Dear Abby: Keep dogs on a leash.
Dear Abby:
Please remind your readers that it’s important to keep their dogs on a leash for their pets’ protection as well as the protection of those around them. In my community, leash laws are rarely enforced, and it’s common to see dogs running loose in city parks. The result is an increase in dogfights and unwelcome contact with people.
Coyote attacks also are common here in the West, and small dogs often are the victims. Marge in Phoenix Dear Marge:
I’m glad you wrote. Unless dog owners are in an area where it is designated their animals can run loose — such as an off-leash dog park — their pets should be leashed for their own safety as well as that of others. Off-leash dog parks (and beaches) provide a place for pets to exercise and socialize while also encouraging compliance with leash and “scoop” laws.
Pet owners must remember that coyotes are intelligent and highly adaptable. While they mostly do their hunting at night, they have also been known to “grab a snack” during the day. And when I say “grab,” I’m being literal. It has happened in an instant in front of the owner.
Dear Abby:
I’m moving in a few weeks and have asked my girlfriend of two years to move in with me. She’s considering it, but I suspect she’s unsure about it because I am pretty messy at times — underwear tossed on the floor, plates piling up in the kitchen every other day, etc.
I know if I could get my act together she would happily move in, which is something I really want. Can you please give me some tips on becoming better at cleaning? I would hate for her to move in and feel like my maid, or worse, not move in at all. Ready to Cohabit Dear Ready:
Your problem may be less that you’re messy than that you’re a procrastinator. These are some basics:
Buy a large wicker basket and keep it in a corner of your bedroom or closet. When the underwear and socks come off, toss them into the basket instead of on the floor. When you remove your pants and shirt, instead of throwing them over a chair, hang them up.
After you’re finished eating, either put your plate, silverware, etc., into the dishwasher or handwash them immediately and put them where they belong. Try it for a week, and you’ll be amazed at how tidy your place will be.