Tip for week of Dec. 12:

Watch for inadequate winter doghouses in your neighborhood—do the owners know of newer products for dog houses? Install a vinyl door flap. A raised floor helps as well. Purchase a doghouse heating pad or line the house with 6″ of loose hay bedding and replenish regularly. A heated water bucket is a must. Tuck the doghouse next to a building to block the wind and face the entrance away from prevailing winds.