Do Just One Thing

Yes, your dog's favorite toys need to be cleaned periodically. They spend a lot of time in mouths, outdoors or just lying on the ground picking up germs and bacteria. When you're ready to clean them, inspect them first. Are they falling apart or brittle? It may be time to dispose of the toys, since small pieces that break off can be a choking hazard. Then ditch using detergents or bleach to clean them; those products can leave a harmful residue. Instead soak the toys in a white-vinegar-and-water mixture, then run them on the gentle cycle in your washing machine.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Many people are juicing fresh fruits and vegetables at home to create delicious and healthy beverages. But what to do with the dry pulp from all that juicing? One idea is to semi-compost it in your potted plants. Simply rake the top of the soil of your plants and sprinkle the dry mixture into the soil. Rake again until it is fully incorporated into the soil. Very quickly, the organic mixture will break down and become beneficial mulch for your plants. They'll thrive when you deliver great nutrition to your plants via juicing.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

The Humane Society of the United States warns that toxins found in flea treatments can harm or even kill your pet, so finding natural ways to control fleas is important to the health of the furry members of your family. Prevention and common sense can go a long way. Vacuuming carpets, rugs and furniture where your pet hangs out, along with washing his bedding in hot water regularly, can capture and kill fleas. And real lavender essential oil can also help for dogs: Add some to a natural flea soap and let the mixture sit on the coat for 10 minutes during bath time. Rinse and repeat.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION