DEAR HELOISE: Here’s a suggestion to dog owners: Before leaving your yard, have your dogs do their business in your own yard. I’ve asked dog owners who have allowed their dogs to use the lawn in the front of my home to do their business, “Why don’t you use your own yard for the dog to defecate?” The usual response is “Hey, I’m picking up after my dog.”

Picking up after your dog is fine, but the scent remains and attracts other dogs to the same area. Then dog owners wonder why their dogs are given a bad rap. Well, I say pick up the dog’s droppings from your own yard.

• A.M.S., in Connecticut

A.M.S., I strongly agree with you. Yes, it’s good that people pick up after their dogs, but a certain number of people don’t. It’s not fertilizer; it’s “doggy poo,” and it’s unsanitary.

Owning a pet has certain responsibilities. Let your dog use your yard as his place to potty, then pick up the remains. If you live in an apartment and have a dog (hopefully a small one), I understand the problem, but you still need to pick up after your dog.

To cat owners who have potty pans to empty, please pour the soiled litter in a plastic bag, secure the top of the bag, and toss it in the trash. We all love our fur babies, so let’s dispose of their waste respectfully.

• Heloise

DEAR HELOISE: When brushing, you only need a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Any more is not effective and wasteful. Rinsing after brushing is a nonissue as you should be using a mouthwash that protects your teeth and can be spit out after rinsing for the required length of time. You should also not eat or drink for at least 30 minutes to allow it time to work. None of this should be swallowed on purpose.

On another note, telemarketers are the reason why there is a “Do Not Call List.” If you are on the list and they still call you, they should be reported. So, if one calls, just tell them that your number is on the list, and you will be reporting them if they call again. Then hang up. Manners are not important here. They are harassing you.

• Ann, via email

DEAR HELOISE: I found a great new job for my beloved mop! I use it in my kitchen to clean my walls and ceiling (especially above the range). I’m not comfortable climbing up ladders, so this really works out for me! It’s absolutely amazing how much grease it cleans up!

• Vicki G., in California

Vicki, I do the same thing, and it is quick and easy because of the disposable cleaning sheets. I don’t have to worry about falling off a ladder, and I clean the ceiling more often.

— Heloise