Q: How can I organize scraps of ribbon?

— Kathy Callos, Media, Pennsylvania

A: Keep them neat by wrapping them around a rectangular piece of cardboard. Group them by color or material, then secure each ribbon with a ball pin. File the cardboard in a box or bin.

Q: I’ve mastered making a simple vinaigrette, but I’d love to expand my options. Any recommendations for other easy dressings?

— Fernanda Autry, Waxhaw, North Carolina

A: Any vinaigrette is, at its most basic, a balance of oil and acid. Experiment with various combinations of each, then adjust the flavor with herbs, spices and other items from your pantry or fridge.

Q: How can I get my dog to take her medicine?

— Lori Lalonde, Toronto

A: It depends on the form the drug comes in and your pet’s diet, says Barry Kellogg, senior veterinary advisor at the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association. Follow his techniques:

• If the drug is a liquid, pull out the side of your pet’s cheek and, with a syringe or teaspoon, squeeze or pour the medicine into her mouth. Avoid tilting her head back or forceful squirting, which can cause choking. Reward her with praise or a treat.

• If it’s a pill, push it into a piece of hot dog or cheese, a spoonful of peanut butter or any treat you know your pet enjoys. The trick is not to put the pill in the first bite of food but to hide it in a subsequent one. This will prevent your pet from suspecting something is in all her treats and avoiding them altogether.

• As an alternative, you can try pushing the pill into your pet’s mouth — beyond the base of the tongue — and holding her head high until she swallows. Follow up with a reward. This method works best for pets on highly restricted diets that cannot or will not take medication with a treat.

Q: What’s the trick to crisp waffles? Mine always turn out too soggy.

— Julie Servantez, Milton, Wisconsin

A: All it takes is a little patience. First, preheat your waffle iron and start with room-temperature ingredients — a cold batter can lead to undercooking. Next, make sure each waffle is fully cooked before you open the lid of the iron; you’ll know it’s ready when the steam stops billowing out. Remove the waffle and gently toss it back and forth between your hands several times, allowing steam to escape before it hits the plate. Finally, top it with syrup and butter just before you’re ready to eat — and enjoy!

Q: I have a hard time washing the insides of my thin-necked bottles and vases. Any suggestions?

— Mary Ellen Wollam, Oviedo, Florida

A: Enlist the help of a fizzy mix of vinegar and baking soda, following these steps. The bubbles will do the work as they seep into angles and crevices.

Froth up

Working over a sink, fill the vessel with 2 inches of white vinegar. Add baking soda until it foams. When the foam subsides, scrub off stubborn grime with a narrow bottle brush.

Do the twist

To absorb moisture (and prevent residue), insert a twirled paper towel. Leave a bit of towel sticking out at the top so you can pull it out when the bottle is dry.