HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR HELOISE: There are so many homeless people in this country, and many of

them sleep on the streets and park benches in horrible weather conditions because they will not leave a cherished pet. Why are there so few shelters that will make accommodations for pets?

You’ll see the same thing when there is a hurricane or tornado, when shelters will refuse a bed to someone because they have pets. Rather than leaving someone stranded and in danger, wouldn’t it be better to allow the homeless to take their animals with them? Wouldn’t it be better to have a paid veterinarian on hand than have an animal control officer chase down a stray animal?

Homeless people are seldom homeless by choice, so maybe it’s time to look inward to our own problems before we offer aid to others.

— Stella Y., Cleveland

DEAR READERS: New uses for a crochet hook:

■ To pull hair and gunk from a bathroom sink.

■ Pull torn threads of garments to the inside for mending.

■ Pull up a zipper on the back of a garment.

DEAR HELOISE: I have tree sap on my sweater! How can I remove it?

— Sherrie W., Alpena, Mich.

DEAR READER: Tree sap is mostly sugar, so you’ll need to soak it. Soak the garment, or just the spot, in warm water. This will take time, so please be patient. After it has soaked for a while, rub the spot between your fingers to loosen up any remaining sap, rinse and soak some more. After the sap is removed, rub the area with a little detergent and wash as usual.

DEAR HELOISE: Every night before I sleep, I like to read for an hour or so because it relaxes me. However, it seemed as though I was up and down to get reading glasses, a bottle of water, a pen or something else. Finally I got wise and made up what I call a “bed basket.” I get my little basket with a handle and go around the house to gather up what I need, such as water, a book, glasses, etc. Now I can relax in bed, and when I get tired, just turn off the light and go to sleep.

— Kelly D., Hamilton, Ohio

DEAR READER: What a great idea! So many people watch TV or their computer before going to bed, but taking a short break away from the blue light helps people get a better night’s rest.

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

Heloise@Heloise.com