Most dog owners know that their pets cannot eat grapes or raisins‚ but the reason why isn’t as commonly discussed. Are dogs allergic to them‚ or do they contain some element that causes the toxicity? No‚ dogs are not allergic to grapes; however‚ it is not clear why they’re toxic. Read on to learn more about grape toxicity‚ including what signs to watch for‚ and what to do if you suspect your pup has gotten into your grape stash. Are Dogs Allergic to Grapes? As mentioned in our introduction‚ dogs are not allergic to grapes‚ but that doesn’t mean they are something you should allow your pup to eat. While they will not cause an allergic reaction‚ ingesting grapes can be life-threatening‚ and is considered a medical emergency‚ even in small amounts. Why Are Grapes So Dangerous? It’s not currently known why grapes are toxic for dogs. Some suggest the toxicity could be due to a mycotoxin (a fungal byproduct) or a salicylate (aspirin-like) drug naturally found in the fruit. However‚ there is mounting evidence regarding tartaric acid1 in grapes being responsible for the kidney damage dogs experience after eating the fruit. This discovery occurred after post mortem examinations were performed on dogs exposed to the cream of tartar and tamarinds. The renal lesions in these dogs were similar to those in post-mortem examinations of the dog kidneys after exposure to grapes or raisins. While this study is promising‚ at the time of writing‚ no one specific toxic agent has been identified. What Kind of Grapes Are Toxic to Dogs? Poisoning has occurred in dogs that have ingested any type of grape‚ including seedless‚ seeded‚ commercial‚ homegrown‚ red‚ green‚ organic‚ non-organic‚ and even grape pressings from winemaking. Even foods containing grapes and raisins‚ such as granola mixes or baked goods‚ are all potential sources of poisoning. Some sources suggest that grape jellies and juices are okay‚ but the Pet Poison Hotline says they may cause toxicity. We always prefer to err on the side of caution‚ so we’re siding with the professionals at the poison hotline on this one. No type of grape is safe for consumption for dogs.  Image Credit: Pexels‚ Pixabay What Are the Signs of Grape Ingestion? The signs of grape toxicity include: Vomiting Diarrhea Weakness Poor appetite Increased thirst Abdominal pain BUT – your dog may show no immediate signs of toxicity. The kidneys are pretty impressive‚ and can function normally with up to 75% damage. So what does this mean for your grape-eating dog? Eating grapes (or even one grape) may cause a significant amount of damage to your dog’s kidney‚ but if more than 25% of the kidneys are healthy‚ they will not show signs of the damage. It might be months‚ even years later that something else tips them over into less than 25% function. This often gives people the false sense that their dog ate grapes with no toxic effects. The other tricky factor is that it seems that not all dogs are susceptible to grape toxicity‚ but at present‚ there is no way to tell the difference between unaffected dogs and those that have suffered subclinical damage. What Do I Do If My Dog Ate Grapes? If you suspect your dog has eaten a grape (yes‚ even eating a single grape can be life-threatening)‚ go to the vet as soon as possible. Immediate treatment is critical as acute kidney failure can occur in as little as 48 hours. The first step will usually be to induce vomiting‚ but you should also never try to make your dog vomit at home unless under the direction of your vet. Even if your dog successfully brings up the offensive fruit‚ your vet may recommend giving them charcoal to reduce absorption from the intestinal tract‚ and intravenous fluids to dilute any effects on the kidneys. Even if your dog seems perfectly fine‚ the cost of 24 hours in hospital is worth it if it keeps your beloved pet safe. Image Credit: Goran Horvat‚ Pixabay Final Thoughts Dogs are not allergic to grapes; a component inside the fruit causes toxicity. Experts have pinpointed several potential causes‚ but there is still research to be done. Grapes can cause kidney failure within 48 hours of ingestion‚ and even eating a single piece can be life-threatening‚ so keep them far away from your canine pals. Sources https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/grapes https://www.aspcapro.org/resource/toxic-component-grapes-and-raisins-identified https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/why-dogs-cant-eat-grapes https://vcacanada.com/know-your-pet/grape-raisin-and-currant-poisoning-in-dogs   Featured Image Credit: NickyPe‚ Pixabay The post Are Dogs Allergic to Grapes? Vet Approved Allergy Facts appeared first on Pet Keen.

Samoyeds are medium-sized dogs with big white coats and a friendly‚ playful attitude. The breed was first developed in Siberia to pull sleds‚ herd reindeer and livestock‚ and hunt. Their coats protect them from the harsh cold climate and while they are considered medium breeds‚ they have a big requirement for exercise and stimulation. You need to provide an hour of good exercise a day‚ at least. Ideally‚ you should provide 2 hours of exercise‚ combining leashed walks with more intensive forms of exercise. The breed particularly excels in sledding and other pulling events but will take to most canine sports. It will also enjoy playing with adults and older children‚ although its thick coat is very grabbable which makes it a target for toddlers and small children.  The thickness of its coat means that very early morning or evening exercise is best‚ when temperatures are cooler. About Samoyeds The Samoyed is classed as a working breed‚ having first been bred by Siberian tribespeople called the Samoyede. The nomadic people used the dog to pull sleds‚ herd livestock‚ and hunt. The dogs would sleep in tents with the Samoyede and were essentially treated as members of the family. The breed was then discovered by European explorers in the 19th Century and made their way back to England. After becoming a popular breed with English nobility‚ word of their worth spread through the rest of Europe before eventually making their way to the US. Its history as a working dog means that the Samoyed is intelligent. A skilled handler should find it relatively easy to train the dog to a basic standard‚ but they aren’t going to be competitors in obedience training events! They love to run and pull‚ so events like CaniCross can be excellent for them. If its owners can provide enough exercise and mental stimulation for their dog‚ the Samoyed makes a great family pet. Samoyeds were raised to be members of their owners’ families. They slept in close quarters with their humans in Siberia‚ and usually get along with all family members as pets. The breed is easy-going and outgoing‚ which means that it will also usually get along with strangers while providing a fun companion for older children who treat the dog with respect. Its size means the Sammie can live in medium sized to larger houses but they are quite vocal dogs‚ so an apartment is likely not appropriate. They are best suited to rural living. Samoyed Care Requirements The Sammie does have quite high care requirements. That thick double coat needs plenty of brushing and the dog’s desire to be outside‚ and its love of running and playing means that it can be a full-time job to keep the coat looking good. Owners also need to provide an absolute minimum of one hour of exercise a day‚ with two hours being considered an ideal amount of daily exercise. Image Credit: Charlotte Lehman‚ Shutterstock Best Forms of Exercise for Samoyeds As well as providing the required amount of exercise each day‚ it is a good idea to offer Samoyeds a variety of different tasks and types of exercise. It helps provide mental stimulation and it also keeps things interesting for you and the rest of your family. Some options include: 1. Long Walks The Samoyed ideally needs around 2 hours of exercise a day‚ including its walks. This means a quick walk around the block isn’t going to do much except get a Sammie excited for more. Consider hour-long walks—the Samoyed can handle a brisk walking pace and will benefit from it. You can also take them out on your weekly or daily hikes‚ and they will do well uphill or on the flat. But remember that the Samoyed is bred for cold climates and may struggle in the heat. 2. Playtime Half an hour of chase or fetch is a great way to burn off your dog’s energy and it will build a bond between you. You can also use this playtime as a great opportunity to enhance your training efforts by incorporating some basic commands into the game and working on recall in your yard.  Hiding treats around the garden can be a fun way to spend some time.  Your Sammie will enjoy sniffing the treats out and gobbling them down. 3. Sledding One of the Samoyed’s primary tasks‚ as part of the Samoyede tribe‚ was to pull sleds laden with people and goods. If you live in a cold climate and there are regular sledding events near you‚ this is a great way to exercise your furry friend. Alternatively‚ get your own sledding equipment and turn it into an activity you can enjoy whenever you like. 4. Urban Mushing Urban mushing‚ also called snowless sledding or dry sledding‚ is similar to sledding except the sled has wheels or tracks and is run on dry ground. Its similarity to sledding means that a Sammie is well suited to this sport‚ and it presents an excellent opportunity for suitable exercise. 5. Running If you’re a regular runner‚ you can teach your Samoyed to run with you. Check local laws regarding the use of belt leashes and harnesses‚ because it may not be allowed in certain areas‚ but you can harness a Sammie and have them run alongside you. You can also take part in organized “CaniCross” events.  Sports like CaniCross can be an excellent way to exercise both you and your dog and Samoyeds can be great at it. However‚ always bear in mind that this is only suitable in a cool climate as Samoyeds can overheat easily. Image Credit: Sbolotova‚ Shutterstock The 3 Dog Breeds That Need Less Exercise Than a Samoyed Samoyeds do need a lot of exercise. Without adequate physical and mental stimulation‚ they can become destructive and may show other unwanted behaviors. If you don’t have the time to provide 1–2 hours of good exercise every day‚ you may want to consider a dog that needs less exercise. 1. Greyhound Image Credit: Alexandra Morrison Photo‚ Shutterstock The Greyhound is renowned for its running abilities‚ but‚ specifically‚ for its intense bursts of incredible speed. The Greyhound is known as the world’s fastest couch potato because while it can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour‚ it isn’t known for its stamina and after a burst of running‚ it will be happily sprawled out on the sofa with its owners. However‚ a Greyhound may not be suitable if you own cats‚ or if you want a dog you can let off its leash because it has a high prey drive and is very difficult to catch. 2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Image Credit: Svetlanistaya‚ Shutterstock The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small spaniel breed that needs less exercise than most other spaniel breeds. An hour’s exercise a day should be more than enough to meet this little breed’s requirements‚ and as well as its modest exercise requirements‚ it is a friendly and loving little dog that will happily spend time with its owners and usually gets along with other dogs and even cats. 3. Mastiff Image Credit: Ricantimages‚ Shutterstock At the other end of the exercise chart from the Samoyed is the Mastiff. It has minimal daily exercise requirements‚ typically being happy with 30 to 60 minutes of slow ambling. The Mastiff is affectionate with family but aloof around strangers. It needs a lot of socializing as a young pup‚ and the size of the breed means that the Mastiff has a short lifespan of around 11 or 12 years. Do Samoyeds Need a Lot of Grooming? Samoyeds have a thick‚ double coat‚ that is designed to protect them from the cold. The breed benefits from daily brushing‚ which will help remove dead hairs and prevent knots and matting. This‚ combined with the high exercise requirements of the breed‚ means that it does take a lot of daily care. Do Samoyeds Suffer Separation Anxiety? Sammies were bred to be around humans. They would sleep in the same tent as their families and spend most of the day working with their handlers. As such‚ while they are working dogs‚ Samoyeds need human interaction‚ and they can suffer separation anxiety if left alone for too long. If you do need to leave your dog for long periods‚ consider getting a family member or friend to visit‚ or pay a dog walker to come and exercise them. Always ensure that your Samoyed has had plenty of exercise and is provided with mental stimulation while you’re out. Is the Samoyed a Good Family Dog? The Samoyed makes an excellent family dog that will get along with all family members. It will be especially close to those that provide exercise and are willing to play‚ as well as those that take the lead in training. Image Credit: yurakrasil‚ Shutterstock Conclusion Recognizable for its fluffy white coat‚ the Samoyed is a working dog breed that makes a great family pet because it is affectionate‚ loving‚ and fun. However‚ it does have some high care requirements. That luscious coat needs daily brushing to ensure it doesn’t get knotted or messy‚ and the Samoyed ideally needs 2 hours of exercise each day‚ including some form of intensive exercise beyond casual strolls around the block. They can take up a lot of your time but if you have the time and are an activity-loving family‚ they are a good choice of family pet. Sources https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/large-dogs/samoyed https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/samoyed/ https://www.purina.co.uk/find-a-pet/dog-breeds/samoyed https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/samoyed   Featured Image Credit: xxxnik‚ Pixabay The post How Much Exercise Do Samoyeds Need? Vet Approved Advice appeared first on Pet Keen.

Dealing with fleas and trying to eradicate them from your pet and from your home can be frustrating and time consuming. You have to deal with flea baths‚ collars‚ and whatever else you need to do the job. So‚ using a natural remedy to do the job safely would be ideal‚ right? Would rosemary work on fleas? The answer to that is no. While rosemary can act as a deterrent to fleas‚ it will not remove them from your pet or home. Let’s look at how rosemary can help‚ along with the overall best ways to eliminate fleas when they’ve invaded your life. Can Rosemary Kill Fleas? Rosemary has many excellent benefits‚ from adding a depth of flavor to your cooking to having antiviral‚ antibacterial‚ and antifungal properties. When it comes to fleas‚ rosemary can act as a repellent‚ so it does have that advantage‚ but there is no evidence that it will remove fleas from your pet or home. When you’re trying to get rid of fleas‚ you also need to get rid of the eggs and larvae‚ and rosemary just isn’t capable of doing this. Technically‚ if you sprinkled your pet with rosemary‚ the fleas would probably vacate‚ but this doesn’t change the fact that you would then have to sprinkle rosemary all over your home‚ every day‚ for about 3 months! Image Credit: KanphotoSS‚ Shutterstock What Is the Best Method to Get Rid of Fleas? Before attempting to eradicate fleas‚ you must first understand the flea life cycle. Flea Life Cycle Adult fleas attach themselves to a host‚ and the female lays eggs after having a blood meal. In fact‚ blood is a necessity for them to reproduce. Fleas can lay 40 to 50 eggs every single day! The eggs fall off your pet and onto any surface that your pet spends time on‚ like bedding‚ furniture‚ and carpet. From here‚ the eggs hatch into larvae‚ and eventually pupae that form cocoons that lie dormant until the right conditions lead to the hatching of the adult fleas. These conditions are heat‚ vibration‚ light‚ and exhaled carbon dioxide‚ and the cocoons can lie dormant for many months until the environment is just right. As you can see‚ getting rid of fleas isn’t a quick and easy fix. Eradicating Fleas From Your Pet If your pet has fleas‚ now would be the time to schedule a visit with your vet. They can recommend a course of action‚ including safe treatments to use on your pets and around the home. If you’re wanting to get a head start at home‚ you can use a flea comb and a bowl of hot‚ soapy water. Dip the comb in the water‚ comb your pet‚ dip the comb in the water‚ and repeat! The water will drown the fleas‚ and the soap stops them from being able to jump out of the water. Then‚ give your pet a bath with vet-approved flea shampoo. Ensure that you only use cat shampoo for cats and dog shampoo for dogs. If you are using a spot on flea treatment‚ be sure to thoroughly dry your pet first‚ and follow the product instructions about how long to wait before you can bath your pet again. Image Credit: ressmaster‚ Shutterstock Eradicating Fleas From Your Carpet Unfortunately‚ removing fleas from your pet won’t solve the flea problem. Next‚ you’ll need to tackle your home. Starting with any carpets‚ you’ll have to vacuum quite thoroughly‚ twice. Follow this with a product to eradicate fleas‚ eggs and larvae in the environment. There are numerous licensed products for this purpose‚ and a few home remedies as well. One effective method is to sprinkle diatomaceous earth everywhere your pet spends time and then vacuum everything up. You’ll need to read the instructions‚ but you typically need to let the diatomaceous earth sit for 24 to 48 hours before vacuuming. This natural product is effective at killing off pests like fleas. It’s safe to use on everything‚ including your furniture and your pet’s bedding. After you’ve treated the floors‚ vacuum everything and throw out the bag or clean the canister thoroughly. Do this as many times as necessary. Eradicating Fleas From Your Bedding This step includes your pet’s bedding‚ and you’ll need to wash everything that can be thrown into a washing machine. You’ll need to wash sheets‚ pillows‚ and duvets on the hot water cycle. Once everything is dry‚ sprinkle your pet’s bedding with a repellent. This is where rosemary can come in handy‚ since it is an effective repellent for fleas. You can try grinding up rosemary and sprinkling it on‚ or you can make rosemary tea by steeping it in hot water for about 30 minutes (it should be strong!). Strain‚ let it cool‚ put it in a spray bottle‚ and spray anywhere your pet spends time. Eradicating Fleas From Your Yard This step might not apply to you if you don’t have a yard or pets that spend time in them‚ so if your pet is an indoor cat‚ you can probably skip this step. Fleas thrive in moist environments‚ so you’ll need to remove anything that enables water to accumulate‚ such as pools‚ grass clippings‚ and leaf piles. Consider using cedar chips around plants and shrubs or along pathways‚ as these function as flea repellent. You can try planting plants that are also flea repellents‚ but be careful not to plant any that are toxic to cats. Catnip is a great option – it repels fleas‚ and your cats will love it! Rosemary is another good choice. Finally‚ you can use diatomaceous earth or hire a professional to treat your lawn with insecticides that are not harmful to pets. Image Credit: Lightspruch‚ Shutterstock Flea Prevention Even if your pet doesn’t have fleas‚ prevention is best so you don’t have to go through all this in the first place. Topical treatments tend to be a small vial of product squeezed between your pet’s shoulder blades‚ or you can opt for an oral treatment‚ which usually needs to be given once a month. Some medications can be purchased at your local drugstore or online‚ but you must be careful about what kind you get‚ as it must be accurate for your pet’s species and weight. Giving a cat flea treatment formulated for dogs can be fatal‚ for example. And many non-prescription products are simply not very effective. It’s best to consult your veterinarian to ensure that you get the right treatment for your pet. Conclusion Rosemary can help to a certain degree as a repellent‚ but it will not kill fleas. These critters are a nuisance and can lead to serious health conditions. For example‚ cats can get cat scratch fever and tapeworms through flea bites. While natural remedies can help‚ nothing can do the job as well as what your veterinarian will recommend. Bear in mind that the longer that the fleas are around‚ the more there will be to get rid of. Sources https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-rosemary https://www.petmd.com/dog/parasites/evr_multi_understanding_the_flea_life_cycle https://www.petmd.com/cat/care/evr_ct_scratch_disease https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/infectious-parasitic/c_ct_cestodiasis   Featured Image Credit: Nika_Akin‚ Pixabay The post Does Rosemary Kill Fleas? Effectiveness Explained appeared first on Pet Keen.

Your dog might beg you to share your food with them‚ but it’s always best to do your research first to ensure that the food doesn’t contain any dangerous ingredients. One increasingly popular food that people might wonder about is golden berries‚ or Physalis.  These are the fruit of Physalis peruviana plant‚ a species of nightshade family that is native to Peru. Fortunately‚ golden berries are usually safe for dogs‚ in small amounts when ripe. Keep reading for factual answers to frequently asked questions about the pros and cons of feeding golden berries to your dog‚ along with serving tips and safe alternatives. What Are Golden Berries? A golden berry is a round fruit ranging from ⅓  to ¾ inch in diameter. When still on the plant‚ the fruit has a papery sheath that resembles a Chinese lantern. It’s golden yellow in color and has a sweet-tart flavor. Image Credit: Luis Echeverri Urrea‚ Shutterstock What Are the Benefits of Feeding Golden Berries to a Dog? Low in Calories Golden berries are relatively low in calories‚ making them suitable occasional treats for dogs‚ especially those watching their weight. Vitamin A The Vitamin A in golden berries can play a role in maintaining healthy skin‚ coat‚ and vision in dogs. It also supports immune function. Vitamin E While not present in high amounts in golden berries‚ vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. It supports the immune system and skin health in dogs. Image Credit: NORRIE3699‚ Shutterstock Vitamin K Vitamin K is necessary for proper blood clotting and bone health. Vitamin C Dogs can synthesize vitamin C‚ but supplementation can be beneficial to help support the immune system. B Vitamins Golden berries contain traces of B vitamins like B1 and B3. These play a crucial role in dogs’ energy levels‚ metabolism‚ nerve function‚ and overall cellular health. Image Credit: smrm1977‚ Shutterstock Potassium Golden berries contain potassium‚ an essential mineral that helps regulate fluid balance‚ nerve signals‚ and muscle contractions. Adequate potassium intake supports heart health and overall bodily function in dogs. Phosphorus Golden berries have phosphorus‚ an important nutrient for bone health‚ energy metabolism‚ and cellular function in dogs. It works in conjunction with calcium to maintain strong bones and teeth. Magnesium Golden berries contain magnesium‚ which plays a role in muscle and nerve function‚ bone health‚ and various enzymatic reactions in dogs. Adequate magnesium levels are vital for overall well-being. Image Credit: Sven Mewis‚ Shutterstock What Are the Risks of Feeding Golden Berries to a Dog? Toxic Compounds While ripe golden berries themselves aren’t generally considered toxic‚ the plant‚ as with all members of the nightshade family (Solanaceae) produces toxic alkaloid compounds such as solanine that are toxic to dogs.  These toxins are found in the unripe berries‚ the stem‚ the leaves and papery sheath.  It’s therefore vital that your dog is only given a ripe berry that comes from a safe and reliable source. Toxic effects of solanine can be as mild as gastro-intestinal upset‚ all the way to heart and neurological problems. Potential Allergies Dogs can have allergies to certain foods‚ including golden berries‚ and introducing a new food can also trigger an allergic reaction. Watch for signs like itching‚ redness‚ swelling‚ or gastrointestinal distress after feeding this fruit to your pet‚ and contact your vet immediately if you notice any problems. Digestive Sensitivity Dogs have different digestive systems than humans‚ and some foods can lead to digestive upset. Golden berries may not agree with your dog so it is important to monitor him after introducing any new foods. Image Credit: Edgar Feliz‚ Shutterstock How Can You Safely Feed Golden Berries to Your Dog? Feed ripe fruit only The golden rule of giving your dog a golden berry is to make sure it is ripe and to only feed them the orange berry itself. Never feed the stem‚ leaves or papery sheath to your dog. Consult Your Veterinarian Before making changes to your dog’s diet‚ consult your veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice based on your dog’s health‚ dietary needs‚ and pre-existing conditions. Clean Them Thoroughly Rinse your golden berries thoroughly before feeding them to your pet in order to remove pesticides and other contaminants. Image Credit: Piqsels Start Small Start by offering a tiny piece of a golden berry. Monitor your dog closely for any adverse reactions over the next 24 hours. Moderation Is Key It is anecdotally recommended to limit the consumption of golden berries to one to two per day or five to ten per week. What Are Alternatives to Golden Berries? Blueberries Strawberries Carrot sticks Apple slices Pumpkin Cooked sweet potatoes Plain cooked chicken or turkey Green beans Image Credit: Free-Photos‚ Pixabay Tips for a Healthy Diet Choose a high-quality commercial dog food that’s appropriate for your dog’s age‚ size‚ and health needs. Follow the feeding guidelines on the dog food packaging to prevent overfeeding. Adjust portions based on your dog’s activity level and weight. If your dog has been neutered‚ it is important to adjust helping size as their metabolic rate can slow down after being altered. Keep chocolate‚ grapes‚ raisins‚ onions‚ garlic‚ and certain artificial sweeteners (especially xylitol) out of your pet’s reach. Establish a regular feeding schedule to help regulate your dog’s digestion and prevent overeating. Summary Ripe golden berries are not toxic to dogs‚ and you can serve them in small quantities as occasional treats. Many dogs enjoy the flavor and will receive beneficial vitamins and minerals‚ including vitamins A‚ E‚ K‚ magnesium‚ and potassium. The berries must be ripe‚ though‚ and be aware that other parts of the plant are toxic‚ so your pet shouldn’t eat them. Call your vet immediately if you notice any signs that your dog is having an allergic reaction after eating a golden berry. Sources https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/nightshade https://www.animalbehaviorcollege.com/blog/health/plants-poisonous-to-dogs-and-cats/ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/fruits-vegetables-dogs-can-and-cant-eat/ Featured Image Credit: Noi Pattanan‚ Shutterstock The post Can Dogs Eat Golden Berries? Vet Approved Nutrition Advice appeared first on Pet Keen.

Disclaimer: Before changing your dog’s/ cat’s diet or introducing new ingredients or supplements that they haven’t eaten before‚ especially when it comes to human food‚ make sure to consult your veterinarian first. Every dog/cat is different and requires an individual approach to nutrition‚ depending on their age‚ health‚ level of activity‚ and medical history. The guidelines offered in our article have been fact-checked and approved by a veterinarian but should be used as a mere guide on food safety‚ rather than an individual nutrition plan. Some canines are extremely picky eaters. You can put the tastiest meal in front of them‚ and they’ll snub their nose and walk away. Others are voracious‚ devouring everything in their path. So if your dog has eaten a lime or you just want to gauge their reaction by squeezing something sour on their tongue‚ you did the right thing by checking to see if it’s safe. When it comes to limes‚ it would be best if you steered clear of this green citrus fruit for your pooch. Not only can the higher acidity in limes upset your dog’s stomach‚ but they can also be toxic in certain instances. Let us explain. Call Your Vet This article is in no way a substitution for professional veterinary guidance. The truth is‚ the fruit flesh portion of the lime is bitter but not usually problematic. The skin and stems are a different story. These toxic portions can cause gastrointestinal upset and more. If your dog has consumed a lime‚ and you are unsure how much and exactly what they ingested‚ call poison control or your vet for advice. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. Image Credit: guvo59‚ Pixabay Dogs Should Not Eat Limes Plainly and simply‚ dogs just shouldn’t eat limes. There is no nutritional value in lime that they don’t already get from their standard diet‚ so there’s no reason for them to have it in the first place. Next‚ they likely won’t enjoy the taste‚ as it is bitter and pungent. If they do eat limes‚ they might be in misery for sure. But the reality is‚ you might also‚ due to cleaning up unexpected messes. The effects of eating limes can cause body fluids from both ends that you might have to clean up—and no one wants that! Why Dogs Shouldn’t Eat Limes While limes have certain health benefits for humans‚ dogs won’t reap any reward from this fruit. Limes contain nothing your dog needs that they can’t get elsewhere through diet‚ supplements‚ and treats. Limes are quite tangy‚ and they make us make a sour face. So you might want to squeeze a little lime juice in your dog’s mouth just to see what kind of response you get. Or maybe your dog is just being nosy‚ and you want to give them a taste so they know to leave you alone. No matter your original reason for the question‚ here are some more in-depth details on why your dog shouldn’t have limes. Limes Can Upset the GI System If your dog eats limes‚ it can upset their gastrointestinal system‚ especially if they eat large quantities. If the lime disagrees with your dog’s stomach‚ you might notice vomiting‚ diarrhea‚ and general upset. It can be even worse if they have peelings‚ leaves‚ or stems. Image Credit: Mumemories‚ Shutterstock Lime Skins‚ Leaves‚ and Stems Are Toxic According to the ASPCA‚ limes are toxic to cats‚ dogs‚ and horses. If you gave your dog a taste of the fruit portion or just the juice itself‚ they might suffer a little stomach discomfort‚ but otherwise‚ be fine. However‚ if they ate any part of the skin or stems‚ that’s when trouble could set in. Lime poisoning occurs when your dog consumes any of these parts and can vary in severity. Limonene‚ found in the peel‚ causes vomiting and in higher doses tremors‚ weakness and low body temperature. Psoralens are also found in the plant which‚ in livestock‚ makes the skin sensitive to light; this could potentially occur in dogs. Linalool‚ also found in the plant‚ has been shown to be toxic in other species and could potentially be harmful to dogs. Fungal Toxin If your dog has eaten some limes that have fallen off a tree or are decomposing in a compost bin‚ they may have inadvertently ingested some fungus. Certain fungi secrete toxins that are harmful to dogs. If your dog has ingested a large amount of not-so-fresh limes it is worth contacting your veterinarian straight away. Signs of Lime Toxicity While it is unlikely that your dog will eat any of the skin or stems‚ it’s important to know that they can cause toxicity. So‚ if you are still determining exactly how much your dog consumed‚ here is what you need to know. Signs of lime toxicity include: Nausea Vomiting Diarrhea Lethargy Weakness Tremors Remember that some of these signs can spawn from the consumption itself‚ as it irritates your dog’s belly. So‚ it can be hard to tell the difference‚ and you shouldn’t try to self-diagnose. If you see any of the above signs after your dog eats a lime‚ contact your vet right away to get ahead of the issue. Image Credit: Image Credit: A-photographyy‚ Shutterstock Other Toxic Fruits for Dogs Now that you know lime carries toxicity risks‚ what other fruits should you avoid? Avocado Any fruit pits and seeds Rhubarb Grapes/raisins Grapefruit Unripe Tomatoes All citrus rinds Conclusion Now you understand that the outer parts of the lime are toxic to dogs. The inner fruit is not toxic‚ but it can cause gastrointestinal upset. If your dog shows any signs of toxicity after eating a lime‚ it’s best to go ahead and contact your veterinarian‚ just to be safe. So‚ if you want to give your dog a squirt of lime— don’t‚ and keep the lime out of reach. Sources https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/lime https://www.purina.com/articles/dog/can-dogs-eat/lemons https://www.msdvetmanual.com/special-pet-topics/poisoning/insecticide-poisoning https://www.msdvetmanual.com/integumentary-system/photosensitization/photosensitization-in-animals?query=psoralens https://todaysveterinarypractice.com/toxicology/practical-toxicologytremorgenic-mycotoxin-intoxication-dogs/ Featured Image Credit: congerdesign‚ Pixabay The post Can Dogs Eat Limes? Vet Approved Facts &; FAQ appeared first on Pet Keen.

Can cats break their tails? Absolutely—and it’s a veterinary emergency. This type of injury can happen for a variety of reasons. But just because a tail is wounded‚ it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s actually broken. The only way you can know for sure is by getting the appropriate care for your kitty at a veterinary clinic. In this article‚ we will discuss how your cat can injure or break their tail and how you can help them heal. The 5 Tips to Treat a Broken Tail 1. Go to Your Vet Immediately If you think your cat’s tail is broken‚ go to your vet without delay. Don’t wait to see how bad it gets before you decide to get help and don’t try to treat it yourself. A tail injury can be a simple fix‚ but it can also be excruciatingly painful and even dangerous for your cat if untreated. Never attempt to care for a cat’s injuries by bandaging or handling them until you receive medical guidance. Image Credit: 4 PM production‚ Shutterstock 2. Treat Based on Veterinary Guidance Your veterinarian will examine the tail and determine if x-rays are necessary.  If there is also tearing of skin‚ you might have to administer medications or care for the wound as directed by your vet. Whether the tail is broken or not you will need to keep your cat rested while they recover from injury. This will involve keeping your cat comfortable and stress-free. The first several weeks will definitely be the hardest‚ as this is when the injury is still causing a lot of pain and healing rapidly. True breaks will take longer to heal than a dislocation or skin wound in most cases. In some cases‚ complications mean that amputation of the tail is the best option for your cat. 3. Take Your Cat to All Required Checkups You must keep up with all recommended vet visits whenever your cat has a broken bone or any injury. This will ensure that your cat is healing properly and that there is no sign of infection or worsening of the injury. If there is any change requiring your vet needs to adjust medications or treatments‚ they can do so at this time. Image Credit: Andy Gin‚ Shutterstock 4. Monitor Your Cat Closely Be sure to keep an eye on your cat during this time. If you notice any behavioral or physical changes‚ return them to your veterinarian immediately. While uncommon‚ they can experience shock‚ infection‚ and other potentially problematic roadblocks during healing. Sometimes their medication doesn’t agree with them and sometimes they are simply in pain and need further pain relief. If your cat is vomiting or has bouts of diarrhea this could be a side effect of pain medications or other treatments. You need to run any of these issues past your vet’s office. 5. Keep Your Cat Hydrated and Well-Fed As with any injury‚ your cat’s body will be working extra hard to heal itself. During this time‚ proper hydration and quality nutrition are very important. If your cat lacks appetite during this time‚ you can always try to stimulate them by giving them wet canned cat food or pouring broth over their dry kibble. These aromatic stimulators will enhance your cat’s appetite and encourage them to eat. Keep fresh water around‚ and encourage them to drink! Image Credit: Vershinin89‚ Shutterstock Types of Tail Damage There are various kinds of tail damage. What might initially look like a break‚ also called a fracture‚ might be a sprain or dislocation. This is another reason why it is imperative to get to your vet immediately. Each injury requires different treatment‚ and some are more problematic than others. Let’s talk about the two most common tail injuries and how vets typically fix them. Image Credit: Vetlife‚ Shutterstock Dislocations Dislocations occur anywhere in the tail. When a dislocation happens‚ the connecting vertebrae of the tail are moved out of alignment and the connecting tissues damaged. Typically‚ this type of injury happens if a cat’s tail is accidentally stepped on‚ pulled‚ yanked‚ or caught in a door. Some signs of a dislocated tail include: Pain Kinks Drooping tail Tail-tucking Swelling How Dislocations Are Treated Your veterinarian will advise you on medications‚ surgery or any physical therapy that will be required. Often‚ your vet will prescribe anti-inflammatory or pain medications to soothe the injury. Only give your cat medications prescribed to them and never give human anti-inflammatory medications. Tail dislocations can be complicated by nerve damage. Nerve Damage Tail injuries that occur close to the base of the tail or pelvis have the potential to affect more than just the nerves of the tail. Sometimes the nerves going to the hind legs‚ bladder or anus are damaged. This can lead to weakness in the hind legs and loss of bladder or bowel control. While damage to the nerves supplying the tail is not good‚ nerve damage higher up close to the pelvis is much more serious. Sometimes‚ if the damage is only mild‚ nerve damage can improve over time. In more severe cases the damage can be permanent. Image Credit: Me Gi‚ Shutterstock Fractures/Breaks Fractures and breaks occur when the bones are damaged‚ split‚ splinter‚ or are crushed. This may happen in a road traffic accident or from being trapped. Typically fractures at the tip of the tail usually heal well without any surgical treatment. However‚ the more severe the break‚ the more involved the therapy. Again your veterinarian will advise you on medications and treatments required. Signs of a broken tail include: Pain Kinks Dragging tail Swelling FAQs Can Cats Move Broken Tails? Often if the cat’s tail is truly broken‚ they won’t really be able to move it. The more severe the break‚ the less mobile the tail will be. However‚ if the break occurs towards the tip of the tail‚ your cat might have more control over tail movement. Image Credit: olivier.laurent.photos‚ Shutterstock Will Vets Amputate Tails? Vets will  amputate tails if it is the best option for your cat‚ but it is not always the first line of action. Most tail breaks or fractures are minor in nature and heal with proper treatment. However‚ there may be situations where the injury is so severe that the tail should be amputated. If your vet determines that amputation is the right plan of action‚ you will need to be financially prepared for the surgery. If you have pet insurance‚ your insurance will cover most of the cost‚ but you may still be left with a pretty hefty bill. According to HowMuchIsIt.org‚ a tail amputation for a cat can cost as little as $500 to as much as $1‚100. This greatly depends on the complexity of the surgery‚ particular vet charges‚ and complications during surgery. Increased levels of care such as doing blood tests or providing fluids to your cat can also increase costs. Importance of Insurance or Coverage Vet bills can be very costly‚ especially for emergency visits. You might never anticipate a broken tail‚ so this could come as quite a surprise. To help yourself better prepare for these types of emergencies‚ pet insurance is widely available now to many owners. Each type of pet insurance has its own perks and works for a variety of budgets. We encourage you to explore the different options‚ so you are never put in a predicament where you can’t financially treat your animal. What If I Can’t Afford Treatment? If your cat’s tail requires amputation or extensive treatment and you can’t afford it‚ your vet can speak with you about alternative financial assistance. There are tons of support programs available to owners. Borrowing money from friends and family is a good option if possible. Also‚ feel free to look into animal shelters and nonprofit organizations. Often‚ these places have affordable vet care for these types of situations. Image credit: Gerd Altmann‚ Pixabay Complications of Broken Tails Likelihood of Nerve Damage If your cat’s tail is dislocated or broken‚ it can cause permanent or transient nerve damage. There are a lot of sensitive nerves that run through your cat’s tail. Think of it as the extension of a spinal cord. So‚ if the tail is wounded in any way‚ it can have a lot of nerve changes as a consequence. Cats can live without their tails however‚ if the nerves supplying the hind legs‚ bladder or anus are affected this will impact their quality of life. Treating Open Wounds on Tails If your cat has any open wounds on their tail due to injury‚ your vet might prescribe some topical treatments or medication. Iodine solutions such as Betadine are a safe antiseptic to use on cats. Length of Time to Heal Wounded Tails Every wounded tail can take a different length of time to heal‚ depending on the cause of injury and the severity. Surprisingly‚ a full recovery of a broken tail can take  from 6 weeks up to 6 months. It is essential to see your vet as recommended to ensure healing is going smoothly. Keeping Your Cat Rested While They Heal Depending on how your cat’s tail is treated‚ you need to keep them well rested during the healing process. Follow your veterinarians instructions as some cats will need strict cage rest while others may be able to walk around a small room. Keeping their stress levels down and preventing them from sudden movements will aid in healing. If your cat is unable to be confined safely‚ speak to your veterinarian about your concerns. Too much activity could further damage your cat’s tail or even prolong the healing process. Conclusion Your cat breaking its tail can be traumatic for both you and your kitty. The best thing you can do is follow your vet’s guidance on how to help your pal heal. It might take a while for them to be fully back to normal. But hopefully‚ with the right medical treatment‚ they will be back to normal in no time. Remember never to try to heal a broken tail on your own. How your vet will treat the broken tail will depend greatly on where it is broken and how severely it is injured. Sources https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/first-aid-for-injured-tails-in-cats https://www.furkin.com/blog/what-do-high-vet-bill https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&;id=4951820 Featured Image Credit: Tanakorn Akkarakulchai‚ Shutterstock The post How to Treat a Cat’s Broken Tail: 5 Vet Approved Tips appeared first on Pet Keen.

Parental rights continue to be attacked by big government‚ and it’s time parents start to seriously push back. In a most recent and devastating example‚ a couple in Great Britain have lost their bid to stop their daughter's mastectomy. Their 17-year-old daughter identifies as “non-binary” and claimed in the court that her parents believed LGBTQ+ people were “evil and satanic.” Her parents had asked the High Court in London for an injunction banning their child from having a mastectomy‚ which the judge refused to grant. The judge’s reasoning was that though the daughter was underage‚ she was turning 18 within a few days of the hearing and would therefore be able to give consent to gender-affirming treatment as an adult. The parents also sought to have the teenager made a subject of a psychiatric report claiming that their daughter’s sexual preferences were symptoms of a mental illness‚ which the judge also shut down. The judge ruled that it “would be wholly disproportionate to permit an expert to examine the teenager.” Pat Gray and Keith Malinak are understandably disturbed. “Yeah‚ that would be crazy to have somebody‚ you know‚ I don’t know‚ check her over. Look into where her mind is right now‚” Gray says. “This is not a good timeline that we’re on‚” Malinak adds. Want more from Pat Gray?To enjoy more of Pat's biting analysis and signature wit as he restores common sense to a senseless world‚ subscribe to BlazeTV — the largest multi-platform network of voices who love America‚ defend the Constitution‚ and live the American dream.

Megyn Kelly is spilling the beans on what happened between her and Chris Christie during Wednesday's Republican debate.During a debate commercial break‚ Christie confronted Kelly and the other debate moderators‚ and it was clear from his body language that Christie was upset about something. Nothing is heard in the video‚ leading to widespread speculation online. — (@) On Thursday‚ Kelly confirmed that Christie was upset with her."It was not off the record. He was pissed off. He was mad that he wasn't getting enough questions‚" Kelly revealed. According to Kelly‚ she told Christie that he would "be happy" in the second hour of the debate because the moderators were planning to ask him more questions. But she admitted that Christie "was right" that he "had been excluded" in the previous debate segment. That's because the candidates were arguing over one another‚ which stalled the debate several times.Still‚ Kelly defended the decision to give the other candidates more airtime."He's polling at 2%! OK? In no debate ever — and I've now done six of them — have we given as many questions to the guy who's at 3% as to the person who's in the lead‚ at least amongst the candidates on the stage. I'm sorry‚ Governor Christie. That's the way it is‚" Kelly said.Finally‚ Kelly highlighted how much time each candidate spoke during the debate‚ observing that Christie received almost the same amount of time as Nikki Haley."So I don't want to hear it‚ frankly. We did right by him. He got a ton of airtime. That's what he was mad about‚" Kelly said. "I like the guy‚ but just to break some news on what people speculating on‚ [the candidates] never like it when they don't get to speak." Here's What Chris Christie Said to Megyn Kelly During a GOP Debate Commercial Break in Viral Clip www.youtube.com Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors‚ sign up for our newsletters‚ and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

The government of Denmark voted to make the burning or destruction of holy books an illegal offence after a year filled with Quran burnings‚ protests‚ and international backlash.Copies of the Quran were burned during summer protests in Denmark and Sweden‚ which included a famous incident outside of a mosque in Stockholm on the Muslim holiday Eid.Several Qurans were burned outside foreign embassies in Copenhagen‚ as well‚ according to CNN. Danish police also recorded more than 500 protests involving some form of Quran desecration between July-November 2023‚ RT reported.The new legislation makes it a crime in Denmark to "to inappropriately treat‚ publicly or with the intention of dissemination in a wider circle‚ a writing with significant religious significance for a religious community or an object that appears as such."Burning‚ soiling‚ trampling‚ or cutting are all included as forbidden acts against scripture. The law reportedly allows an exception for art that says a desecration can make up "a minor part" of a performance.A 94-77 vote was made across party lines with Denmark's ruling three-party coalition. The Social Democrats‚ Venstre (which means "left")‚ and the Moderates make up the Danish left-wing government that represents nearly half of the country's seats.The 2022 Danish election saw the three parties form an alliance with their combined 50.09% of the vote‚ or 89 out of a possible 179 seats. The Green Left party was the fourth most-voted party‚ as well.Multiple parties condemned the new law‚ including the Socialist People’s Party.“Does Iran change its legislation because Denmark feels offended by something an Iranian could do? Does Pakistan? Does Saudi Arabia? The answer is no‚” said representative Karina Lorentzen."The law is designed to inhibit freedom of expression and artistic freedom. And that’s nothing to be proud of‚" said Steffen Larsen‚ legal representative for the Liberal Alliance‚ according to the Guardian."History will judge us harshly for this‚ and with good reason‚" said Inger Støjberg‚ leader of Denmark Democrats.The Organization of Islamic Cooperation‚ which represents 57 Muslim states‚ had “condemned” Sweden and Denmark in the summer of 2023 for allowing Quran-burning protests “under the garb of freedom of expression.”In total‚ 15 countries issued official condemnations of the Nordic country. Turkey warned Denmark that it was allowing a "provocative act which clearly constitutes a hate crime." It also warned Sweden at the time that the "unacceptable" acts could damage its attempt to join NATO.Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors‚ sign up for our newsletters‚ and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

Early last spring‚ on a morning that any Montana fly-fishing guide would commit minor crimes to duplicate — minimal wind‚ gin-clear water‚ a slight chill in the air from last night’s rain‚ and a consistent hatch of adult mayflies that caused the trout to rise in pods‚ or “boil‚” on the river’s surface‚ gorging on their breakfast — one of my clients for the day asked a question that I have come to loathe. “So‚” he said‚ hauling an Igloo cooler packed with White Claws into the boat‚ “how long will we have cell service?” My spirits sank. The tone had been set. As a 30-something‚ late-to-the-table guide‚ I am no stranger to drudgery‚ having found the career after a failed stint in copy editing‚ eventually trading cinder-block office walls for a backdrop of sage flats and majestic stands of cottonwoods. Ultimately‚ the river gave me refuge from the desk‚ and for that I am thankful‚ but the gig is not wholly absent of dread. Fielding the cell-service question‚ I knew: It was a day that would feel a lot more like work than like fishing. As far as client types go‚ the gentleman in question — let’s call him Adam — was not a particularly outstanding individual. He was a financial adviser from Texas (as many of them seem to be) and had booked the trip at the request of his father-in-law‚ a retired farmer and avid sportsman from the Midwest with perfect teeth and massive‚ calloused paws for hands. Recently wed‚ Adam had arranged the day‚ I suppose‚ to impress his new bride’s father‚ to bond en plein air with the man‚ and to appeal to that notion romanticized by generations of American media mythmaking: the illustrious and genteel brotherhood of the outdoors. Adam‚ however‚ was not the type to take joyously to woods and water. Before we embarked on the eight-hour trip down a tailwater stretch of the Missouri River known worldwide for its healthy‚ hard-fighting populations of wild trout‚ he made it clear that he’d be counting the minutes until we were back among civilization. “I just want you to know‚” he said‚ “that this is not my idea of a good time. I’ve got some work calls to make‚ so I’ll be taking care of that along the way.” Preparing for the worst‚ I relegated Adam to the stern seat and shoved off. Less than a mile downriver‚ iPhone glued to his ear‚ Adam had already negotiated monumental exchanges of money in stocks‚ secured a rental car for his next business trip‚ and executed what sounded like a swift and emotionless termination of an underling. Adam was on a roll‚ and he hadn’t once looked up to admire the view. Meanwhile‚ I did my best to usher the gregarious farmer seated up front — I’ll call him Bruce — through the most productive runs and riffles‚ tending to his line when it tangled‚ swapping his flies when conditions dictated‚ and engaging him in the kind of charming yet sterile banter that guides are known to master: no politics‚ no religion‚ and absolutely no mention of ex-wives. By lunchtime we’d netted and safely released several fish of good size‚ including Adam‚ who even hooked a few dim-witted rainbow trout while on the phone closing deals. Bruce guffawed at the acrobatic leaps of each fish‚ then regaled me with gripping tales of his primitive archery hunts for caribou and black bear in the Alaskan bush. As we sat and ate lunch in the shade‚ I even caught Adam regarding the flight of a golden eagle while polishing off his ham sandwich. Between a fury of email dispatches‚ I watched him lean back to take in the canyon walls that engulfed us‚ a crescent of sunlight cast across his face. “It’s kinda nice‚” he said‚ smiling a little‚ then curled back over his device. *** Both the social and physical confines of a guided fly-fishing trip in Montana are intimate‚ and a day on the water can bring out the best and worst in any angler. My boat is small (for maneuverability’s sake) and has no motor‚ but rather a set of anachronous yet fashionable oars hewn from a single slat of Douglas fir‚ reminiscent of something the Spartans may have stroked through the Saronic Gulf to defeat Xerxes in the Battle of Salamis‚ circa 480 BC. By nature of such close proximity‚ tensions can and do rise. True identities often bubble to the surface. For these reasons‚ the work of a guide frequently transcends the task of a simple fisherman and bleeds into that of a therapist‚ a confidant‚ an entertainer‚ a teacher‚ and — in the most extraordinary cases — a student. I delight in this aspect of the job‚ the opportunity to juggle so many identities for a revolving audience of wealthy strangers. I do my best to approach each day and every set of clients with an open mind‚ but doing so repeatedly presents an arduous emotional task. Despite my best efforts‚ I fall into lazy rhythms of judgment. I typecast and file away personalities in the database of my own mind: the rowdy frat bro bachelor trips; the doctor/lawyer duos; the outdoorsy couples draped in Patagonia and Arc’teryx; the brusque fathers with their uninterested teens; the reluctant and ungrateful businessmen‚ and on and on. As someone who sought his profession for its association with the free-spirited wilds of the West‚ driven by the democratic allure of fishing in the mountains‚ I’m ashamed of this impulse. It’s boring and obtuse‚ yet I submit to it all too readily. *** While I pushed us off the sandy beach and rowed us into the afternoon‚ I considered my impressions of Adam and the false duality of our worlds. I was upset with Adam for his inability to “unplug‚” but I was more upset with my readiness to hate Adam for the canned ideals I had thrust upon him‚ the relative ease with which I had written him off as an out-of-touch‚ capitalist dweeb. It was my job‚ after all‚ to meet him in the middle‚ to bring him into the experience on his own terms. To be sure‚ there is no better example of a guide’s responsibility‚ and I’d briefly lost sight of that role. For the rest of the day‚ effectively out of cell range‚ Adam morphed into a pleasant guest‚ asking questions about the river and the land‚ adjusting his cast when I prompted him‚ and even tossing out some unsolicited gems of financial advice that I’ve since employed. He spoke sincerely about his joy in joining a new family by way of his marriage‚ and a new camaraderie seemed to blossom between him and Bruce. They caught more fish and teased each other’s mistakes. It was perhaps not the biggest step in their relationship to come‚ but not the smallest either. After trailering the boat in the waning light‚ we shared the last three seltzers from Adam’s cooler beside the boat ramp. Bruce’s earnest Iowan smile beamed in the golden Montana evening. “Thanks for putting up with me‚” Adam said‚ reaching out to shake my hand. In his palm I felt the crinkle of bills. It was a cash tip: not the biggest I’d receive that season‚ but not the smallest. *** The greatest gift — and burden — of modern existence is the freedom to choose where you spend your attention. There is a war going on for our attention‚ and some are better than others at navigating the conflict. Some drift from stimulant to stimulant indiscriminately‚ while others have shut off their sensors entirely‚ incapable of awe‚ humility‚ and grace in the face of this planet’s strange beauty. Where do you spend the precious resource of your attention? I enjoy my time on the river not because it represents an escape from the “developed” world but because my time in each setting lends a greater appreciation for the other. I delight in the contrast between the technological and the wild‚ the refined and rugged‚ the primitive and modern. I am terrible at straddling this line‚ as most are‚ but it is my life’s goal to get better at directing my gaze at the things that matter. In her essay on the transformative power of looking‚ writer Annie Dillard reflects on a euphoric experience in nature‚ urging us to be open to such moments of transcendence‚ however they arrive: “It was less like seeing than like being for the first time seen‚ knocked breathless by a powerful glance. ... I had been my whole life a bell‚ and never knew it until at that moment I was lifted and struck.” I live for the sensation of being struck. I wonder‚ too‚ how I might usher people into those moments. Adam had gotten close‚ and that was enough for now. As we drove back to where Adam and Bruce’s vehicle was parked upstream‚ I pondered the arc of the day and felt the familiar soreness creep into my shoulders. The Missouri River traced a slick‚ green ribbon through the canyon beside us‚ shining in the sunset. When we crossed the invisible boundary of cell reception‚ I noticed a faint glow from Adam’s chest pocket‚ his phone waking up to a frenzy of alerts. It stayed there in its buttoned enclosure‚ and Adam sat relaxed in the passenger seat. He stared wistfully out the window‚ like a tired‚ dreamy child. Perhaps he was just drunk‚ or sunstruck‚ or bored. It didn’t matter. We had the earthy stench of fish and algae on our hands‚ and the cool gust of the A/C felt good.