Dear Heloise:

Dear Readers: Beth D. in Pittsburgh shared two pictures of her adorable black pug, Fergus, “helping” her with her ironing. He is lying on the clothes, thereby pressing them!

To see Fergus and our other Pet Pals, visit www. Heloise.com and click on “Pet of the Week.”

Do you have a funny, faithful furry friend? Share a picture! Email Heloise@ Heloise.com.

— Heloise

Dear Heloise: I purchased a large storage container for $5 — the type that you would slide under your bed to store sweaters, etc. — to use as a roomier litter box. Regular cat boxes are much more expensive, and this helps to keep more litter in the box. — Linda in Arkansas

Be sure to still scoop daily, and scrub often, too. — Heloise

Dear Heloise:

As we age, we are constantly reminded to take precautions to avoid falling. Here are two that I think could be good reminders and practices to adhere to:

Never walk away from the dishwasher leaving the bottom rack open. With an open-room concept, dishwashers often are located at the corner of the kitchen and easily can be walked into. If you must leave the dishwasher open, be sure to also leave the top rack pulled out. This is easy to see and will avoid a fall.

This seems like common sense, but always pause for a very brief moment before going down stairs, and use the handrail. It takes only a moment to misstep on that first step and fall.

I enjoy your column every day, and hope these tips can help someone to pause, think and avoid a fall.

I have found that pipe cleaners, located in the crafts section, are inexpensive and useful for so many things around the house. I use them to tie extension cords, lights, craft projects, etc.

A package of assorted colors usually is around $1 and can be used to mark all those various cords in one’s office area. They can be cut easily to the needed size and are so easy to untwist as needed.

— Wendy S., Mexia, Texas