my therapist asked me why I did that. I told her clean hair needed a clean brush.
— Hilda C., Ohio
DEAR HELOISE: With the wet and cold weather not too far in the future, it’s important that everyone wears shoes that do not slip on wet, slippery areas. Shoes that have slip-resistant technology grip, even on ice, are available at discount retailers.
— Sue Z., via email
Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email