Pet Party Line is a column written by Beth Byrd and is featured weekly in The Citizen News, one of our local newspapers.

Favorite Pet Hints

• Since it’s time for spring cleaning, sprinkle plenty of baking soda on your dog’s bed, let it sit for several minutes, take it outside to shake it well and then it will be nice and fresh-smelling! If your doggie sleeps in the bedroom, keep a water bowl on top of a pretty plastic place mat so she doesn’t have to go to the kitchen in the middle of the night.


• Keep all of your pet’s toys in a basket in the corner of the family room. This keeps everything neat and tidy. Some owners even keep sweaters, leashes, collars and shot records in the basket so you’ll always know where to look.


• If you feed your dog or cat soft food, spray the dish with some nonstick spray before adding the food. It surely makes cleaning a lot easier. Use a plant pot to elevate your pet’s food or water dish. This is especially helpful for older animals.


• Make sure there is plenty of water available every day and in the hot summer, add a couple of ice cubes to the water to keep it cool. Many pets just love to eat the ice cubes.


• Please write us with your helpful hints and any cute stories you might want to share about your pets.


• Finally, a Happy Birthday this week to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals which turns 140 years old. Keep up the good work!