Don't leave pet in hot car — ever!

Dear Readers: Since summer is here, it's time to take a few minutes to remind everyone: Do not leave your pets in a car. Even if you think you are going to be gone only a minute, do not leave your pets in your vehicle, even with the window down! (In many states it's illegal.)

Did you know that if it is 85 degrees outside, the inside of a car can reach a temperature of 102 degrees in only 10 minutes? So, please leave Fido or Fluffy home when you run errands! — Heloise

Note: Remember, dogs don't sweat like humans — they pant, and that's how they cool down.

Dear Heloise: For those of us who have pets — in my case, two cats — feeding them two cans of wet food per day generates a lot of can tops. These are very sharp, so I keep the large plastic butter containers, and after rinsing off the can tops, I store them in the tubs. This saves cutting my hands when the tops are in the trash and recycle bins. — Bev King, Kerrville, Texas

Dear Readers: The Thomsen family in Magna, Utah, sent in a photo of their cat, Piddle. Piddle loves to sit on the exercise bike and watch his family. They say that if they watch a movie, he parks on the exercise bike with paws hanging down like a rag doll. His name, Piddle, is not because he has a problem that way. He's never had an accident yet. — Heloise

Dear Heloise: We have a small, light-colored dog, and the white fur around her eyes gets a little discolored from "dog sleep," as I call it. My vet suggested the following: Use plain baby shampoo. It is gentle and won't burn a pet's eyes. Mix 1 part shampoo to 10 parts water and then, using a cotton ball or pad, gently wipe the area several times until most of the discoloration is gone. Then wipe with warm tap water. He did say that if the buildup is really bad and continues, you might need to take your pet to the vet for a checkup. — Meryl Ann, via e-mail

Did you know that when you get a new puppy or kitty, it is important to check its collar? Pets can grow quickly and outgrow their collars. The easiest way to check the collar is to slip two fingers in between the collar and your pet's neck. When fingers no longer fit, change the collar. — Heloise

Dear Heloise: Have you ever had a little four-legged friend beg for a bite when you are eating? I've found a way to keep your pet happy . . . and us owners, too.

Put a little dog food in a dish on the table, and when he begs, give him a bite of his food. He'll be so happy to get to eat with you. — Mrs. Ellen Hayes, Columbus, Kan.

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