Dear Readers: The colder months are just gearing up; it's the perfect time for a discussion on pet safety in winter:
- Make sure microchips and tags are up to date.
- Put together an emergency stash of dog food, medications and water in case you have to travel, have to leave your home in a hurry or the power goes out.
- Reflective leashes and vests are a good safety in"vest"ment for walks on short winter days and long nights.
- Your pets probably will fight this hint, but booties will protect their paw pads from salt and ice. If they won't keep the booties on, wipe their feet upon coming inside.
- The formula has now changed, but if you have old antifreeze, dispose of it properly. Antifreeze used to taste sweet, but of course it's toxic.
Winter is coming, so be prepared.-Heloise
PET PAL
Dear Readers: Leo and Lori P. in Augusta, Maine, sent a picture of their adorable 11-week-old lilac rag doll kitten, Lexi. They say Lexi loves to be in front of the camera, and why not? She's very beautiful!
To see Lexi and our other Pet Pals, visit Heloise.com and click on "Pet of the Week."
Do you have a pet who is celebrating this holiday season? Send a picture, some information on your pet and an amusing anecdote to: [email protected]
WHAT WAS THAT?
Dear Heloise: We seniors can have hearing loss; it's fairly common. Here are some symptoms to watch for:
If you have trouble following a conversation, if high voices are hard to hear, if you have a ringing in your ear, if you answer questions wrong or if the neighbors complain that your TV is too loud, you should have your hearing checked.
Lots of these symptoms can be treated if caught early. Ask your doctor.-Robert P. in Los Angeles
LINT LIFTER
Dear Heloise: With pets, we love lint rollers. Lint rollers clean couches, the car interior, ourselves and the dog. When my in-laws visit, we issue them a lint roller in their guest room. There are different varieties: masking tape, hook-and-loop, washable and other types.-Mary H. in Indiana
MAKEUP MASTER
Dear Heloise: I love to wear makeup. It makes me feel pretty, but a little goes a long way. A strong made-up eye look, complete with liner, lashes and shadow, needs a subtle lip and cheek.
Or I can also wear a bright matte lipstick, but then I do minimal eye makeup and, again, a pale cheek. Pretty perfect!-Jillian J. in New York
Jillian, keep makeup tools clean and dry. Wash brushes once a week, and discard sponges frequently, too.-Heloise
King Features Syndicate