Pricey Postage. Ages of Rocks. Safer Sofas. Tiny Terrariums. Pure Wine. Statin Stats. First VP To Resign. First Labor Day.

 

For "Summary Saturday", or News, Some New, Some Old:

Going up: First-class stamps to cost 49 cents soon

Pony Express-stamped letter, 1860, courtesy of the National Postal Museum

Mailing a letter is about to get a little more expensive. The new rate is effective Jan. 26.

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How do we know how old a rock or fossil is?

"Dear Dave,
How do geologists determine the age of an ancient volcanic eruption or a glacial advance? How do we know how many years ago Tyrannosaurus lived?" Bertina H., Saint Louis, MO

"Bertina, Geologists, paleontologists and archaeologists often want to know the age of a soil deposit, a rock layer (such as a lava flow), or the fossils in the rocks. We speak of two types of 'ages'. 1. Relative age is the relation in time between rock layers (and the fossils they may contain). Relative age can tell us that a particular rock layer is older or younger than another. It CAN'T tell us if a rock or fossil is 3 million or 300 million years old. 2. Absolute age is the time in years before the present time. If the rock can be dated at all, the absolute age can be determined. An example: a lava flow is determined to be 32.4 million years old (almost always with some imprecision, expressed. for example, as " ± 0.2 million years").
This week I'll deal with relative age. I'll tackle absolute age in a future blog post. That will help us understand how long ago Tyrannosaurus lived.
There are some basic laws that state the principles of relative ages of rocks. Geologists apply these to the rock record to determine sequences of time.

The "Law of Superposition" says that any undisturbed sedimentary rock layer that lies above another is the younger of the two. This principal was formalized in the mid-1600s by a Dane, Nicolas Steno, who is among the founders of modern geology.

Steno's Law of Superposition says that the rocks higher in the stack are younger than those below. Sounds like common
sense now, but this was a radical thought in the 1650s, when all sedimentary rocks were held to be the same age: deposited by Noah's Flood over a period of 40 days and 40 nights.

More at: http://askdoc-rock.blogspot.com/2013/07/how-do-we-know-how-old-rock-or-fossil-is.html

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Calif. Ends Rule That Poisoned Us with Flame Retardants

"The reason most furniture sold in this country contains flame retardants is a 1975 California regulation called TB 117, which requires furniture foam to withstand an open flame for 12 seconds before igniting. Because the vast majority of furniture fires start from cigarettes, which smolder rather than flame, the open flame standard has been shown to be largely ineffective at curtailing furniture fires. In other words, much of our furniture contains flame retardants that end up in our bodies and our children’s bodies, but that do not protect us from fires.

Thankfully, last week California revised its flammability regulations, changing them from a chemical-dependent open flame standard, to a smolder standard that can be met with non-toxic fabrics. Taking effect starting in January 2014, the new rule eliminates the need for furniture makers to inject the chemicals into upholstered chairs, sofas, and other items.

Given the widespread presence of flame retardants in consumer products containing foam, this change comes none too soon. As one small reminder of the problem, here is a chilling study by the Center for Environmental Health, which found these toxic chemicals in 38 out of 42 pieces of children’s furniture that were purchased and evaluated."  More at: http://earthjustice.org/blog/2013-november/calif-ends-rule-that-poisoned-us-with-flame-retardants

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Magical Miniatures: How to build terrariums with kids

"As winter approaches, a terrarium, generally defined as a glass or plastic container used for growing plants indoors, is a wonderful way to keep a little green in your life as well as a creative way to keep kids engaged with nature.

“Looking for the tiny plants and mosses that make up the terrarium requires close inspection of the small things underfoot—the kinds of plants and lichens that many people simply pass by or step on,” Salter said. “Building terrariums puts those humble wee plants on center stage and gives kids a chance to marvel at them.”

One of the great things about terrariums is that they can be built very inexpensively. Salter’s grandmother picked up cool jars and glass containers at yard sales to use in her creations. In Martin’s book, she describes making terrariums with everything from fish bowls to canning jars to vases, items you may already have in your home."     More at: http://greatkids.outdoors.org/2013/11/magical-miniatures-how-to-build.html

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Pure Wine

An Amazing Fact: "In 1869, Dr. Thomas Bramwell Welch, a physician and dentist by profession, successfully pasteurized Concord grape juice to produce an “unfermented sacramental wine” for fellow parishioners at his church in Vineland, New Jersey.

He was inspired to do this after a visitor became drunk and unruly following a communion service in which fermented wine was used. Since antiquity, there have been several methods of preserving wine from fermenting, but they always sacrificed much in the way of taste. Dr. Welch’s process preserved both. Today, Welch’s Grape Juice is an international food company.

Alcohol consumption is a national problem in America. It destroys people’s ability to think clearly and act properly. Tests show that after drinking three bottles of beer, there is an average of 13 percent net memory loss. After taking only small quantities of alcohol, trained typists were tested and their errors increased 40 percent. Only one ounce of alcohol increases the time required to make a decision by nearly 10 percent, hinders muscular reaction by 17 percent, and increases errors due to lack of attention by 35 to 60 percent.

Using the illustration of grapes, Jesus said, “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit” (John 15:1, 2). When we do not abide in Christ, the fruit that we bear is permeated with sin. Like fermented grape juice, the results of a life without Jesus are impure, broken, and impaired. Unless we are connected to Christ, we will not bear good fruit. Unless we abide in Jesus, we will be cut off.
Spend time with the Lord every day. Press the Word against your heart. Talk to God in prayer. And let the pure spiritual “wine” flow, unfermented by sin, out of your life to bless others."

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Consumer Alert: 300+ Health Problems Linked To Statin Drugs

"A growing body of clinical research now indicates that the cholesterol-lowering class of drugs known as statins, are associated with over 300 adverse health effects -- research boldly flying in the face of national health policy, medical insurance premium guidelines, statin drug manufacturer advertising claims, and the general sentiment of the public, with approximately 1 in every 4 adult Americans over 45 currently using these drugs to "prevent heart disease."

The Cholesterol Myth

For well over 40 years, statin drugs have successfully concretized a century old myth about the primary cause of heart disease: namely, that cholesterol "causes" plaque build up in the arteries, ultimately leading to obstruction of blood flow, and subsequent morbidity and mortality.

Indeed, the medical establishment and drug companies have been singing the praises of this "cholesterol myth," to the tune of 25 billion dollars in statin drug sales, annually.

While it is true that oxidized low-density lipoprotein is found within the atheromatous plaque that is found in damaged arteries, it is less likely a cause than an effect of heart disease. The underlying damage to the lining of the artery, which could be infectious, chemical, stress and/or nutritionally-related, comes before the immune response that results in plaque buildup there.

Blaming LDL cholesterol for causing heart disease, is like blaming the scab for the injury that caused it to form, or, like blaming the band-aid for the scab it is covering -- this is, after all, the inborn and fatal flaw of allopathic medicine which focuses only on symptoms of disease, which it then -- fool-heartedly -- attempts to suppress by any chemical means necessary.

Death By Statins?

No one can deny that statins do exactly what they are designed to do: suppress cholesterol production and reduce measurable blood serum levels. The question is, rather, at what price do they accomplish this feat, and for what ultimate purpose?

Moreover, statin myotoxicity is not exclusive to skeletal muscle. If you consider that the heart is also a muscle, in fact, is our most tireless muscle, an obvious red flag should go up. It is a remarkable fact that it took over 40 years before the biomedical research and publishing fields were able to produce a human study, like the one published in the Journal of Clinical Cardiology in Dec. 2009, showing that statin drugs, despite billions of advertising/marketing dollars to the contrary, actually weaken the heart muscle. This finding may also explain why rates of heart failure may be increasing in the general population given these drugs."       More at:  http://www.greenmedinfo.com/blog/consumer-alert-300-health-problems-linked-statin-drugs

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On This Day:

Calhoun resigns vice presidency, Dec 28, 1832:

"Citing political differences with President Andrew Jackson and a desire to fill a vacant Senate seat in South Carolina, John C. Calhoun becomes the first vice president in U.S. history to resign the office.

Born near Abbeville, South Carolina, in 1782, Calhoun was an advocate of states' rights and a defender of the agrarian South against the industrial North. Calhoun served as secretary of war under President James Monroe and in 1824 ran for the presidency. However, bitter partisan attacks from other contenders forced him out of the race, and he had to settle for the vice presidency under President John Quincy Adams.

In 1828, he was again elected vice president while Andrew Jackson won the presidency. Calhoun soon found himself politically isolated from national affairs under President Jackson. On December 12, 1832, Calhoun was elected to fill a South Carolina Senate seat left vacant after the resignation of Senator Robert Hayne. Sixteen days later, he resigned the vice presidency.

For the rest of his political life, Calhoun defended the slave-plantation system against the growing anti-slavery stance of the free states. In the early 1840s, while secretary of state under President John Tyler, he secured the admission of Texas into the Union as a slave state.

Together with Andrew Jackson, Daniel Webster, and Henry Clay, John C. Calhoun dominated American political life in the first half of the 19th century.

For his second term (1833-1837), Jackson's Vice President was Martin Van Buren, who followed him as the 8th US President."

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America's first Labor Day, Dec 28, 1869:

"The Knights of Labor, a labor union of tailors in Philadelphia, hold the first Labor Day ceremonies in American history. The Knights of Labor was established as a secret society of Pennsylvanian tailors earlier in the year and later grew into a national body that played an important role in the labor movement of the late 19th century.

The first annual observance of Labor Day was organized by the American Federation of Labor in 1884, which resolved in a convention in Chicago that "the first Monday in September be set aside as a laborer's national holiday." In 1887, Oregon became the first state to designate Labor Day a holiday, and in 1894 Congress designated the first Monday in September a legal holiday for all federal employees and the residents of the District of Columbia."

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Yesterday:

For the first time in a few days, Misty didn't get me up during the night to go out.  But she still doesn't hold her tail high, so I hope she isn't in pain.  That inoperable tumor is getting bigger.

Friday is a 'Preparation Day', so I was doing all that I could, to be prepared for the Sabbath. 

Luke 23:54 - And that day was the preparation, and the Sabbath drew on.
Mark 15:42 - And now when the even was come, because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the Sabbath.

After feeding the animals their breakfasts, I put some chicken broth and chopped up veggies in the crockpot for the church potluck, and while that was cooking, I touched up my grey roots.    If I don't do that, I look like a dull, dingy, washed out snow tiger with light and grey hair mixed. (TMI)

Ray came over, and raked and burned some more. There were even more visitors at his house, and he wanted out of there.  He raked up the pine needles on Lot 3, (my side lot), and those in front of his son's house, next door to me. 

Peekers, my foster kitten goes to our SPCA Cat Habitat on Sunday for a month, unless he gets adopted during that time.  He is a sweet, purring, playful, happy, well adjusted little guy, so I don't think it take him long to be adopted.  Nala, my shy foster cat, is supposed to be in the Habitat with him, but I think she will stress out again and have to come back here.  They had to have their Revolution put on their necks, and all their medical records and care instructions printed out, ready to go with them

Another thing I did was postpone the nuclear stress test.  I didn't think that New Year's Eve was a good time to expect the best medical care.  I know they are professionals, but it just didn't seem to be the best time to do it when they are  anticipating getting off for the evening's revelry.

I should have gone shopping yesterday, but I postponed that to conserve on gas, as I have to take the foster cats to Conroe anyway on Sunday.

Shutdown Hits Home. Turtles & Tortoises. Baby Lions, Tigers, and Bears. Cats Are Carnivores. Toxic Treats. Puppy Mills. Door Stops. Wake Island. "War On Terrorism".

 

For "Mammal Monday". About mammals, other critters and events:

Shutdown Hits Home for National Park Service Personnel

“When the parks reopen, I will be furloughed for at least two pay periods if the sequester cuts continue. So not only will I not be paid for the days I miss during the shutdown, but also for at least a month in the coming year.” - Estee Rivera Murdock, Community Engagement Park Ranger at Saguaro National Park

"Our national parks provide visitors with a window into America’s history, natural beauty, and cultural diversity. However, when the government shut down on October 1, all 401 national park sites closed. Overnight guests were asked to leave, visitors are being turned away at entrance gates, and more than 21,000 National Park Service employees have been furloughed indefinitely.

One of the most visible effects of this shutdown is the blocked entrance gates at national parks and monuments that are turning away an estimated 750,000 visitors a day, including frustrated veterans, heartbroken brides, and disappointed school children. Another story worth telling is the emotional and financial toll on Park Service employees, especially on the heels of a challenging sequester that deeply cut park budgets, coupled with the threat of continued cuts.

The current government shutdown has Alan O’Neill, a retired superintendent from Lake Mead National Recreation Area, reminiscing about impacts from the shutdown in 1995/1996. “It was not the National Park Service’s choice to close the parks, but Congress’,” he stated. “Unfortunately, some people were blaming the National Park Service for denying access. It wasn’t easy to ask people to leave; we wanted the people to enjoy the public lands.”  More at:  http://www.parkadvocate.org/emotional-and-financial-toll-of-government-shutdown-hits-home-for-national-park-service-personnel/  By Emily Douce, Budget and Appropriations Specialist

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If You See a Turtle in the Road

Give them a brake.  Help them find their way and remain wild.

"Have you ever been driving down the road when that tire fragment in the distance begins to move? As you get closer, you realize that the tire fragment is actually a turtle, slowly attempting to cross the highway.

Turtles often make this perilous journey to get to a good, sunny location with loose soil in which to lay eggs, and to return back to familiar territory—be it a woodland, pond or desert burrow.

It is in just this situation that so many turtles lose their status as wild animals and are consigned to an unnatural, and unnaturally short, life in a back yard. By all means, help that turtle cross the road in the direction she (or he) was heading, if you can do so safely. But then leave her in the wild where she belongs."

"Low, slow, and amazing, turtles once roamed Earth with the dinosaurs. Now many species on land and in water face extinction. If you're a turtle fan, help us protect them. One easy way: Enjoy turtles in the wild, not as pets. It's safer for both you and for these fascinating reptiles.

Turtles are often killed or taken from the wild as pets, food, or trinkets before they reproduce. For many populations of turtles, the loss of only a few adults can spell doom.

Development and pollution destroy their land and water habitats, fishing nets drown them, and cars crush them—the threats to turtles have never been greater.

Never keep wild turtles or tortoises as pets or buy them from a pet store.

Getting a turtle as a pet is risky for you, too: They carry Salmonella. That's why it's illegal to sell small turtles, though many are sold illegally."

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Threatened Gopher Tortoises Rescued from Fla. Construction Site

The 28 gopher tortoise eggs saved from a development site in Apopka, Fla., started hatching on Sept. 6. Matt Aresco

"After 47 days in the field, 227 threatened gopher tortoises have been spared an inhumane death and 28 gopher tortoise eggs have been saved from a development site in Apopka, Fla. The Humane Society of the United States, Nokuse Plantation, D.R. Horton and Bio-Tech Consulting teamed up to rescue the tortoises and eggs from the Rock Springs Ridge subdivision before relocating them to a permanent home at Nokuse Plantation, a nature preserve in Walton County. The eggs started hatching on Sept. 6."  More at: http://www.humanesociety.org/news/press_releases/2013/10/fl-threatened-gopher-tortoises-rescued-100113.html

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Baby Lions, Tigers, and Bears Are Not Stuffed Toys

"Across the country, the public can pet, feed, pose with, and play with wild animals at malls, fairs, and roadside zoos for fees ranging from $10 to $500. To facilitate such unsafe handling, baby tigers, lions, bears, and primates are pulled from the care of their protective mothers shortly after birth.

When the baby animals can no longer be used as play props, or for photographs -- sometimes after just a few months -- they are often discarded at shoddy roadside zoos, sold into the pet trade, or killed for their meat. This cycle of breeding, exploiting, and then dumping baby animals puts animals at risk and endangers the public.

In response to a legal petition from a coalition of animal protection and conservation organizations -- including The HSUS -- the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is requesting comments on whether to prohibit public contact and close encounters with big cats, bears, and primates."  More at: Please urge the USDA to prohibit this cruel and dangerous practice»

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Kitten Fed Vegan Diet by Vegan Owners Nearly Dies at Animal Hospital

"The case of a kitten near death brought to an animal hospital in North Melbourne, Australia provides another example of why it’s so important for pet owners to understand the dangers of feeding biologically inappropriate diets.

The kitten was extremely weak and collapsed when it arrived at the clinic. The kitty’s vegan owners had been feeding it a diet of potatoes, rice milk and pasta. Vet staff provided the kitten with IV fluids, a heating pad, and meat to eat. He stayed in the hospital three days, and when the owners came to pick him up, they were given meat to feed the kitten at home."   More at: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/09/25/vegan-diet-dangers.aspx

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Toxic Treats

  "A U.S. magistrate judge has ruled a federal class action lawsuit against the manufacturer of toxic chicken jerky dog treats will go forward.

 

A year  ago, Del Monte and Milo’s Kitchen filed to dismiss the lawsuit brought by a pet owner who claimed Milo’s Kitchen brand chicken jerky treats made in China caused kidney failure in her dog, resulting in the need to euthanize her pet."  More at: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/10/02/chicken-jerky-manufacturers.aspx

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Feds to Puppy Mills: No More Business As Usual

"September marked a historic month in the long struggle against puppy mills as the USDA finally tightened federal regulation of online retailers. For years, a glaring loophole granted unethical puppy mill profiteers unfettered access to internet sales. A lack of even minimal oversight meant deplorable conditions for the animals and deceitful marketing that conned customers into believing they were purchasing happy and healthy puppies.

New regulations promise to reign in these rogue retailers with licenses and inspections. The rules will apply to any breeder with four or more breeding females, with the protections extending to breeders of cats and rabbits as well."  More at: http://theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/clickToGive/ars/article/Feds-to-Puppy-Mills-No-More-Business-As-Usual650

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Heroic puppies fight against their natural enemies -- spring door stops.

 

 

 

 

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On This Day:

Japanese execute nearly 100 American prisoners on Wake Island, Oct 7, 1943:

"On this day in 1943, Rear Adm. Shigematsu Sakaibara, commander of the Japanese garrison on the island, orders the execution of 96 Americans POWs, claiming they were trying to make radio contact with U.S. forces.

The execution of those remaining American POWs, who were blindfolded and shot in cold blood, remains one of the more brutal episodes of the war in the Pacific."

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President Bush announces military action in Afghanistan, Oct 7, 2001:

"On this day in 2001, less than a month after al-Qaida terrorists flew commercial jets into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 11, President George W. Bush announces that American troops are on the offensive in Afghanistan. The goal of Operation Enduring Freedom, as the mission was dubbed, was to stamp out Afghanistan's Islamic fundamentalist Taliban regime, which had aided and abetted al-Qaida and its leader, Osama bin Laden, a Saudi national who lived in the Afghan hills and urged his followers to kill Americans.

Bush touted the multinational effort as proof that America, in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, was "supported by the collective will of the world." He also warned that the war in Afghanistan would likely be only the first front in a long struggle against terrorism. He vowed to continue to take what he called the "war on terror" to those countries that sponsored, harbored or trained terrorists."

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Yesterday:

Apart from someone who came to look at the heat/air conditioner that I have for sale, it was a quiet day at home. They measured the AC and said they would be back, but they didn't return.

That gave me time to make some almond butter and sunflower seed butter in my auger juicer. That is done by not using the juicer insert, but the blank insert instead.

I noticed that Misty is putting on a bit too much weight, even though I carefully measure what she eats.  I'll have to take her for more walks.

It is the first time since last winter that I had to run the heat today. 

Earth Day. Keystone Pipeline. Run For The Wild. Beavers Save Bay. Fur Farm. Curious Cub. Migration Corridor. Kind News. Baby Wildlife. Kill the Bad Bills. President Nixon.

 

For “Mammal Monday”:

Seeds of National Wildlife Week Sprout for Earth Day Celebration

“While celebrating National Wildlife Week in March, we told you about the many roles of trees in the lives of wildlife. Birds, insects and critters — from the diminutive shrew to the huge moose — rely on trees, just as we do in our daily lives. After dedicating National Wildlife Week to a celebration of trees, we also set a goal of planting 75,000 trees this year.

National Wildlife Photo Contest entry by Helen Anderson.

Those efforts began in earnest during National Wildlife Week, and will continue this weekend as Americans observe Earth Day. There are events happening across the country, so please join in and plant a tree this weekend. See if there is a local tree planting happening near you. If not, you can sponsor a tree planting event! And of course, you can donate today to help us reach our goal of planting 75,000 trees.” More at: http://blog.nwf.org/2013/04/seeds-of-national-wildlife-week-sprout-for-earth-day-celebration/   from Wildlife Promise

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Controversial Keystone XL pipeline

“Today is Earth Day, the day that millions of Americans pause to celebrate the wonders and natural beauty of our planet and the movement that has grown in the past 40 plus years to protect it.

Ironically, April 22, 2013, is also the final day of a final public comment period on the controversial Keystone XL pipeline, the proposed massive 1,700 mile long experiment in pumping dirty oil from the Tar Sands in Canada to the Gulf Coast in Texas. Along the way, the proposed Keystone pipeline will crisscross some of the most productive farmland and on the planet, putting the livelihoods of America’s farmers and ranchers and our food supply at risk.

James Hansen, America’s leading climate scientist has already called Keystone “game over for the climate” if approved. Join tens of thousands of America's farmers and everyday citizen's to Stop Keystone!   This Earth Day the stakes couldn’t be higher, Obama has a choice: climate redemption or permanent climate chaos.” http://action.fooddemocracynow.org/sign/save_the_planet_stop_keystone/

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Keystone Pipeline Foes Vent in Nebraska

“The Keystone ‘Export’ pipeline is not in the national interest, and it is most certainly not in Nebraska’s interest,” said Gotschall. “Our landowners have been left to fend for themselves against an onslaught of dishonest land agents and corporate bullies.”  More at: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/19/us/foes-of-keystone-pipeline-sound-off-in-nebraska.html?_r=0

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WCS Run for the Wild

Julie Larsen Maher ©WCS

“The finish line is in sight! Registrants for this month's WCS Run for the Wild are busy getting in shape, collecting donations for elephants, and counting down to the big day. If you'd like to join them, your last chance is now! Sign up today to guarantee your place at the starting line on Saturday, April 27. All adult participants are required to raise at least $30 to help us make tracks for elephants.

Your registration includes:

• Free all-day access to the Bronx Zoo
• Staggered starts for runners and walkers/ families
• Free t-shirt for registered children
• A host of great prizes for fundraisers of all levels”

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Beavers Save Bay from Brunt of Spill – But Pay the Price

“When oil spilled in Willard Bay State Park, a beaver dam stopped the fuel in its tracks. Unfortunately, many of the beavers were caught in the fuel.”

One of six beavers caught in an oil spill at a Utah state park rests at a wildlife center. Photo by the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Northern Utah.

“Beavers have proved over and over again how valuable they and their impressive dams are. The wetlands created by the dams increase and support biological diversity. The dams filter silt and pollution from water. Recently in northern Utah, beaver dams performed a truly amazing service: they stopped the worst of an oil spill from spreading to a freshwater reservoir.

Unfortunately, the dams couldn’t protect the beavers. The diesel flowing from a break in a pipeline covered beavers, including a mother and her two kits. Volunteers and staffers at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Northern Utah are working to save six of the animals caught in the spill discovered March 18 in wetlands at Willard Bay State Park. All the beavers are improving, although two yearlings exposed to the oil for days are still in rough shape.”  More at: http://blog.nwf.org/2013/04/beavers-save-bay-from-brunt-of-spill-but-pay-the-price/ 

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Video of Fur Farm Operating Without License Provokes Outrage

“Estonia's largest fur farm has continued to operate without a license for three years, despite protests from environmentalists who say the living conditions of more than 150,000 animals are highly questionable.

The biggest fur farm complex in the Baltics, Balti Karusnahk, is located 30 kilometers from Tallinn, in Karjaküla. The largely Finnish-owned farm keeps American minks, foxes and raccoon dogs.

Last fall, local animal rights activists secretly filmed animals on the farm, and the footage is shocking. The video - showing badly injured, paralyzed and dead animals - was aired on ETV.”  More at: http://animalconnectionblog.blogspot.com/2013/04/video-of-fur-farm-operating-without.html

and: http://www.animal-rights-action.com/fur-farming.html

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Just Another Curious Cat

Ullas Karanth/WCS

“A tiger cub meandering through India's Bhadra Tiger Reserve couldn't resist investigating a remote camera trap set up to monitor local wildlife like itself. Look closely, and you'll see a second camera in the background, which likely snapped images of the curious creature's rear. The more photos, the better. No tiger sports the same pattern of stripes, so researchers are able to use pictures to identify individual cats and track their movements. WCS has worked in the region since the 1980s, and we're delighted to report that Bhadra's tiger numbers are on the rise, thanks to conservation measures.”

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Safe Passage for Pronghorn

 Julie Larsen Maher ©WCS

“The Path of the Pronghorn is the country's only federally designated migration corridor, but until last fall, animals risked vehicular collisions as they navigated the 93-mile-long passage to and from Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park. With the guidance of WCS and partner organizations, highway overpasses were created at key points along the route. A new video documents this innovative solution to providing safe passage for pronghorn, mule deer, moose, elk, and motorists alike.”

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Children are the Future

“If there's a child in your life who loves animals and wants to learn more about them, our sister publication Kind News is for them! Kind News features profiles of amazing kids, articles about rescued animals and species in trouble, pet care tips, how-to pieces, and more. Get a free classroom subscription when you subscribe or renew your subscription to Animal Sheltering magazine. Subscribe today, and help make kind kids»”

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Spring Kicks Off Wildlife Baby Boom

Human intervention may result in orphaned babies, injured wildlife.

“Wildlife baby season is here, which means people may come face-to-face with newborn animals during their spring-cleaning. Wild animals can be accidentally injured or orphaned when people trim trees, mow lawns, clean chimneys or find them trapped or nesting indoors.
There is good chance that this time of year homeowners might hear tiny footsteps in the attic, scratching in the walls or even chatter in the chimney. This commotion is typically related to a squirrel or raccoon mom who has taken advantage of an opening to raise her newborn babies. While there are humane and effective solutions to solving these wildlife conflicts, many people take action that not only unnecessarily harms animals, but ends up costing much more than it would have if done right the first time.”  More at:  http://www.humanesociety.org/news/press_releases/2013/04/wildlife-baby-season-041113.html

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Kill the Bad Bills, Not the Buffalo

Bison grazing on the Fort Peck Reservation.

“Last March marked a historic step forward in restoring wild bison to the American prairies when more than 60 bison from Yellowstone National Park were released on the Fort Peck Reservation in eastern Montana.  Tribal members from Fort Peck and Fort Belknap, conservationists, and their supporters braved a cold, snowy night to watch as the animals bolted out of the trailers that had carried them 500 miles to their new home. Former Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer joined in a community celebration the next day among the rolling hills outside the pen holding the new arrivals.

It was a huge milestone in efforts to restore bison to the wild. The bison is the one large mammal driven to near extinction that hasn’t been re-established on the Western landscape. Elk, deer, big-horn sheep

As important as the transfer of bison to Fort Peck was, a barrage of anti-bison bills in the Montana Legislature makes clear that the path to further progress will be anything but smooth.   It’s time for a halt to the war on bison. Will you stand with the tribes and their conservation allies? Will you stand with the bison?”    More at:   http://blog.nwf.org/2013/04/kill-the-bad-bills-not-the-buffalo/   from Wildlife Promise

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On This Day:

The first Earth Day, Apr 22, 1970:

“Earth Day, an event to increase public awareness of the world's environmental problems, is celebrated in the United States for the first time. Millions of Americans, including students from thousands of colleges and universities, participated in rallies, marches, and educational programs.

Earth Day was the brainchild of Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin, a staunch environmentalist who hoped to provide unity to the grassroots environmental movement and increase ecological awareness. "The objective was to get a nationwide demonstration of concern for the environment so large that it would shake the political establishment out of its lethargy," Senator Nelson said, "and, finally, force this issue permanently onto the national political agenda." Earth Day indeed increased environmental awareness in America, and in July of that year the Environmental Protection Agency was established by special executive order to regulate and enforce national pollution legislation.

On April 22, 1990, the 20th anniversary of Earth Day, more than 200 million people in 141 countries participated in Earth Day celebrations.  Earth Day has been celebrated on different days by different groups internationally. The United Nations officially celebrates it on the vernal equinox, which usually occurs about March 21.”

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Former President Richard Nixon dies, Apr 22, 1994:

“On this day in 1994, former President Richard M. Nixon dies after suffering a stroke four days earlier. In a 1978 speech at Oxford University, Nixon admitted he had screwed up during his presidency but predicted that his achievements would be viewed more favorably with time. He told the young audience, "You'll be here in the year 2000, see how I am regarded then."

Nixon did not owe his success in politics to personality or charm: in fact, even many of his staunch supporters described him as cold, aloof, crude, arrogant and paranoid.  His paranoia of political sabotage by his opponents had inspired him to authorize the wire-tapping of enemies and supporters alike. Ironically, it was the conversations he taped in his own office that led to his ultimate downfall.

Nixon was correct in assuming that some aspects of his leadership would be judged favorably with the passage of time. These include his bold efforts to improve diplomatic relations with China and Russia, as well as pushing lasting and influential legislation through Congress. Nixon's legislative legacy includes the National Environmental Policy Act, passed in 1969, which created the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Clean Water Act of 1972 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973. He also lowered the voting age to 18, established Amtrak, launched the space-shuttle program and authorized the formation of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). During his retirement, several subsequent presidents consulted Nixon for his expertise in international affairs.

Nixon and his wife Pat are both buried on the grounds of his birthplace in Yorba Linda, California. The site is also the home of the Richard Milhous Nixon Presidential Library.”

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Yesterday:

Gumdrop got over her fear of Misty, and strolled around the house investigating everything, including the top of the refrigerator!

Someone asked what is a ‘diluted calico’ cat, so I took some pictures. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As you can see her coloring is very faint and delicate, rather beautiful, I think.

She is gradually learning that the kitchen is MY territory, and “Get Down” means not to get up on counters and refrigerators. 

Taking care of her and Misty, catching up on emails,  researching things on the web, and installing my new doorbell took up most of the day.

Nature Apps For Kids. Importance of Predation. 10 Cat Myths. Real Cost of Dry Pet Food! Do Dogs and Cats Need Grains? Tiger Cubs. Cats and Milk. Corps of Engineers.

 

For “Mammal Monday”:

The Best Apps for Kids who Love Animal Facts

“Kids should have screen time that is ideally connected to increasing their creativity. As a wildlife conservationist, I would also love it if they learned something about wildlife.”

Our Favorite Kid-Friendly Nature and Wildlife Apps

I searched for “best kids nature apps” and most apps I found did not teach about wildlife or nature. Most had a cute animal as the main character teaching how to read, do math or make art. While those are great goals, I was looking specifically for apps that increased my kids’ knowledge of wildlife and nature.

These apps reward you for learning facts about animals or nature. They usually require the ability to read.  These apps are listed in alphabetical order.

Click the Birdie,  Creatures of Light: Nature’s Bioluminescence  Meet the Insects: Forest Edition  Nature Tap  Ranger Rick’s Appventures  Ranger Rick’s Treehouse  Survival  Tick Bait’s Universe  Weird But True

Of course nothing connects children with nature and wildlife more than time outside, so be sure to balance your screen time and green time today.

Also, I want to put in a plug for National Wildlife Federation’s award-winning kids’ magazines, because my kids love them. When you subscribe to our magazines, it helps National Wildlife Federation continue our work of engaging children to care about nature! Subscribe to Ranger Rick and Ranger Rick Jr. magazines today!”        More at: http://blog.nwf.org/2013/02/best-apps-for-kids-who-love-animal-facts/     From:  Wildlife Promise

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State must overhaul approach to predators

Copyrighted by:

“More than 70 years ago, legendary National Park Service biologist Adolph Murie published research showing predators actually strengthen deer and elk herds by culling out the sick and weak. Numerous peer-reviewed studies followed, also affirming the importance of predation to maintain the delicate balance of our ecosystems. Unfortunately, federal and state policies have yet to true up with these findings, and our laws and regulations continue to allow for the liberal killing of important species like bears, coyotes, foxes and bobcats.”    More at: http://www.sacbee.com/2013/02/28/5223747/state-must-overhaul-approach-to.html

From me:  In other words: Don’t Mess With Mother Nature!!

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Don’t Believe It! Exposing 10 Common Myths about Cats

“A lot of ancient "wisdom" about felines isn't so wise after all.   Some of it is just plain silly – and some is downright dangerous.

The following are ten urban legends about our kitty companions that deserve debunking:

Myth: Cats always land on their feet.

Fact: Cats don't have collarbones, their backbones are very flexible, and they are extremely graceful animals. This may have led to the old wives tale that they always land on their feet. However, the way your kitty is constructed is no guarantee he won't be harmed in a fall.

Myth: You should give your cat cow's milk.

Fact: Adults of any species typically have trouble digesting the milk of another species – and that includes cats. Like humans, many cats are also lactose intolerant, and cow's milk offers no nutritional value to your kitty.

Myth: All cats hate water.

Fact: Many cats are intensely curious about the wet stuff and love moving water – a sink faucet, a water fountain for drinking, a running shower, even a flushing toilet.

Myth: Dry cat food (kibble) is best for cats because it helps clean their teeth.

Fact: Crunchy food isn't any better at brushing and flossing your kitty's teeth than it is yours. From a nutritional standpoint, dry food is the worst thing you can feed your cat – it is devoid of both the healthful, unadulterated protein and moisture cats need in order to stay healthy.

Myth: Cats that live indoors don't get sick or need to see the veterinarian regularly.

Fact: While it's true indoor living is much safer and healthier for domesticated kitties, they still need regular wellness visits to a holistic or integrative veterinarian. And no matter where your cat spends her time, if she's not eating a species-appropriate, nutritionally balanced diet, she's at risk for poor health. An annual physical examination and bloodwork to detect early organ dysfunction is priceless, in terms of being a proactive pet owner.

Myth: If you have a cat at home with an infant, the cat will be attracted to the scent of milk and can suck the air from the baby's mouth, suffocating it.

Fact: There is absolutely no evidence cats are attracted to an infant's breath, nor has there ever been a case where a cat has suffocated an infant in this manner. If you find your cat snoozing with your baby, it's because kitties like to snuggle up against warm bodies, especially in quiet, darkened rooms – which nurseries often are. Sometimes fat cats are bigger than tiny infants, hence the recommendation to keep the cat out of the nursery.

Myth: Declawing is just a permanent nail trim.

Fact: Declawing is the surgical amputation of the first joint of each of a cat's toes, and is increasingly viewed as inhumane and a form of mutilation.

Myth: Cats thrive on a vegetarian diet.

Fact: Cats are obligate carnivores, designed by nature to require animal protein. In fact, human-grade, unprocessed protein and moisture (water) should make up the bulk of your kitty's diet. Regardless of your own feelings about eating meat, please don't compromise your cat's health by feeding him a vegan or vegetarian diet.

Myth: Cats are cold and aloof. If you want a loving, loyal pet, get a dog.

Fact: Many cats are very loving. Cats are not dogs, so other than having four legs, a tail and fur like their canine counterparts, they are very different animals and comparisons don't make much sense. Dogs are by nature pack animals, while kitties are more independent. But cats that enjoy the same status in the family as dogs are often just as loving, attentive and present as their canine buddies.

Myth: Cats have nine lives.

Fact: Utter nonsense! Cats are smart, so it may appear they are "luckier" than dogs.”  From: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/07/27/dont-believe-it-exposing-10-common-myths-about-cats.aspx

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Functional, Fresh, Fast Food for our Furry Friends

“Dr. Karen Becker discusses the ins and outs of feeding an evolutionary diet to your dogs and cats.      Summary video: http://www.dogwise.com/video/video.cfm?itemid=DN302

Spun with her quick humor, Dr. Becker packs loads of information on raw feeding on her DVD.  Dr. Becker discusses in detail, the 4 types of nutrition, components of the Natural Fresh Food Diet, enemies of nutrition, the problems and consequences of feeding a biologically inappropriate diet along with therapeutic nutrition.”  Running Time: 4:00  $30.00  

http://www.naturalpetproductions.com/articles/npp.grains.pdf

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Some excerpts of Natural Pet Productions: Free Articles & Downloads

The real cost of dry pet food!
“What are you really paying for? If you know more about what’s really in those well-marketed bags of dry food, we think you’ll be more likely to add fresh foods to your animal’s diet.
How much does it cost to produce pet foods?
Most premium dog and cat foods sell for $1 – 2.00 per pound. The example below gives a detailed breakdown of a “healthy” dry food that retails for $1.50 per pound.   The manufacturer has paid 29 cents per pound for ingredients.”     More at: http://www.naturalpetproductions.com/articles/npp.costpetfood.pdf

Do Dogs and Cats Need Grains?
“The natural, ancestral diet of dogs and cats included minimal amounts of grain, yet even the “healthiest” dry foods are half grain. Help your animals live longer- feed them diets more appropriate for their bodies! Learn about the differences between the natural diet of dogs and cats and the modern diet of dry foods.
Dogs and cats are designed by nature to be primarily meat eaters
Dogs are scavengers. Their diet included almost any food that provided calories – but rarely grain.  According to a recent study by biologists Ray and Lorna Coppinger, the natural diet of dogs included ”Bones, pieces of carcass, rotten greens and fruit, fish guts, discarded seeds and grains, animal guts and heads, some discarded human food and wastes”

Cats are more selective about food by nature and anatomy: Their ancestral diet consisted of small rodents. Their usefulness to humans had much to do with their eagerness to dispatch the rodents so plentiful around human habitats.
There is almost no grain in the natural diet of dogs and cats.”  More at: http://www.naturalpetproductions.com/articles/npp.grains.pdf

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Orphaned Siberian Tiger Cubs Are Readied for New Life in Wild

Three orphaned Siberian tiger cubs sitting on a snowy trail.  WCS

"Last fall, in the frigid, snowy forests of the Russian Far East, three wild tiger cubs lost their most important ally: their mother. Our story began on Nov. 29 with a phone call to the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) office in Vladivostok.  He requested our assistance in capturing the four-month-old cubs, which had created a stir near a small village by attempting to make a meal out of a farmer’s dog.

The cubs most likely lost their mother to poachers.  Sadly, female tigers with cubs are more susceptible to poaching; rather than fleeing from humans, mother tigers will stand their ground to defend their cubs.  After their mother died, these three cubs likely remained where their mother left them until hunger drove them to abandon their vigil.”  More at:  http://e360.yale.edu/digest/orphaned_siberian_tiger_cubs_readied_for_life_in_wild/3753/

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The Most Common Reasons Cats Throw Up…

“Adults of any species typically have trouble digesting the milk of another species — and that includes cats. Like humans, many cats like milk, but are also lactose intolerant, and cow's milk offers little nutritional value to your kitty.

Treats and Milk as Potential Culprits

Another area to look at is kitty treats. What I see a lot of in my practice is cat parents who feed a very high quality food, but then give really trashy treats to their pets.

When you look at the label on your cat's treats and see they contain things like propylene glycol, FDC red #4, ethoxyquin, chemical dyes or emulsifiers, surfactants, and other stuff you can't pronounce, it's a sure sign you shouldn't be feeding it to your furry feline.

All those additives, preservatives and just plain junk can cause GI inflammation, which causes vomiting.

Last but not least is milk. Most mammals drink milk if it's offered, but it's important that it's milk from the same species. Gastrointestinal issues arise from drinking milk (‘nursing') from a different species.

Your kitty doesn't have the enzymes required to break down the milk sugar in cow's milk -- his pancreas doesn't secrete the lactase necessary to break down the lactose in cow's milk. The result? Secondary GI symptoms, including vomiting.”   More at: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/11/09/vomitting-pet-cat-health.aspx

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On This Day:

Congress establishes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mar 11, 1779:

“On this day in 1779, Congress establishes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to help plan, design and prepare environmental and structural facilities for the U.S. Army. Made up of civilian workers, members of the Continental Army and French officers, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers played an essential role in the critical Revolutionary War battles at Bunker Hill, Saratoga and Yorktown.

In subsequent years, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers evolved from providing services for the military to helping map out the uncharted territories that would become the western United States. Beginning in 1824, the Corps also took responsibility for navigation and flood control of the nation's river systems.

Today, the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers is made up of more than 35,000 civilian and enlisted men and women. In recent years, the Corps has worked on rebuilding projects in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as the reconstruction of the city of New Orleans in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.”

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Yesterday:

Just after I hit the ‘publish’ button yesterday morning at 7.00AM, the power went out.  It had been raining hard in the night and it was pitch black outside.  I groped for a flashlight in the desk drawer, and worked my way back into the bedroom where I keep those hands-free little lights that you clip on your clothes. Fortunately the coffee was already made, and the cat and dog had been fed as I had been up since 5.00AM.  I watched the sun rise from the porch, and as soon as it was light, I tried to busy myself with things to do that didn’t require electricity.  I cleaned patio door panes, TV screens, cat boxes, etc, then I ran out of things to do.  The power company called with their recorded message saying a tree was on a line and it should be fixed by 3.00PM.  I turned on my laptop and plugged my phone line into it, but I hadn’t used it for such a long time that it was just sat there updating everything. 

Just as I was putting new batteries in the radio, Ray came over and we opened all the doors in the workshop for light, and put the new water and drain hoses on the old yellow washing machine.  It used to be in Ray’s utility room, but when I took it to the repair shop Mark didn’t know if he could find the parts to fix it. So I had bought another one for Ray.  Mark did fix it, and I had kept it for a spare. As I had to take my white one over the scales last week, this yellow one should come in handy, even though I don’t like the color. 

The lights came back on at 11.00AM while we were installing the hoses, and so we wrestled it in place and tried it out.   It agitates so much faster than my old sick white one. But there was a water leak.  It wasn’t the hoses, so it must be that the water mixing valve froze and cracked while it was stored.  I did several loads of clothes, and then Ray came back over and we disconnected it.  I bought it used in 1994 after the flood drowned the other white one that I had, so I think I have had my money’s worth out of it.  I’ll take it back to the repair shop, and either get it fixed if Mark has another water mixing valve for it, or just buy another matching set when I go to town next Wednesday. 

Puppy Manners. Socializing Your Pup. Tiger Slayers. Enbridge Oil Spill. Pet Treats Recalled. George Washington. PLO Founded. New Foster Cat.

 

For “Mammal Monday”:

Top 10 DO’s and DON’Ts for Teaching Your Puppy Good Playtime Manners

“Many owners of new puppies make a number of mistakes as they attempt to raise a well-behaved dog. One of those mistakes is in not understanding the proper way to interact with a puppy so she learns good playtime manners for a lifetime.

DON'T: Continue playing with an aggressive puppy.

Stop playing immediately if your puppy is being aggressive with you personally. If he's hurt you with his teeth or claws, say a word like "Ouch!" loudly to let him know you don't approve of the behavior.

 

DO: Distract an aggressively behaving pup with a toy.

Any toy will do (except a toy that actually brings out his aggressiveness).

 

 

DO: Use a harmless spray of water or loud noise to disrupt bad behavior.

Remember — the idea is to simply halt the behavior, not create a fear response.

 

DO: Use a leash and/or head halter to control behavior.

This can be done during supervised play either indoors or out. Remember to use gentle pressure during corrections to avoid causing injury to your puppy's neck.

 

DON'T: Act aggressively yourself.  Don't try to manage your puppy's aggressive behavior by acting aggressively yourself. It's never appropriate or productive to hit or shake a puppy, or grab his muzzle.  If your pup won't stop the undesirable behavior despite your best efforts, put him in his crate or another area of the house with a toy until he settles down.

 

DO: Engage in retrieving games.

A game of fetch doesn't have to be strenuous or time consuming for you, and your puppy will tire out within a few minutes. If retrieving doesn't come naturally to your dog, incorporate treats into the game to reward her for returning the ball or Frisbee to you each time it's thrown.

 

DO: Keep your puppy mentally stimulated.

1. A rubber treat-release toy, a puzzle toy, group activities like K9 nose work and other similar pursuits will exercise your dog's mind and keep boredom at bay.

 

 

DON'T: Play on the floor.

Being down on her level puts you in a vulnerable spot and can overexcite your pup, making her more apt to mouth you, pounce on you, or scratch you.

 

DO: Incorporate basic obedience training into playtime.  Have her sit and stay as part of your interaction with her. Make sure treats are used to reward a particular behavior and aren't given "just because." Only engage with your puppy when she's following your lead. If she tries to take over, ignore her for a few seconds. Take care not to reward any behavior you don't wish to encourage.

DON'T: Mimic your puppy's behavior
during play.

In other words, don't play with your dog as another dog would. Dogs play rough, and your pup could unintentionally hurt you. As a general rule, it's not a good idea to wrestle or get physical with your dog. You might inadvertently encourage aggressive behavior, and in addition, it's best to remain in a leadership role whenever you interact with her.”   From: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/01/25/dos-and-donts-raising-dogs.aspx

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The Critical Importance of Socializing Your Puppy

“Did you know behavior problems are the number one cause of relinquishment of dogs to shelters?

Another very disturbing statistic: over half the dogs entering shelters in the U.S. will be euthanized.

It’s a well-known fact that puppy classes help prevent behavior problems and increase the likelihood a dog will become a great pet and lifelong companion.

Given the reason most dogs are turned in to shelters and the success of early socialization in preventing behavior problems, it seems obvious the risks associated with an un-socialized dog are much greater than the minimal risk of disease transmission during puppy classes.

Your puppy, just like your child if you have one, can’t grow into a healthy adult without your help and leadership. I often tell my clients, “Good puppies aren’t born, they’re made.”

You wouldn’t dream of confining your child to your house and yard all her life, or decide to begin parenting your child at 18 years of age, when they have developed concerning behaviors or habits. Yet that is the situation many puppies grow up in – with owners who later don’t understand how their cute little puppy turned into such a destructive or disobedient or aggressive animal.

Dogs are social creatures. Your pup needs interaction -- with you, other people and other animals, beginning very early in life.

Companionship is necessary for your puppy’s emotional well-being. Involve your puppy with your family, as well as friends and new faces, right from the start. If you’re crate training your pup, move the crate or playpen into a room where your family spends time together.

Contrary to what many people believe, puppies need a great deal of time and attention in order to ensure they mature into dogs who are beloved members of the family.

Timing is Everything

The most important time to socialize a puppy is during her first three months of life. For most people, that means starting the process on puppy’s very first day home.

The first three months of your dog’s life are when sociability outweighs fear, and her brain is most inclined to accept new experiences. What your pup encounters during this critical time will shape her character, temperament and behavior for the rest of her life.  If your puppy isn’t socialized during her first three months, it can increase the risk of behavior problems later in life, such as fear, avoidance and aggression. These problems can be excruciatingly difficult to fix in an older animal.

The last thing you hope for when you bring home your adorable little bundle of love and energy is that she’ll end up an ill-behaved and unmanageable adult dog, banished to your backyard or the nearest animal shelter.  That’s why it is so incredibly important to properly socialize your pup before she reaches the age of 14-16 weeks.”  More at: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2010/01/20/critical-importance-of-socializing-your-puppy.aspx

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Hunt for the Tiger Slayers

“WCS conservationists have found that the same gangs that smuggle weapons and drugs are poaching the last remaining tigers to the edge of existence. But as organized crime steps up its game in wildlife trade, WCS is fighting back, working to monitor wildlife and train more park rangers.”

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Standing Up in the Face of Disaster

“Over two years ago, the communities I grew up in experienced the largest and costliest inland oil spill in U.S. history. On July 25th, 2010, a pipeline owned by Canadian tar sands giant Enbridge Energy, burst–dumping more than 1 million gallons of raw tar sands crude into the Kalamazoo River system, sickening community members along the river and impacting untold numbers of fish and wildlife.

The pipeline that burst during the Enbridge tar sands oil spill in Michigan - July 2010

The Enbridge oil spill gave me a first-hand look into just how dangerous it is to transport raw tar sands oil, and how difficult it is to clean up when it spills. Unfortunately, federal laws governing pipelines are inadequate in several respects, and states have not passed their own laws to fill in the gaps. Enbridge knew of safety problems with the pipeline years before the disaster and because of weak regulations and poor response plans, this spill went unreported for 17 hours.”

More at: http://blog.nwf.org/2013/01/standing-up-in-the-face-of-disaster/

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Toxic Chicken Jerky Pet Treats Pulled from Store Shelves!

“First, the good news. Nestle Purina PetCare and Del Monte have voluntarily recalled their chicken jerky pet treats imported from China. The brands removed from store shelves are Waggin’ Train and Canyon Creek Ranch brand dog treats, along with Milo’s Kitchen Chicken Jerky and Chicken Grillers home-style dog treats.

Now for the not-so-good news. The reason for the recall is a potential issue of unapproved antibiotic contamination supposedly unrelated to the problem with these very same treats that has resulted in thousands of sick, and hundreds of dead pets.

Interestingly, it was the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (NYSDAM) that found the antibiotic residue in the treats. They used a new, highly sensitive test to analyze the products in response to growing consumer concerns.

So for now, the chicken jerky treats that may have been sickening or killing pets since 2007 are no longer on store shelves. Let's hope if they do reappear, they will be safe for your pets.”  More at: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/02/01/toxic-chicken-jerky-pet-treats.aspx

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On This Day:

Washington unanimously elected by Electoral College to first and second terms, Feb 4, 1789:

“On this day in 1789, George Washington becomes the first and only president to be unanimously elected by the Electoral College. He repeated this notable feat on the same day in 1792.

The peculiarities of early American voting procedure meant that although Washington won unanimous election, he still had a runner-up, John Adams, who served as vice president during both of Washington's terms. Electors in what is now called the Electoral College named two choices for president. They each cast two ballots without noting a distinction between their choice for president and vice president. Washington was chosen by all of the electors and therefore is considered to have been unanimously elected. Of those also named on the electors' ballots, Adams had the most votes and became vice president.

Although Washington's overwhelming popularity prevented problems in 1789 and 1792, this procedure caused great difficulty in the elections of 1796 and 1800. In 1796, Federalist supporters of John Adams cast only one of their two votes in an effort to ensure that Adams would win the presidency without giving votes to any of the other candidates. This led to a situation in which the Federalist Adams won the highest number of votes and became president, but Thomas Jefferson, the opposing Democratic-Republican candidate, came in second and therefore became his opponent's vice president.

In 1800, the system led to a tie between the Democratic-Republican candidates for president and vice president, Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr. This sent the vote to the House of Representatives, where Federalists voted for Burr instead of Jefferson, whom they despised. As a result, the Congressional vote ended in a tie 35 times before the Federalists decided to hand in blank ballots and concede the White House to Jefferson.

In 1804, the 12th Amendment to the Constitution ended this particular form of electoral chaos by stipulating that separate votes be cast for president and vice president.”

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PLO is founded, Feb 4, 1969:

“With Yasir Arafat as its leader, the Palestine Liberation Organization was founded on February 4, 1969. By 1974 when he addressed the United Nations, Arafat had made significant strides towards establishing new respectability for the PLO's campaign for a Palestinian homeland. But gaining legitimacy hinged on cooling down terrorism, and Arafat found it increasingly difficult to reconcile the moderate and extremist segments of Palestinian politics.”

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Yesterday:

I drove down to Conroe to do my first volunteer stint at the new SPCA Cat Habitat at Petco.  I got the key and binder from the manager, and found the habitat very frustrating and badly designed. 

The habitat is right there in the window of the store, amongst all the other items in the store. Two cats have the run of the top floor, and the other four cats had the bottom storey.

The litter boxes are in the middle which is a walk-thru for the cats, with a storage shelf above it.   Or each side of the habitat can be made into separate quarters.

But to get to the supplies, you had to unlock areas in the middle, where the cats could get out.  There was a toy that one could use to wiggle through the holes in the Plexiglas in each storey to hopefully corral those cats into one area, then you had to unlock a door and reach in to slide a panel closed.  Yeah, right!  When the doors are unlocked, there is nothing to stop a cat from pushing it open, so I was locking and unlocking doors constantly.  I could just see cats getting loose and running all over Petco. 

I was supposed to give them their morning canned meal, but when I did feel safe about unlocking each one of the four storage doors, the canned food wasn’t there.  I called Kenya, and she said she would be there in the afternoon for an orientation, so she would feed them. 

Disgusted, I drove home and thought of a way to make the habitat a lot safer.  If the storage doors were cut at shelf level, and two more locks installed, one could get to the supplies without letting any cats out.

After lunch, I thought I had better go back there and see how Kenya does it.  But I stopped at Petsmart on the way to look at their cat habitat.  It is built-in, and has a little room behind the habitat so they can even let the cats out while they tend to them.  A very costly habitat, probably installed when the store was built, a lot later than Petco.

So at our habitat, Kenya just unlocks the doors and kind of hand-blocks the cats to get the supplies that she needs. Oh, Boy! My Miss Priss better get adopted before she has to have a stint in the habitat, as she would dart out before you could say “Jack”, let alone “Robinson”!

The afternoon shift 3.00–5.00pm cleans everything with bleach, even wipes down the outside of the habitat, as we found kid’s sticky finger prints on it.

I had taken a carrier with me, as I thought those four kittens on the bottom level looked cramped, and I hoped that Kenya would let me bring one or two of them home to keep Miss Priss company.  There were too many tabbies there, anyway. Then they could have the run of my Grooming Room and Middle Room.  She let me bring Arlo, I had chosen him, as he was playfully biting my fingers, and I thought he would be a good match for Miss Priss.

“Meet Arlo.  He and his siblings were left in a taped up box at Petco during the night.  They are all doing well and are ready to go to their new homes.” http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/24856612

Ray happened to come out of his house as I was driving up, and when I told him I had a new cat, he came to see it, and helped me set up a big wire cage in the Middle Room.  We locked Arlo up in it, so that he and Miss Priss could get acquainted.  It is a mistake to introduce two animals until they have got used to each other’s smells.

Later, I locked Miss Priss up in her cage, a rare occasion, and let Arlo wander around for a while to get used to the place until bedtime, then locked him up again, and let her loose.

This morning, I have both cages open, but Arlo is just hiding from exuberant Miss Priss in his condo bed.  Miss Priss is on the top dangling her paws in front of him, saying “ Come Out and Play”.  I hope he does that today.