Dear Readers: Are you relocating and need to get Fido, Fluffy or Tweetie Pie to where you are going and don't want to drive? Did you know that many airlines these days have "preferred pet" shipping, where you can ship your dogs, cats and birds in climate-controlled and pressurized comfort? The larger your pet, the more the cost will be.

Here is a checklist of hints to help you get ready to ship an animal:

Call (or check the Web site of) individual airlines to find out what their restrictions are.

Make your reservations by phone as far in advance as possible.

Arrive at least two hours early to be sure all is in order.

Some pets (dogs, cats and household birds) can be carried on board in the cabin with you. Each airline has special requirements and fees, so call to check. There also are a limited number of animals allowed on each flight, so make your reservations as early as possible.

Remember that in hot climates, certain breeds of short-nosed dogs and cats cannot fly in the heat of the summer or to some destinations.

Purchase only an airline-approved pet carrier.

Attempt to get a nonstop flight, and earlier in the day is best.

Freeze little clip-on dishes of water the night before the flight so they will thaw slowly.

Do NOT put towels, blankets, toys or pet food inside the crate unless approved by the airline. Don't muzzle, leash or put a choke collar on your crated pet.

Always write your contact info and the pet's name on the outside of the crate with a black marker.

There may be other additional charges. Some examples are kennel storage fees, terminal handling charges and veterinarian care. You must pay these before you can pick up your pet. So, be sure to ask about additional charges before making a reservation.

— Heloise

Dear Readers: Haydee Braune of Madison, Maine, sent in a photo of her white cat Penny hiding inside a white Christmas tree. Haydee says: "Penny is a year and a half old. I tried to decorate my Christmas tree (last year), but within a few hours everything was on the floor. After three days of this, I took the tree down. I'll try again this year."

To see Penny in the tree, visit www.Heloise.com.

— Heloise

Dear Heloise: I use generic baking soda sprinkled in our cat litter boxes after scooping, maybe twice a week, and change and wash once a month or so. This economical action keeps the litter fresh-smelling.

— Debbie Carpenter, via e-mail

Some kitties can be a bit picky about their litter boxes. So, you may need to introduce the baking soda slowly. Keep an eye on it to be sure kitty is still using the box with the soda added. This is a purr ... fect hint.

— Heloise

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