Do Just One Thing

If you’re thinking of adopting a dog and really want to make sure you choose one that’s the best “climate friendly” breed, just look at their coat. Dogs with thick, heavy coats (think Siberian huskies) and those that have difficulty breathing with their short noses (like a French bulldog) do not do well in hot climates. Those with short coats also do not do well if the temperatures dip way below freezing. Owning either breed can push heating and cooling costs way up. It sounds silly, but it’s something to think about and -- more important -- always adopt, don’t shop.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you’re fastidious about mowing your lawn, this tip might be challenging, but try it anyway: Let the last few weeks of the mowing season pass without that chore. Grasses, wildflowers and even weeds that grow wild produce seed heads, which are essential food for birds in the fall and winter months. When birds are making their annual migrations, they’ll stop to feed on the seed heads of grasses and weeds. When the ground is covered in snow, the tall plants will poke through and provide much-needed sustenance for a variety of birds. If you can’t allow your whole yard to grow wild, even a small section of unmowed lawn can help our feathered friends.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

It’s common knowledge that houseplants can help clean your indoor air. But did you know they can also “signal” for help? Aloe is an easy-care plant that can help purify the air inside your home, and it’s a powerhouse: It absorbs formaldehyde, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. However, when the toxicity of the air in your home is excessive, the aloe plant becomes spotted. It’s a natural way the plant reacts, signaling that something may be awry in your home.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION