Empty cat-litter buckets collect recyclables

Dear Heloise: I enjoy reading your column in the (San Angelo, Texas) Standard-Times. Here is another suggestion for the cat-litter buckets. I use one under the kitchen sink to collect recyclables: tin and aluminum cans, plastic drink bottles and glass containers. When full, I carry the bucket to the garage to separate the contents into larger containers.

Thanks for all you do to make our lives less complicated. Mary Allen, San Angelo, Texas

Good hint, Mary! Here is another hint, from Rachel M.: “I did not like seeing the large product labels on the cat-litter tubs, so I purchased some very inexpensive self-sticking shelf liner and covered all the labels. The tubs now look much more attractive and can be used anywhere in the house. I made my own labels for each tub — one to store the bag of dog food, one for pet supplies and one for cleaning supplies.

“I also use the plain tubs outside for gardening tools, potting soil and as a small trash can while I prune my roses. The tubs come in very handy, and they stack well, too!” Heloise

Dear Readers: Shirley Jackson of Springfield, Ohio, sent a photo of her black-and-white cat, Dolly, doing her best to hide behind a curtain, although her black tail gives her away! She has been in the household for eight years, and Shirley said that Dolly is a sweet and gentle cat and that she is her precious companion. Visit www.Heloise.com to see Dolly’s tail! Heloise

Dear Heloise: Trying to keep a sheet or blanket to cover our leather couch from scratches from our pets was just about impossible. Then I tried putting a nonslip rug mat under the blanket. No more slipping and sliding. Jeanne, Bedford, N.H.

Dear Heloise: Each Saturday, I read your pet hints. With spring on the way, reminders need to be given to pet owners and nonowners alike. More dog owners will be out walking their dogs. It is important for everyone to remember not to pet a dog without the owner’s permission. How do you know if that dog is friendly or not? Breed does not dictate the dog’s personality. Instead of learning the hard way, just ask.

Also, to fellow dog walkers out there, clean up after your dog. No one likes to see the “gifts” your dog has left. Use those plastic bags from your last shopping trip to clean it up and place it in your garbage can. Christine McDonald, via e-mail

King Features Syndicate