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1 y

French Reporter's Advice: Let Biden Have Scrappy Unscripted Moments‚ 'He's Good At It'
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French Reporter's Advice: Let Biden Have Scrappy Unscripted Moments‚ 'He's Good At It'

Deadline.com is rounding up "smart" foreign observers to comment on the 2024 election‚ and Jake Kanter talked to French reporter Kéthévane Gorjestani‚ who spent time in America as president of the White House Foreign Press Group‚ meaning she attempted to gain access to Hidin' Joe Biden. While Trump engaged reporters "all the time‚" Gorestani says‚ gee‚ the feeling among reporters was that Biden's handlers were "more reluctant to engage." You think? She thinks that's a mistake. "Let Joe be Joe!"  Gorjestani explains: “At least part of his team is trying to shield him from making a mistake or saying something that makes news that they don’t want him to say. But there’s also a wide agreement among reporters that Joe Biden is never as good as when he’s off the cuff. It comes with its risks‚ but all leaders have these risks when they sit down for interviews or press conferences.” “You look at the State of the Union‚ all the unscripted moments where he’s responding to heckling from the Republicans‚ that is the best response to the criticism or the concerns about his age‚” Gorjestani adds. “He’s more than capable to engage with antagonistic calls and questions — and he’s good at it.” There's a "wide agreement among reporters" that Biden's great at "unscripted moments." Does that mean Joe had them at 'Hello'? From their lack of public complaints‚ we can suspect that many pro-Biden reporters are fine with keeping Joe under wraps‚ if that's what it takes to defeat Trump. Gorjestani was born in Washington D.C. and is a French-American‚ though she's originally from Georgia. She's reported for the French state-backed news network France 24 since 2010‚ spending four years as a correspondent in Washington. Gorjestani recently moved back to Paris‚ where she now serves as France 24’s foreign affairs correspondent‚ but she says she still keeps a close eye on America. Gorjestani says the French are somewhat bemused by the U.S. election. “How is it possible that a country like the United States cannot come up with a better choice than two old guys that nobody wants‚” she says‚ surmising the mood among her fellow nationals. 
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1 y

Can You Compost Cat Litter? Vet-Verified Facts &; FAQ
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Can You Compost Cat Litter? Vet-Verified Facts &; FAQ

Click to Skip Ahead Types of Cat Litter What Is Cat Litter Of? Risks Compared to Normal Manure If you’re interested in eco-friendly practices like composting‚ you may be going through that where you look at anything remotely natural around your home and ask‚ “Can I compost that?” Even if you’re just wondering about how to more effectively clean your litter box‚ the question still comes down to whether you can compost cat litter in the first place. Yes‚ you can potentially compost cat litter‚ but only certain types‚ and with some safety considerations. Your regular old clay litter is not biodegradable and can’t be composted at all—we’re talking about the sandy stuff you’re likely familiar with. On the flip side‚ any litter made from natural materials like paper or wood is compostable and makes a fine addition to any compost bin. A few of the more unusual choices‚ such as shredded corn husks‚ moss‚ even shredded grass‚ are all compostable too. If you’re interested in learning more about how to more efficiently deal with your cat’s litter‚ and maybe come out ahead with some nutrient-rich compost‚ you’re in the right place. Scroll down with us as we wade into a bit about the types of litter you can compost‚ the risks of composting cat litter‚ and more. What Types of Cat Litter Can Be Composted? Just about anything made from natural materials can be composted‚ but the most important thing is that the material is biodegradable. For example‚ paper rots very quickly and makes ideal composting material‚ but rock is ostensibly natural but doesn’t breakdown in your compost heap. Confused? Don’t be. There are a handful of common litter materials you can use without getting into the nitty gritty fine print. Types of Compostable Cat Litter Materials: Paper: Shredded paper is a popular dust-free alternative to clay litter and decomposes in new or existing compost piles‚ but it needs to be changed frequently to remain effective. Wood pellets: Typically made from compressed wood shavings‚ wood pellets boast high absorbency and scoopability but may be hard to clean up. Corn: Shredded corn husk litter costs more than other litters but absorbs moisture very well while controlling odor. Wheat: Shredded wheat is soft‚ absorbent‚ and controls odors‚ but it is hard to source and typically expensive. Image Credit: Anciens Huang‚ Shutterstock What Is Regular Cat Litter Made Of? We mentioned that your standard cat litter is made of clay‚ but there are other options available too. Litters have been formulated and tweaked for decades as pet companies search for the best ways to absorb and dispose of cat waste‚ and they’ve mostly stabilized for now. Let’s take a brief look at some ingredients you can expect to see in your average bag of cat litter. Bear in mind these are common ingredients‚ and they may not all be used in the same litter products together. Ingredients of Regular Cat Litter: Sodium bentonite: The most common type of clay used in cat litter‚ sodium bentonite is remarkably absorbent and clumps well when wet. Silica: Silica gel litter is extremely absorbent and effectively controls offensive litter odors. Clay: Natural clay is non-clumping‚ but is often added to cheaper litter to bulk it up and add absorbency. Risks of Composting Cat Litter Cat litter can carry a bevy of harmful bacteria that typically decompose‚ but the most concerning for humans is toxoplasmosis‚ which can still infect humans after natural litter has been composted. That means that composted cat litter should never be used on plants that will be fed to humans. In fact‚ compost containing soiled cat litter should not be used on any fruit or vegetable plants that will be fed to any animal species. Instead‚ start a second compost bin you’ll use to feed your lawn‚ trees‚ and other ornamental plants around your home. Cat litter compost may not be great for the things we eat‚ but it’s fantastic for decorative plants. Be sure to keep your compost bins separated and to handle compost containing cat litter with great care because toxoplasmosis can still infect you after you think it decomposed. Alternatively‚ cat litter compost can be heated to 150°F to kill all harmful pathogens that might linger in the mix. This technique is known as hot composting‚ where you add ingredients like meat or fruit rinds. These produce heat as they decay and can help your compost pile reach that temperature‚ but we recommend burying your cat litter in the existing pile to ensure it reaches the right temperature. Image Credit: kholywood‚ Shutterstock Why Is It Different To Normal Manure For Plants? The standard type of manure used on gardens or included in compost comes from cattle or horses. These animals are herbivores‚ and as such‚ do not harbor potentially harmful pathogens such as Campylobacter or Salmonella. This means that the manure from these species can be used on plants that will be eaten by animals and humans‚ although sometimes it’s easier not to think about that when we’re next enjoying a salad! Conclusion Cat litter may not be the most fun subject to consider‚ but if you are owned by a cat‚ it is an important one. Rather than just throwing out soiled litter‚ it may be worth trying an organic‚ biodegradable litter that you can use to fertilize your trees‚ flowers‚ and lawn. Organic litter does tend to cost a bit more‚ but it’s worth it if you’re an avid gardener who could use some extra oomph in the springtime. Sources WebMD Composting Basics PetMD https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/toxoplasmosis/toxoplasmosis_catowners.html Featured Image Credit: New Africa‚ Shutterstock The post Can You Compost Cat Litter? Vet-Verified Facts &; FAQ appeared first on Pet Keen.
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1 y

Can Rabbits See Colors? Vet Approved Facts &; Info
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Can Rabbits See Colors? Vet Approved Facts &; Info

Click to Skip Ahead What Is Color? How Do We See Color? How Do Rabbits See Colors? FAQ Rabbits can see colors‚ but their perception is not as rich and complex as that of humans. So‚ even though your beloved bunny doesn’t see the world in complete black and white‚ their visual abilities differ from yours in many ways. If you’d like to learn more about how your long-eared companion perceives their world‚ read on! What Is Color? Before we discuss rabbit vision‚ let’s briefly review what we mean by “color.” Visible light is made up of different wavelengths between 380 and 750 nm. When light hits an object‚ that object reflects part of the wavelengths and absorbs the rest. For example‚ this is why you perceive a lemon as “yellow”; it reflects the yellow wavelength and absorbs all others. Therefore‚ an object that absorbs all wavelengths of light will appear black‚ while an object appears white when it reflects all wavelengths of light. Image Credit: stevepb‚ Pixabay How Do We See Color? The retina is a specialized tissue in vertebrates’ eyes that contains photoreceptors called rods and cones. Their job is to spot the light and send electrical signals to the brain via the optic nerve. Fundamentally‚ rods are responsible for interpreting light while cones interpret colors. But to be able to “see” the colors‚ light rays must be refracted to reach the retina. Once the light reaches the retina‚ millions of photoreceptors (the rods and cones) capture it. Then‚ these photoreceptors convert light waves into information that the brain can process‚ such as color‚ shape‚ and movement. How Do Rabbits See Colors? Although rabbits don’t see in black and white‚ their color spectrum is limited. Rabbits have a dichromatic vision‚ which means they lack one of the cone types. Unlike humans‚ who have trichromatic vision and can discern a wide spectrum of colors by combining the three primary light colors (red‚ blue‚ and green)‚ rabbits can only see in blue and green. So‚ like most herbivores‚ rabbits only have two types of cones: cones sensitive to the blue spectrum and cones sensitive to the green spectrum. That said‚ since their retina has mostly rods and very few cones‚ rabbits generally have good night vision. FAQ Can Rabbits See in the Dark? Yes! Rabbits have better night vision than humans due to their rod cells‚ which provide monochromatic vision in low-light conditions. Although lacking the tapetum lucidum of many other animal species‚ which improves night vision by reflecting light onto the retina‚ the arrangement of their rods helps them see movement and shapes in the dark.  So although they can’t see in complete darkness‚ they can see well enough to navigate and detect movement at night. Image Credit: Khun Ta‚ Shutterstock Can Rabbits See All the Colors That Humans Can? No‚ rabbits have limited color vision compared to humans. They can primarily see shades of blue and green‚ and they perceive red as a shade of gray or brown. Do Rabbits See the World in Black and White? No‚ rabbits do not see the world in black and white. They have color vision‚ though it is limited compared to humans. It’s most sensitive to blue and green. Tips for Keeping Your Rabbit’s Vision Healthy Even though you can’t make your rabbit see life through “rose-colored glasses‚” you can still take care of their eye health by doing the following. Providing a Balanced Diet Give your bunny access to high-quality hay‚ fresh veggies‚ a tablespoon or two of rabbit pellets‚ and the occasional piece of fruit. This type of diet is perfectly suited to rabbits and contains essential nutrients like vitamins A‚ E‚ and C‚ which are important for maintaining good eye health. Scheduling Regular Veterinary Check-Ups Routine visits to a rabbit-savvy veterinarian are crucial for monitoring your rabbit’s overall health‚ including their eye health. Your vet can detect early signs of eye problems common in rabbits (such as eye inflammation or cloudy eyes) and provide appropriate treatment. Image Credit: DG FotoStock‚ Shutterstock Monitoring Your Rabbit’s Eye Appearance Pay attention to any changes in your rabbit’s eye appearance. If you notice excessive tearing‚ discharge‚ redness‚ cloudiness‚ squinting‚ or any other unusual signs related to their eyes‚ you should consult a veterinarian promptly. Early detection and treatment can prevent more severe eye issues. Bottom Line Rabbits do indeed perceive the world in color‚ albeit with limitations compared to humans. Their dichromatic vision—seeing the world in blue and green—is common to most herbivores‚ and it’s more than enough to help them navigate their surroundings‚ detect potential threats‚ and find food. That said‚ the latter is less important for our dear domestic bunnies! Sources Arvo Journals NCBI Animal Wised https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/energy-saving-lamps/l-3/1-light-electromagnetic-spectrum.htm https://www.discoverwildlife.com/animal-facts/animal-vision-how-do-animals-see https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14738502/ https://iovs.arvojournals.org/article.aspx?articleid=2184422 Featured Image Credit: UNIKYLUCKK‚ Shutterstock The post Can Rabbits See Colors? Vet Approved Facts &; Info appeared first on Pet Keen.
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1 y

Why Do Cats Go Limp When You Grab Their Scruff? Vet Reviewed Facts and FAQ
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Why Do Cats Go Limp When You Grab Their Scruff? Vet Reviewed Facts and FAQ

As a cat owner‚ you may have heard that grabbing your misbehaving cat by their scruff (the loose skin at the back of their neck) will cause them to go limp and make them easier to control. Maybe you’ve heard it’s a good way to pick them up or discipline them. But have you ever wondered why cats go limp when you grab their scruff? Well‚ not every cat does. The reasons why many cats go limp when you grab their scruff vary based on their age. Recent studies on cat behavior have taught us that “scruffing” is not the best way to control or restrain cats. In this article‚ you’ll learn why cats react to scruffing like they do and why it’s not a good way to grab them. We’ll also describe alternative methods of handling your cat that you or your vet can use if needed. Why We Used to Think Cats Go Limp When You Grab Their Scruff Traditionally‚ it was believed that cats go limp when grabbed by their scruff because the grip relaxes them. Mother cats carry their kittens by the scruff of the neck‚ so it was assumed that scruffing adult kitties triggers this memory and a feeling of relaxation. While it’s true that kittens relax as a reflex when carried by the scruff‚ we now know they lose this ability by the time they’re “teenagers.” Adult cats don’t have this instinct‚ so we need another explanation for why they go limp when you grab their scruff. Image Credit: Jaroslaw Kurek‚ Shutterstock Here’s the Real Reason Cats Go Limp When You Grab Their Scruff Outside of human interference‚ adult cats are only held by the scruff during mating or if they’re being attacked‚ which can be extremely stressful. Cat behaviorists now believe that grabbing a cat by the scruff may trigger a state of emotional shutdown. The cat stops moving because being gripped by the neck makes them feel helpless. Rather than feeling relaxed‚ adult cats are more likely to experience extreme stress and fear when grabbed by the scruff. Knowing this‚ it makes sense why some cats react aggressively when grabbed by the scruff. They’re probably experiencing a fight-or-flight response. Frequently Asked Questions Can I Pick Up My Cat by the Scruff? As we just learned‚ grabbing your cat by the scruff might make them go limp‚ but it’s not relaxing. Instead‚ you may be causing your cat stress and fear by this action. It could damage your bond and relationship with your cat‚ too. Picking up your cat by the scruff is unnecessary‚ and it is cruel‚ especially if you don’t support their body in the process. Lifting your cat by the scruff can be painful‚ frightening‚ and confusing to them. Instead‚ lift your cat under their chest while supporting their hind end at the same time. Image Credit: Gadzick‚ Shutterstock What Are Other Ways to Control My Cat Besides Grabbing Their Scruff? Now that we know scruffing your cat may be painful and stressful‚ what better ways to control and restrain them instead? In certain situations‚ for example‚ at the vet’s office‚ cats may be scared‚ nervous‚ or aggressive. To keep everyone safe‚ your cat must be controlled with as little stress as possible. Instead of scruffing‚ your cat may respond better to being held in a towel or blanket. Some nervous cats like to have their head covered. Another option is to use an e-collar to contain your cat’s head and allow the vet to examine the kitty safely. A great way to help ease your cat’s nerves when being handled is to use calming sprays on the towel you are using. Some veterinary practices can provide you with a towel or blanket that has been sprayed with a calming product to cover your pet carrier as you wait to be seen‚ but it will be even more effective if you use it before even leaving home. Anytime your cat becomes more stressed‚ their behavior can escalate. The goal is to calm your cat‚ even in a high-anxiety environment like the vet. Is It Ever Okay To Scruff A Cat? We know that scruffing a cat can be stressful for them‚ but there are two scenarios where it would be considered to be an appropriate option. If they are at risk of injuring themselves If they are at risk of injuring someone else In most situations‚ if your cat has become aggressive or unhandleable‚ the best thing to do is let them go. However‚ there may be certain times when this isn’t the safest option. For example‚ if a cat has a severe injury and must be restrained to prevent further damage‚ or if releasing them could put them at risk of being hit by a car or attacked by another animal. Essentially‚ the only time it is appropriate to grab a cat by the scruff is when the alternative is worse. Conclusion Adult cats who go limp when you grab their scruff are most likely experiencing an emotional and behavioral shutdown. Instead of being relaxing‚ grabbing a cat’s scruff can be stressful and frightening. Avoid holding or picking up your cat by the scruff. If your cat displays aggression or anxiety during medical procedures‚ talk to your vet about ways to make the experience less stressful without resorting to scruffing. Sources Now Turfts Vet Street Featured Image Credit: NONGASIMO‚ Shutterstock The post Why Do Cats Go Limp When You Grab Their Scruff? Vet Reviewed Facts and FAQ appeared first on Pet Keen.
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1 y

Labernard (St Bernard Lab Mixed Dog Breed) Info‚ Pictures‚ Care &; More
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Labernard (St Bernard Lab Mixed Dog Breed) Info‚ Pictures‚ Care &; More

Click Below to Skip Ahead Characteristics Temperament Intelligence Food &; Diet Exercise Health Training Grooming Fun Facts A Labernard is a Labrador Retriever mixed with a St. Bernard. Some people call this designer breed a Bernador‚ but that can get a little tricky since the term can also refer to a Labrador that’s mixed with a Bernese Mountain Dog. Since St. Bernards and Labrador Retrievers are both friendly‚ family-oriented dogs‚ you can expect this mix to be terrific with children‚ low-key‚ and ready to call you their new best friend. Breed Overview Height:21–30 inches Weight:55–180 pounds Lifespan:8–14 years Colors:Black‚ brown‚ cream‚ red‚ white‚ Suitable for:Families with small children‚ someone who has time to play Temperament:Loyal‚ loving‚ easy to train‚ friendly‚ gets along with other pets According to the American Kennel Club‚ the Labrador Retriever scored as the top dog in the United States from the 1980s until they were usurped by the French Bulldog in 2023. Like the Labrador‚ the St. Bernard is also very familiar with the family hearth. Often endearingly nicknamed “Gentle Giants‚” the Saint Bernard has worked as a calm‚ loyal “nanny” dog for hundreds of years. The traits that both breeds have that work well for family life are combined and strengthened in the Labernard‚ making them an excellent choice. Labernard Puppies View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐋𝐀 𝐏𝐎𝐎𝐂𝐇 (@marla_pooch_labernard) Mixed breeds are a bit trickier to define and find than well-established purebred dogs. Since Labernards are a mixed breed without a breed standard‚ you could go about acquiring them one of two ways: you can try to find a reputable breeder or adopt from the shelter. Public perception dictates whether you pay thousands of dollars for a “designer breed” like the ravenously popular Labradoodle‚ or simply pay an adoption fee for a “mutt” that you might find at the shelter. The honest truth is that you could pay more for a dog or adopt one for less and end up with a charming new friend either way. Rescuing from a shelter or other animal organization may take more time to find one‚ but in the end‚ it saves a life and prevents you from spending a fortune up front. If you do decide to go the breeder route‚ make sure both parents are certified by a respected breed organization‚ such as the American Kennel Club‚ and screened for genetic health conditions. You should also always be allowed to meet the parents. A breeder who refuses to let you see the puppy’s parents often runs a puppy mill or is trying to scam you. Image Credit: (L) Ben Hanson‚ Unsplash | (R) Aneta Jungerova‚ Shutterstock Temperament &; Intelligence of the Labernard The Labrador and the Saint Bernard are both known for their loyalty and their generally calm nature. They’re very friendly and aren’t known for being aggressive towards people or other animals. Although the exact temperament will vary from dog to dog‚ you can generally expect the Labernard to be very loyal‚ loving‚ and friendly as well. Both the Labrador and the Saint Bernard are working dogs as well‚ so they are very intelligent and easy to train. The Labernard should be highly trainable‚ but it’s important to note that you must provide plenty of mental stimulation to keep them from getting bored. However‚ the bottom line is that you won’t have to worry about a Labernard having a bad temperament‚ as these are overall amazing dogs thanks to their parent breeds. Are These Dogs Good for Families? The Labernard is the perfect candidate for a family lifestyle. Since they’ve inherited the athletic prowess of the Labrador‚ they’re likely to love to run‚ swim‚ and play dog sports. However‚ the laid-back nature of the Saint Bernard calms them down when it’s time for a nap or to chill indoors. While both parent breeds are known to be gentle and patient towards children‚ it’s always important to teach children appropriate boundaries to help everyone get along‚ such as not pulling on their tail or antagonizing them. Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets? View this post on Instagram A post shared by MaryAnn Lang (@mrs.lang_1208) With early socialization training‚ Labernards will likely get along with other pets. They don’t possess the high prey drive that makes some breeds dangerous for cats‚ such as Huskies. However‚ it’s best to acquaint them with other animals at a young age‚ and adopt a puppy or kitten as opposed to a fully grown animal to help them adjust. Things to Know When Owning a Labernard: Food &; Diet Requirements Weighing up to 180 pounds‚ a Labernard chows down on a ton of food every day. While it might be tempting to buy the least expensive food available in order to cut down on their enormous grocery bill‚ you should always talk to your vet about what your Labernard needs in order to eat a well-balanced diet. Like junk food for humans‚ cheaper dog food is often less nutritionally filling—which puts your pup at risk of developing health problems. Plus‚ they’ll need to eat more to stay full‚ which counteracts the cost-cutting aspect of a less expensive meal. Exactly how much your Labernard eats everyday depends on individual factors such as their health‚ weight‚ age‚ and activity level. On average‚ though‚ you can expect to feed them somewhere between 3 and 6 cups of dry food each day. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bruno the Labernard (@brunothelabernard) Exercise Labernards need between 30 minutes to an hour of daily exercise to stay healthy. Since they form close attachments to their people‚ they’ll likely enjoy a game of frisbee‚ ball‚ or volunteer to go with you on a walk or run. The Labrador in their veins may also compel them to jump in the pool to go for a swim. Training Training always takes patience and persistence. Thankfully‚ though‚ both the Saint Bernard and Labrador Retriever are eager to please. Some Labradors in particular may possess a curiously independent stubborn streak that can prove challenging to training sessions. If this is the case‚ breaking up training sessions into shorter lessons can help retain their attention. Be sure to give plenty of positive reinforcement‚ including training treats‚ and exercise them first so they’re not feeling overly hyper or distracted. Image Credit: Josie Grant‚ Shutterstock Grooming Both parent breeds have a double coat‚ but genetics determine whether your Labernard pup will inherit the thicker fur from the Saint Bernard or the slick short coat from the Labrador. Brush them several times a week and keep a lint roller handy‚ especially during shedding season in the spring and fall. Be sure to keep an eye on their ears‚ cleaning them as needed to prevent infections and drying them after getting wet. Health and Conditions Unfortunately‚ large breeds don’t tend to live as long as smaller breeds. Their extra weight puts stress on their joints‚ especially if they’re overweight‚ and their stomachs are more likely to bloat and twist due to their deeper chest cavities. All hope isn’t lost‚ however. This just means that it’s more important than ever to keep their weight in check and feed them balanced diets. Plus‚ Labernards have an advantage over their purebred parents because recent studies are finding that crossbreeds may live longer. You can expect your Labernard to live between 8–14 years‚ but hope for the upper end with consistent‚ loving care. For example‚ to reduce the risk of gastric torsion‚ you should feed them a couple of small meals instead of a giant feast‚ and wait at least an hour after meal time before letting them romp around. It turns out that what our parents told us about waiting to go swimming after eating can save your dog’s life. And of course‚ going to the vet at least once a year for a wellness visit can answer any questions you have about caring for your pet and catch any possible health problems early. Some breed-specific‚ minor issues that your Labernard may deal with include skin problems and ear infections. These aren’t major deals‚ but can still cause your pup some discomfort.  You can talk to your vet about ways to deal with your dog’s skin condition‚ such as eliminating certain foods or taking allergy medication if environmental allergies may be suspected. Make sure to clean their ears regularly to reduce the risk of ear infections. Minor Conditions Skin problems Ear infections Serious Conditions Gastric torsion Obesity Cancer Male vs Female A female Labernard will likely be much smaller than a male‚ weighing between 55–140 pounds as opposed to tipping the scale at 65–180 pounds. Other than size‚ the biggest differences boil down to individual personalities instead of gender. 3 Little-Known Facts About the Labernard 1. Labernards Make Excellent Service Dogs Labradors and Saint Bernards have saved countless lives and improved many more.  Both parent breeds are popularly trained as service dogs‚ so we can imagine that their crossbreed would make an excellent candidate as a guide dog or emotional support animal. 2. Labernards Love to Search Labradors were initially bred to retrieve waterfowl while Saint Bernards were skilled mountain rescue dogs that pulled people out of devastating avalanches in the Swiss Alps. These breeds bring their inquisitive natures to the Labernard‚ who probably would love nothing more than nosing through a treat puzzle or playing “treasure hunt” with you and their favorite toy. 3. Labernards Love to Get Wet Saint Bernards traditionally grew up in snowy weather while the Labrador dove in streams. Be forewarned: your Labernard may eagerly eye your pool during their backyard adventures‚ or veer towards a body of water when on a hike. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Spoon (@jlane_spoon) Final Thoughts Labernards are an amiable mix of positive traits such as sociability‚ calmness‚ and eagerness to please. Although they’d get along with anyone‚ they’re the best fit for families or someone with time to spend with them and a big living space where they won’t bump into the furniture. As a large or giant-sized dog‚ Labernards have more health concerns than small dogs‚ but can live 8–14 years with proper care. Sources https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/labrador-retriever/ https://www.purina.com/articles/dog/feeding/how-much-should-i-feed-my-dog https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/saint-bernard https://www.hepper.com/labernard/   Featured Image Credit: Connie Sinteur‚ Shutterstock The post Labernard (St Bernard Lab Mixed Dog Breed) Info‚ Pictures‚ Care &; More appeared first on Pet Keen.
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Can Hamsters Eat Papaya? Vet Approved Nutrition Facts
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Can Hamsters Eat Papaya? Vet Approved Nutrition Facts

Feeding your hamster various fresh vegetables and fruits is a great way to keep them mentally enriched while meeting their nutritional needs‚ but not all foods are appropriate for your pet. For those trying to make a list of which veggies and fruits they can safely feed their pet‚ feel free to add papaya. Papaya is an excellent option for your hamster‚ but like any fruit‚ it should only be fed in moderation. In this article‚ we will discuss the benefits and risks of papaya so you can decide if this fruit is a good addition to your pet’s meals. Papaya Overview Papayas are native to Mexico‚ and are a tender‚ fleshy fruit. Although it originated in Mexico‚ it also grows in the Caribbean and Florida. The fruit is packed with vitamin C; in fact‚ a medium-sized papaya contains over 224% of a human’s recommended daily intake. Although hamsters are able to synthesize their own Vitamin C‚ this is still a pretty fascinating factoid! Papaya is also a great source of vitamin A‚ vitamin E‚ calcium‚ potassium‚ B vitamins‚ alpha and beta-carotene‚ lutein‚ zeaxanthin‚ vitamin K‚ and lycopene. In one medium-sized papaya‚ you can find the following: 120 calories 2 grams of protein 5 grams of fiber 18 grams of sugar 30 grams of carbohydrates (including fiber and sugar) You will also find: magnesium copper folate pantothenic acid Image Credit: stevepb‚ Pixabay Benefits of Papaya Papayas are rich in vitamins and minerals. Another great benefit is that they are an excellent source of antioxidants. These antioxidants support your pet’s health by bolstering their immune system. They help remove toxins from your hamster’s body and help your pet to fight off diseases. The vitamin C content in a papaya can improve the health of your hamster’s skin and coat‚ and the fiber can support their digestive system. Overall‚ serving a small portion of papaya occasionally can be a great benefit to your hamster’s health. Risks of Papaya All fruits should be fed in careful moderation due to their sugar content‚ and papaya is no exception. Although not as high in sugar as some fruits‚ it is still more than a hamster should be eating regularly. Too much sugar in their diet could put your hamster at risk of developing diabetes‚ obesity‚ or other diet-related health conditions. Additionally‚ you should only feed the soft flesh of the fruit to your pet. The peel and seeds should be removed‚ as they can become choking hazards. Likewise‚ cut the flesh into small‚ bite-sized pieces so your hamster doesn’t choke on them. Can Hamsters Eat Dried Papaya? While dried papaya is not toxic for your hamster‚ it is not recommended. Dried fruits typically contain a much higher sugar concentration than fresh fruits‚ so feeding them to your pet can cause them to overload on sugar quickly. Therefore‚ it is best to stick to fresh fruits. Image Credit: gashgeron‚ Shutterstock Safe Fruits to Feed to Your Hamster While papaya is safe for your hamster to eat‚ it should not be the only fruit they are given. Rotating through a selection of safe fruits is a great way to keep your hamster’s diet varied and balanced. Some fruits that you can consider include: Acai Plums Raspberries Apples Figs Gooseberries Apricots Bananas Mangos Nectarines Blueberries Blackberries Boysenberries Strawberries Melons Kiwis Peaches Pears Pineapple Cantaloupe Cranberries Grapes Guava Lychees Safe Vegetables to Feed Your Hamster Fruits should only make up a small percentage of your pet’s meals. Instead‚ you should focus on providing vegetables as their fresh snacks. Here is a list of safe vegetables and herbs you can incorporate into your hamster’s diet: Cabbage Carrot Arugula Artichoke Broccoli Brussels sprouts Cauliflower Pumpkin Radicchio Romaine Lettuce Soybeans Spinach Squash Swiss Chard Tomato Zucchini Asparagus Celery Collards Corn Cucumber Fennel Mushroom Parsley Parsnip Peas Bell pepper Basil Beans Beet Bok Choy Dandelion Dill Kale Image Credit: stock_shot‚ Shutterstock Ensuring Your Hamster Receives a Healthy Diet Fresh vegetables are a great way to supplement your hamster’s diet‚ with fruits a healthy treat. However‚ the majority of your pet’s nutrition should come from a high quality‚ species-specific hamster pellet food. An ideal pellet diet will contain the following proportions: 35–40% carbohydrates 15–25% protein 5% crude fiber 4–5% fat Feed your hamster around â…›–â…“ cup of pellets each day. You can supplement your hamster’s diet with seeds‚ but seed-only diets should never be used. Hamsters that are fed only seeds often suffer from nutritional deficiencies. Seed diets are also high in fat and sugar‚ which can lead to health complications further down the road. While veggies and fruits are a great supplement for your hamster’s meals‚ the bulk of their diet should be pellets. Furthermore‚ your hamster should have constant access to fresh‚ clean water. A healthy diet is the first step to ensuring your hamster’s health and quality of life. For this reason‚ it is vital to reach out to your vet with any questions and collaborate on a diet plan for your hamster. Final Thoughts Papayas are a safe fruit for your hamster‚ but make sure to feed it in moderation. The high sugar content in papaya can make it an unhealthy fruit in excess‚ which is why it is so important to provide a varied diet for your pet. Do not delay reaching out to your vet if you have any concerns about your hamster’s diet or overall health. Several fruits can provide significant benefits for your pet‚ and the key is ensuring that they get a balanced taste of each. Sources Pet MD Medical News Today  Ontario Hamsters Featured Image Credit: 3centista‚ Pixabay The post Can Hamsters Eat Papaya? Vet Approved Nutrition Facts appeared first on Pet Keen.
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Can Hamsters Throw Up? Vet-Approved Facts &; Explanation
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Can Hamsters Throw Up? Vet-Approved Facts &; Explanation

Throwing up is not a pleasant experience for anyone‚ particularly because the sign indicates that something is wrong. If you’re a dog or cat owner‚ it can be especially scary when your pet vomits. But if you’re a hamster owner‚ you might have never seen your pet throw up and are wondering if they even can. Hamsters are physically incapable of throwing up‚ so if it looks like your hammy is vomiting‚ they are likely just emptying their cheek pouches. If you would like to learn more about why hamsters don’t vomit and how you can tell when they’re sick‚ read on! What Prevents Hamsters From Throwing Up? It’s not only hamsters that can’t vomit—it’s the case for nearly all rodents. A 2013 study1 examined three species from the three major groups of mammals in the Rodentia family: Mouse related: Rats‚ mice‚ voles‚ and beavers Squirrel related: Mountain beavers Ctenohystrica: Guinea pigs and nutria The researchers used chemicals that could cause vomiting‚ but the rodents in the study did not gag or vomit. The reasons for this inability to throw up are physical and neurological. It was discovered that rodents have fewer muscles in the diaphragm which sits underneath the lungs. Additionally‚ the stomach is not designed to move contents upward effectively. The researchers also found less nerve‚ shoulder‚ mouth‚ and throat activity‚ which are all normally linked with throwing up. This all means that both the bodies and brains of rodents make it physically impossible for them to vomit. Image Credit: Hintau Aliaksei‚ Shutterstock Why Can’t Rodents Vomit? No one knows exactly why rodents are designed not to vomit‚ but it’s believed that the ability to vomit was replaced with different defense mechanisms. For example‚ many rodents eat clay when sick. A 2009 study showed that sick rats that ate clay actually had a better recovery as they ate more and lost less weight. Why Does Your Hamster Sometimes Look Like They Are Vomiting? If you’re new to hamster ownership‚ it might be a little disconcerting to see what looks like piles of vomit come out of their mouths. But this is just your hammy pushing stored food out of their cheek pouches. The name “hamster” comes from the German word‚ “hamstern‚” which translates to “hoard‚” and this is exactly what hamsters do. Their elastic cheek pouches stretch to store large amounts of food. So‚ hamsters stuff them full of food to be transported to their abode where they can eat their food in safety. Domestic hamsters haven’t lost this instinct even though it isn’t technically necessary. You’ll notice your hamster stuffing their cheeks full of the food that you’ve provided‚ only to carry it around for a bit and then push it all out in a different location in their habitat. It does look like they are throwing up sometimes‚ but it’s perfectly natural behavior. Image Credit: dep377‚ Pixabay What Should You Not Feed Your Hamster? While hamsters are typically good at figuring out what they should and shouldn’t eat‚ you should still know what you shouldn’t feed your pet. Since they can’t throw something up that might make them unwell‚ you must ensure they don’t have access to anything harmful. The following are harmful foods that you shouldn’t feed your hamster: Garlic Onions Raw kidney beans Apple seeds‚ cores and skin Citrus fruits Non-food plants Tomato leaves or unripe tomatoes Candy or anything sugary Chocolate Human snacks‚ such as pretzels and chips Beyond these‚ there are a few foods that are fine for hamsters in small amounts occasionally‚ but must prepared in a specific way: Celery in small chunks is fine‚ but remove any strings that can cause choking. Fruits and vegetables must be washed. All foods must be plain—nothing with seasonings or spices. Don’t add fats or oils to any foods offered. One unsalted peanut a week is okay. What Can Make Hamsters Choke? Keep your hamster safe by moving potential choking hazards out of reach. For example‚ certain types of bedding can cause choking. Cotton is one of the worst culprits because it can get stuck in their teeth‚ is difficult to chew and swallow‚ and is known to be deadly for hamsters. Avoid bedding floss or anything else made with cotton. Electrical cords are double the danger—there’s the risk of electrocution and the possibility of choking. Before you let your hamster out to explore‚ you’ll need to hamster-proof the area. Move all cords out of your hamster’s reach‚ as well as anything small‚ such as pellets‚ toys‚ marbles‚ or whatever else they could potentially swallow. Image Credit: KulthiwatS‚ Shutterstock How Can You Tell If Your Hamster Is Sick? Your hamster will display several signs when they have ingested something that they shouldn’t have. These can include: Diarrhea: Normally Hamster poop is solid so if it looks sloppy or watery your hamster has diarrhea. Loss of appetite: Hamsters have a good appetite‚ so if you observe your hamster not eating as much as usual‚ it might be a sign that they aren’t feeling good. Lethargy:When not sleeping‚ hamsters are busy little pets‚ so if you notice that your hammy sleeping more than usual‚ hiding‚ and generally not being alert‚ something might be wrong. Dull coat:Hamsters are fastidious groomers‚ and if you notice that your hamster’s coat is looking dull and not that clean‚ this can indicate that they are sick. Excessive thirst:Toxic material in the system can affect the liver and kidneys‚ so this can lead to a very thirsty hamster. Rapid breathing:If your hamster is breathing faster than usual or panting‚ they might be experiencing heart or respiratory issues. If your hamster exhibits any of these signs‚ you must bring them to your veterinarian or closest emergency animal hospital. Once a hamster shows signs of distress‚ they can quickly deteriorate. Conclusion Since hamsters are incapable of throwing up‚ you’ll need to keep anything that they can choke on or that is toxic for them out of reach. You might also be interested to know that hamsters (and all rodents) cannot burp‚ but they do fart! You should always pay attention to your hamster and their behavior‚ particularly if they aren’t acting like their usual selves. Knowing that they can’t vomit makes feeding them the right food even more important‚ so you can ensure to keep your hammy healthy and safe. Sources https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2680461/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/phytohaemagglutinin Featured Image Credit: Victor FlowerFly‚ Shutterstock The post Can Hamsters Throw Up? Vet-Approved Facts &; Explanation appeared first on Pet Keen.
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How to Get Gum Out of Dog Hair: 3 Vet-Approved Methods
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How to Get Gum Out of Dog Hair: 3 Vet-Approved Methods

Click to Skip Ahead Before You Begin The Removal Methods Removing Gum From Your Pup’s Paws Things to Avoid We’ve all had it happen at least once—getting chewing gum stuck in our hair. And we all know what a pain it is to try and remove gum from hair; to say it’s a challenge is an understatement! But what happens if your dog somehow manages to get gum stuck in their hair? How much more difficult must getting gum out of dog hair be? And how do you get gum out of dog hair anyway? If your dog has gotten gum stuck in his or her hair‚ you can get it out with one of these three simple methods. Take a look below at our step-by-step guide so you can get your dog back to being gum-free! Note: Be careful not to let your dog ingest any gum when removing it. Many forms of chewing gum contain xylitol‚ an artificial sweetener which is highly toxic to dogs. Before You Begin: Gather Supplies Before you begin the process of removing the gum from your pet’s hair‚ you need to choose the method you want to use and then gather everything you need for that method. Depending on which way you decide to get the gum out of your dog’s hair‚ you’ll need: Ice cubes Peanut butter (xylitol free) Olive oil Butter Mayonnaise Comb Pet clippers Dishwashing soap Dog shampoo Towels Image Credit: Onderwijsgek‚ Wikimedia Commons The 3 Methods for Removing Gum From Your Dog’s Hair Here are three methods for getting gum out of your dog’s hair and all the steps to follow for each method! If you try one and it fails‚ move on to the next one. Contact your veterinarian for assistance if you are unable to remove the gum. 1. The Ice Cube Method First‚ we have the ice cube method. Grab an ice cube. Hold the ice cube on the gum for 3–5 minutes; this step is to get the gum to harden. Hardened gum is much easier to get out of your dog’s hair than soft gum! Once the gum has hardened‚ try to pull it out of your dog’s hair—gently!—by breaking off pieces of it. If breaking off pieces and removing them by hand isn’t working‚ or it is causing your dog discomfort‚ you can move on to using clippers as described below. Once the gum is removed‚ give your dog a bath to ensure no tiny bits of gum remain. We recommend Hepper’s Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo‚ as it’s extremely soothing. 2. The Oil-Based Method You’re probably familiar with this method‚ as it’s the most common method of removing gum from kids’ hair. Grab an oil-based product—either peanut butter (xylitol free)‚ olive oil‚ butter‚ or mayo. Work whichever product you choose into the hair with your fingers near the gum. Let the oil-based substance sit for three or more minutes. Stay with your dog while waiting to avoid your pet eating the substance (or gum) out of their fur. Once the 3 minutes have passed‚ it’s time to break out the comb. Comb the gum out‚ starting from above the gum and combing down. In some cases an old toothbrush can also be useful to remove the gum. If the gum doesn’t come out the first time‚ apply the oil-based product and comb 2–3 more times. If the gum refuses to budge after that‚ you’ll need to move on to the next method. If this method does get the gum out‚ you’ll need to give your pup a bath to eliminate the oiliness and any leftover bits of gum. Image Credit: HomeMaker‚ Pixabay 3. The Fur Cutting Method This is probably the simplest method of getting gum out of dog hair. Make sure your dog’s fur is dry‚ as it’s less difficult to cut dry hair than wet. Hold your dog in place (or grab a friend that can gently hold onto them while you cut). Place your pet clippers above where the gum is located. Move the pet clippers in a downward motion to trim the hair surrounding the gum. If the gum isn’t cut out on the first pass‚ repeat as necessary until the gum is gone. If you aren’t comfortable trimming your dog’s fur‚ then take them to the groomer or the vet instead so they can trim the fur and get the gum out. Then bathe your pet once the gum is removed! Removing Gum From Your Pup’s Paws The skin on your dog’s paws is sensitive and it can be more difficult to get to the gum. Removing gum from the paws may need a slightly different approach‚ although all the above methods can also be used. First‚ mix mild dishwashing soap with warm water. Next‚ soak a towel or cloth in the soapy water. Dab your pet’s paw with the wet towel around the affected area to loosen the gum from the hair and skin. Once your pup’s paw is wet enough‚ see if the gum can be removed. If the gum isn’t coming out‚ wipe some olive oil on the area. Use the rag in a sideways motion to try and loosen the gum‚ so it’ll come out. If the soapy water and olive oil don’t take care of the gum‚ take your pet to the vet so they can get it out. If this process works‚ wash your dog’s paw to remove the soap and olive oil. Things to Avoid You should avoid a couple of things when trying to get gum out of your dog’s hair. Here’s what they are: Don’t try to wash chewing gum out! Leaving the gum as is‚ without trying one of the methods above‚ and bathing your pet could make the gum soften and spread‚ getting it into even more of your dog’s fur. Don’t attempt to comb or brush the gum out without applying something oily first. Doing this is another way to spread gum around. Image Credit: 135pixels‚ Shutterstock Conclusion Getting gum out of your dog’s hair can be challenging‚ but by using one of these methods‚ you’ll hopefully have it out sooner rather than later. Just follow the steps for whichever method you choose to get the best results. And though it isn’t always possible‚ try to keep your dog away from chewed gum to avoid them getting it stuck in their fur again! See Also: 7 Benefits of Regular Dog Grooming Featured Image Credit: Hannah Tu‚ Unsplash The post How to Get Gum Out of Dog Hair: 3 Vet-Approved Methods appeared first on Pet Keen.
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1 y

The hidden costs of going green: Part 1
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The hidden costs of going green: Part 1

There is a need to minimize the negative impact we have on our planet. However‚ our adoption of recent green technologies in the pursuit of minimizing environmental damage has already led to unforeseen and all-too-unmentioned ecological destruction. Is this just the price we have to pay? Note: This article originally appeared in the print issue of Return. From the position of the archaeologist‚ technology is a neutral term. From flint hand-axes to sickles‚ antler harpoons to fish traps‚ the earliest forms of technology leverage efficiency and capability at the interface between the human and the rest of the world. There is nothing unnatural about this – crows‚ otters‚ monkeys‚ even crocodiles make use of manipulated objects to exploit their dietary niche. Where there are concerns about how modern technology functions‚ they shouldn’t be framed as a dichotomy between “good” and “bad” but rather aimed at the specific problems created. Too often what counts for academia today will position any discussion of technology in a framework of “neoliberalism” and “systems thinking.” The question before us is: Do we tear up a unique and important ocean ecosystem in order to fuel the Green Revolution? Some will talk of the Anthropocene‚ barely suppressing their glee at the control such definitions bring. What I want to do here is outline some concrete and non-systemic threats that specific technologies pose. It is my contention that only through approaching risks to the natural world in this way will we actually retain the ability to tackle them. Beyond the nebulous outlines of international agreements and porous commitments lies the bulwark of the nation-state and its capacities. Let us not be shy in demanding it makes use of them. Mining the sea floor: Polymetallic nodules The new Green Revolution and its consequences are rolling like a tidal wave across the world. One of its most insidious children is the “net-zero” mining industry. To be absolutely clear‚ the new eco-friendly techno-complex of electric cars‚ wind- and solar-generated energy‚ and the vast new infrastructure of batteries needed to support these relies precariously on this industry’s ability to extract unprecedented amounts of raw minerals. According to the World Bank’s 2020 report Minerals for Climate Action‚ the increase in mineral production includes a staggering 488% increase in demand for lithium‚ 460% for cobalt‚ 231% for indium‚ and a 189% increase for vanadium. The projections for the U.K. to meet its target for electric cars would require the world’s current output of neodymium‚ almost twice the world’s production of cobalt‚ and three-quarters of the global lithium production. With two of the main countries for nickel‚ cobalt‚ manganese‚ and copper being China and the Democratic Republic of Congo‚ the race has started to find alternative mining venues. European nickel mines are one option‚ but by far the most enticing is the prospect of undersea mining. Back in the deepest past‚ earth’s seawater began to slowly precipitate heavy metals. Manganese and iron oxyhydroxides began to scavenge cations of cobalt‚ copper‚ and nickel‚ freed by the actions of undersea hydrothermal vents and the imperceptible metabolism of microorganisms‚ and they settled over millions of years into polymetallic nodules. But why is this important? These nodules lie scattered all over the sea floor‚ most no larger than a duck’s egg‚ a gift from Mother Nature to a civilization desperate for metals. The Clipperton Fracture Zone‚ 4.5 million square kilometers rich in manganese nodules‚ is just one prime example of the embarrassment of riches lying untapped and unused. The world has just realized that these treasure troves now need to be harvested‚ and companies are applying for exploratory licenses everywhere from Nauru to Mexico. Specialized sea craft with submarine vehicles now pioneer the extraction of nodules‚ suctioning‚ grinding‚ harvesting‚ and crushing the metals before sending them up to the surface. “What’s the problem?” I hear you ask. “Surely we need this?” The problem is that these nodules are not sterile globules of free resources‚ like some computer-game world. They are in fact the underpinning keystone in a complex food web that we barely glimpse through the handful of studies that have focused on them. What we do know is this: The nodules themselves are coated with living beings‚ and one in particular‚ the stalked glass sponge‚ is considered a key structural species. The trophic webs that exist in these deep abyssal zones rely on the nodules as the only physical structural support to anchor onto‚ the soft sediment being incapable of supporting these species. The cascading effects of removing the nodules flow upward to the sediment and filter feeders‚ the scavengers‚ omnivores‚ and carnivores. Equally as devastating are the fine sediment plumes created by the harvesters and the waste dumping after extraction. These clouds smother species to death and choke up life on the precarious reefs. Added to these known factors are the unknown risks. A 2016 study of the Clipperton Fracture Zone found that half of all the collected species were new to science. More dangerous (and ironic) is the possibility that deposits of frozen methane‚ known as methane clathrates‚ could be accidentally disturbed‚ potentially releasing unknown quantities of natural gas into the ocean and the atmosphere. The question before us is: Do we tear up a unique and important ocean ecosystem in order to fuel the Green Revolution? The cost-benefit analysis here should look at what this revolution actually offers and whether it is desirable. It seems unlikely that all the ocean’s metals are going to remain unused‚ and no amount of international pressure will stop a country like China from exploiting its own shoreline. But we needn’t all rush onward with the charge for an electric battery-powered world. There are alternatives. Stripping the dunes: Sand extraction Tim Graham via Getty Images On a list of conversational topics bound to cure insomnia‚ sand has to be near the top. Yet this basic and seemingly ubiquitous material is rapidly becoming a coveted resource. How is this possible? Sand is required for a number of fundamental industries‚ including construction‚ road building‚ electronics‚ plastics‚ cosmetics‚ detergents‚ and water filtration. Regrettably‚ it is also essential for the production of solar panels‚ something that gets very little mention. Due to the nature of the grains‚ desert sand is practically worthless‚ being too fine to bind together. This makes rivers‚ lakes‚ and any accessible ocean the major targets for sand extraction and mining. On the face of it‚ this sounds reasonable. However‚ we have two huge problems here — firstly‚ the amount of available sand in the world is shrinking faster than it can be replenished; secondly‚ the damage caused to the environment‚ ecology‚ and human habitation around the mined areas. Sand extraction accounts for 85% of all mineral production globally by weight. Roughly 32 to 50 billion tons of sand are used annually‚ which‚ according to some models‚ will lead to demand outstripping supply before the century is out. Virtually every country imports sand‚ with the leading exporters‚ such as China and the United States‚ shipping 300 million tons in 2019. These figures are notoriously unreliable‚ however‚ since‚ as we’ll see later on‚ the illegal mining of sand is likely the largest supplier. As an example‚ between 2006 and 2016‚ Singapore imported 80 million tons of sand from Cambodia‚ but only 4% of that was through legal export channels. Since Singapore desperately needs sand for land reclamation and skyscraper building‚ the nearby countries have scoured billions of tons of sand for illegal export‚ so much so that Indonesia has physically lost over 20 islands and another 80 are at risk. Ecologically‚ sand mining at scale presents a number of problems: It lowers water tables‚ depletes wells‚ physically destroys habitats‚ alters the shape and flow of rivers‚ disrupts food webs‚ creates riverbank instability‚ collapses bridges‚ changes the velocity of the river flow‚ which can cause flooding and damage to property‚ and leaches salt into agricultural land. Dune removal can cause flooding‚ dust plumes can increase airborne radioactivity and damage health‚ and so on. The standard method for sand extraction is to dredge‚ at different scales and in a number of different ways. Ranging from Nigerians physically wading into the surf and carrying baskets of sand away on their heads and Tamil truck drivers parking on tourist beaches and filling up using spades to huge Chinese commercial ships complete with conveyor belts and barges‚ the nature of the work depends on the country and its legality. At the risk of repeating previous talking points‚ sand mining clearly has an immediate and long-term impact on the ecology of the region. The physical removal of beaches‚ dunes‚ sandbanks‚ and riverbeds negates the ability of dependent wildlife and flora to survive‚ but another consequence is the spillover into violence in the human world. Illegal sand mining seems like one of those minor headline topics‚ but the scale of the organization goes far beyond what most people understand. Unauthorized sand extraction is the largest criminal enterprise in India‚ in particular the southern state of Tamil Nadu. In China‚ the Yangtze River has been a target for illegal extraction for decades‚ since the state banned mining in 2000. In 2019 alone police seized over 300 vessels carrying approximately 100 million cubic feet of sand. Yet the theft continues‚ in part due to sophisticated GPS spoofing‚ which prevents authorities from accurately monitoring ship movement in real time‚ resulting in lethal collisions. Thane Creek‚ the river inlet from the Arabian Sea to Mumbai‚ swarms with hundreds of small wooden boats‚ all illegally scooping up sand from the riverbed by hand. The divers used to make the plunge down to 20 feet. A few years later they are at their physical limits of 40 feet. Soon the riverbed will simply disappear. Like many similar illegal mines and dredge sites in India‚ they are run by mafias with the power to buy off local officials and murder journalists and protesters. On the larger geopolitical level‚ the tensions between Singapore and Indonesia/Malaysia have reached the point where the Indonesian navy has been deployed to arrest illegal sand miners in its territory.
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Gamers Realm
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The best DayZ servers 2024
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The best DayZ servers 2024

What are the best DayZ servers to join in 2024? We’ve scoured the internet looking for the top DayZ servers and server clusters to cater to all experiences. Whether you’re looking for some intense PvP‚ a relaxed PvE sandbox‚ a modded server that offers something fresh‚ or even a place to roleplay like DayZ Underground‚ where a creative community has lived out years’ worth of stories‚ creating authentic in-universe lore. We’ll also talk about what awaits you on the official servers. Dean Hall‚ perhaps the leading figure in the survival game sandbox revolution of the early 2010s‚ first created the zombie game as a mod within ARMA 2‚ then joined Bohemia Interactive to work on a standalone release. While Hall has since moved on‚ Bohemia has continued to update the game‚ and it has come a long way from its first form as a zombie-survival sim. Dozens of additional systems have almost turned it into a life sim‚ and endless mod-ability means that if you can’t do something in the vanilla release‚ you can probably do it on a modded server somewhere. But all this flexibility has produced a varied range of online experiences‚ and navigating that landscape can be confusing. That’s where we come in. Read on for our list of some of the best and most populated official and community servers‚ and a breakdown of exactly what they offer to the discerning DayZ player. Continue reading The best DayZ servers 2024 MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Does DayZ have crossplay?‚ DayZ system requirements‚ DayZ base building tips
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