Calypso Earns Her Kibble

A few years ago, I was part of a Focus Group on cat litter, thanks to Miss Muffin's presence in our lives. For two weeks, I had to use a new version of Fresh Step with "odor-eliminating charcoal" and then participate in a videotaped follow-up interview. We got an entire 25-lb bag of the litter for this time period, which was way more than enough, and then I was compensated $75 for my time. Not bad! I praised Muffin for "earning her keep," especially since the remainder of the litter lasted a few months, even though the product didn't hit the market until several years later.

Now Calypso is getting the chance to earn her kibble! I was asked to be part of a Focus Group about Pet Care, and apparently my responses to the screening questions were appropriate, since I was accepted as part of the study. This time, I have to keep a Pet Care Diary for two weeks as "homework," for which I'll be compensated $35. At the end, I'll participate in a 2 1/2 hour group meeting, and I'll receive another $85 for that activity. Sweet! The black-and-whites rule!