Think before buying the latest trendy pet

Dear Heloise: Thank you, thank you, thank you! Your great and timely article giving guinea-pig guidance was just super! I wish this type of guidance would be required reading when dogs or cats become the pet of the day. The movie "101 Dalmatians" just about ruined the breed! Every breeder in the country was producing as many puppies as quickly as he or she could. This is a breed that has health issues, which registered breeders are carefully addressing in their breeding programs. There were deaf dogs being dropped off all over the country. — Sue J., San Antonio

Sue, many rescue groups and readers have expressed your sentiments exactly. So, folks, please stop and take a minute to think before bringing a pet into your home, especially the current trendy animals in movies or comic strips. — Heloise

Dear Readers: Beverly Sullivan of Kerrville, Texas, sent us a photo of her orange-striped tiger cat, Harold, who is lying quite comfortably in the bathroom sink. — Heloise

Dear Heloise: Please, please, please give some advice on cleaning bird cages.— A Reader, via e-mail

We've had several birds through the years, and they do like to drop seeds all over. Newspapers that are folded or cut into layers make great liners for a cage. You can cut them to size and set several down at one time, and then remove one or two sheets each day. You should be able to slide out the drawer at the bottom, fold up the first layer or two and toss it into the garbage. The papers should be changed daily for the health of your bird and to control smells.

For cleaning the cage, it's best to use a bird-safe cage cleaner (follow label directions). DO NOT use commercial spray cleaners, as they are toxic to sensitive bird lungs.

Cages should be deep-cleaned once a week at minimum. Again, use a bird-safe cage cleaner, and be sure to clean drawers, grates, perches and toys. You might need a sturdy brush to get into all the nooks and crannies. If perches are chewed or permanently stained, they should be replaced.

Rinse the cage completely, and don't put your bird into the cage until it is completely dry. — Heloise

Dear Heloise: If your pet would benefit from elevated foo d and water dishes, don't go out and spend a fortune on them! Instead, purchase two clay pots — the opening on each should allow the food/water dishes to set in them securely. Add some rocks to the inside of each pot to weigh them down, and you now have a more affordable alternative! — Adrianna in Texas

Dear Readers: Make plans for your pet to be cared for after you die. There are many ways to do this: a pet trust, in your will, a designated guardian or a caretaker. Check laws in your state. — Heloise

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