Hints from Heloise

Dear Heloise: We have a cute little canary that loves to sing when looking in a mirror. While cleaning his cage, I accidentally broke the mirror, so my husband handed me an old CD to put in the cage until I could get to the pet store. That was several months ago, and he is still perfectly happy with his “substitute” mirror.

Also, I use an old tube top around the bottom of his cage to help contain the seed hulls and whatever else he chooses to pitch out. – Bird Lover, via e-mail

Dear Heloise: My cocker spaniel is 14 years old. I devised a bed for her that is washable, off the floor and comfortable.

I use a net rack for drying sweaters, etc., that sits off the ground about 4 inches. I added a fuzzy, washable dog mat and another washable pet mat on top – no additional cost, and it makes a cozy, warm and washable bed. – C.L., Terre Haute, Ind.