HELOISE: Learning about help with vet bills

Dear Heloise: Thank you for your column! I’m hoping you may have some information to help me. I am almost 70 years old and have been alone 15 years.

I love cats, dogs, birds — something for company! My dilemma? I would feel it immoral to not be able to pay for vet bills should I get a pet and have them. Is there any provision for those who need help financially for an ill or injured pet? I have no car any longer, and I long for a pet to give a lot of love to.

Annette in Oregon

Annette, we can help you find a pet to love! Get to know a vet or ask for suggestions from friends. Tell the vet of your general financial situation, and should surgery or something serious arise, the vet might be able to find an organization to help you, or might work on a payment plan.

However, think about a pet that doesn’t need as much vet care or usually have “big” medical emergencies such as cats or dogs. A parakeet, small bird or even a goldfish could fill the void. It would provide a bit of companionship — birds sing and some talk, while fish swim back and forth, are calming to watch, and some do have personalities!

If you go the dog or cat route, check with your food bank as well. Many now offer food for pets.

Heloise

Dear Readers: Christi Palmer of Wichita Falls, Texas, sent us a picture of her 2-year-old, short-haired orange cat, Sir Oliver Heathcliff, sitting on his tail by the fireplace. Christi says he is one funny and smart cat! To see Sir Oliver and our other Pet Pals, visit www.Heloise.com and click on “Pets.”

Heloise

Dear Heloise: I recently retired, and my staff made a donation to Southeastern Guide Dogs, Palmetto, Fla., in my honor. I had toured the facility and seen the wonderful work done to give the blind independence through a silent partner! It quickly became my charity of choice. My staff’s thoughtful generosity meant more than any other gift possibly could.

Bonnie in The Villages, Fla.

Dear Heloise: The personal weeklong medicine boxes are wonderful for things other than medicine. I think these pill containers would work well for fish food. The small divisions from Sunday to Saturday would hold a small amount of food for fish or other animals, such as turtles. My sister also uses larger ones for medicines for her dogs. Love your advice.

Betty Harris, Goffstown, N.H.

Dear Heloise: Each morning after it rains, I take an old cup with me and pick up the worms in the driveway as I walk up to get the newspapers. I deposit these worms in large pots or planters. I recycle worms!

Carolyn in Auburn, Calif.

Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, fax it to 210-HELOISE or e-mail it to Heloise@Heloise.com.

King Features Syndicate