HELOISE Suggestions provide economical toys for birds

Dear Heloise: For my parakeets, I take old compact mirrors that break apart from the compact, cut and/or file the sharp edges, then fit these mirrors through the cage bars. My birds have loved them for years, and the mirrors are free.
I also created a special swing by using an inexpensive bird swing with a wood perch and metal frame. I purchased a bag of clear, colored beads (in order to avoid any paints or finishes that could be toxic to my babies), pulled out the wire frame from the wooden swing perch, then added a few of these beads and put the swing together again. I chose larger beads that were not small enough for the birds to swallow and choke on, but not so large as to scare them
Also, key rings linked together are great toys for birds. You can add a small, safe bell at the bottom. Make sure to not use the rounded bells with openings, because the birds can get their claws stuck in them. Tina the Animal Mom in Baltimore
Tina, thanks for these economical ideas for toys for birds. Just be sure that there are no sharp edges or areas where the birds could get hurt. Heloise
Dear Heloise: Take along that drink! When traveling in the summer with small animals, take an empty plastic container and fill it with water and ice chips. The lid makes a perfect bowl when flipped over, and the container is airtight and won't leak. It's convenient and cheap! Christina Schilling, Columbia City, Ind.
Dear Heloise: In answer to your reader who had problems with her kitten scratching upholstery: I solved that problem and other kitten indiscretions by keeping a spray bottle of water handy. My kitten soon learned that when he misbehaved, he got a little water in the face -- harmless but effective! Sally Currie, Farmington, N.M.
Dear Heloise: I read a column where you gave hints about feeding your dog treats. My dog loves cooked carrots and broccoli. He does not like fruit, though. My veterinarian says raw carrots are good for cleaning a dog's teeth, but my sweetie will not eat them raw. He does love his veggies, and they are good for him and lower in calories than dog treats. Lois Leach, via e-mail
XSend a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000, or you can fax it to (210) HELOISE or e-mail it to Heloise@Heloise.com. I can't answer your letter personally but will use the best hints received in my column.
King Features Syndicate