"My response has been to always put the lid and seat down. It takes the same amount of effort, it prevents stuff from accidentally falling in it, and it keeps the pets out of the bowl. My three sons and I always put the lids down."
Good for you! I just wrote about this. It's very practical.
"I wonder why the females in the house don't put the lids down when they are finished doint their business?"
I don't know. Did you ever explain the supreme practicality of this? As a female they should have more to lose down that toilet than you! I always put down covers.
I have difficulty bending to put a seat up OR down. I use my cane to raise it, but she puts it down afterwards. AND she always looks before settin'.