Housebreaking requires patience, consistency

Heloise
Heloise

Dear Readers: Housebreaking a new dog or a new-to-you dog requires two things above all else: patience and consistency! Here are some doggone good hints to help:

  • Make sure that dogs know where they are allowed in the house. Training time is NOT a good time to let your dog have free roam of the house.
  • A crate works well as the dog's own space, and for many it's a "safe haven." Line with an old shower curtain topped with plenty of newspapers for easy cleanup.
  • Frequent bathroom breaks are a must! Especially upon waking up and an hour or so after eating.
  • Positive praise works far better than negative words.

-Heloise

P.S. Woof, woof from Chammy and Henry VIII, our two dog adoptees!

 

PET PAL

Dear Readers: Terri G. emailed a picture of her absolutely precious Yorkie, BoJangles, in a festive red-and-white-striped tie-so cute! To see BoJangles and other Pet Pals, visit www.Heloise.com and click on "Pet of the Week."-Heloise

 

TASTY BREW

Dear Readers: For many of us, myself very much included, a good cup of coffee in the morning is a great way to start the day! Delicious and satisfying, the aroma, warmth and flavor all come together to say "yummy in the tummy."

However, a dirty coffeepot can spoil the day. Coffee-bean oils and sediment can gum up the workings. Clean the pot with hot, soapy water. Rinse well and dry to prevent a buildup.

To clean a drip coffee maker, run a few cups of full-strength vinegar through once and let it sit in the unit for 20-30 minutes. Then turn on, run through a second time and follow with several cycles of water. It's ready for the next pot of joe. I've compiled my favorite coffee, tea and hot-chocolate recipes in a handy pamphlet. If you'd like to try the recipes and learn more about coffees and teas, it's easy! Just send a long, stamped (70 cents), self-addressed envelope, along with $3, to: Heloise/Coffees and Teas. P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001. Or you can order online at www. Heloise.com. Some folks insist on filtered water, but tap water from my tap works just great. The real hint is to wash (with soap and water) the pot often, NOT just rinse with water and put it back.-Heloise

 

ID PROTECTION

Dear Heloise: I forgo a paper shredder, preferring to tear my bills, etc., several times and toss them into a trash bag, and then I scoop my used cat litter in there.

I seriously doubt anyone will riffle through used cat litter for my personal information. Cheap and easy.-Betty in Grand Rapids, Mich.

 

EASY GRIP

Dear Heloise: After having trouble with my fingers sliding down the barrel of a ballpoint pen, I wrapped a rubber band around the lower part several times.

Result: No slipping through my fingers, and more comfortable writing!-W. Glenn H., via fax

 

King Features Syndicate

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