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5 toxic foods not to feed pets

5 toxic foods not to feed pets
Pets are often curious and like to sniff around what their human parents are eating. As a result, one may get tempted to feed their pets from their own plate. However, this is a bad and dangerous habit. Individuals must remember that not all human foods are safe for pets. Some can harm them by causing severe health complications. Here are a few toxic foods to avoid feeding one’s pets. Garlic Garlic, onions, leeks, and chives belong to the family of vegetables called allium, which is highly toxic to cats and dogs. Feeding these may cause the pet’s red blood cells to rupture and lead to poisoning. Furthermore, garlic and onion can lead to gastrointestinal problems, such as excessive drooling, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Some pets may also experience symptoms like pale gums, lethargy, weakness, sudden collapse, and increased respiratory and heart rate. Chocolate People are often tempted to treat their furry companions with chocolate. However, even a small amount can harm them. Chocolate contains theobromine and methylxanthines, elements that are toxic to pets. It can cause diarrhea, vomiting, panting, hyperactivity, excessive urination and thirst, abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and tremors. Raisins Grapes, raisins, and currants can cause extreme toxicity, particularly in dogs.

8 warning indicators of a bed bug infestation

8 warning indicators of a bed bug infestation
It is crucial to detect the presence of bed bugs to prevent a full-blown infestation. These tiny pests can cause discomfort and sleep disturbances, so knowing the telltale signs they leave behind is essential. Regular inspections, particularly in and around sleeping areas, can help prevent a minor issue from becoming a significant infestation. Being vigilant for evident warning signs of bed bugs is necessary for early detection and intervention. Given below are a few signs: Visible bed bug bites One of the most noticeable signs of a bed bug infestation is the appearance of bites on the skin. These bites often manifest as small, itchy, red welts. What distinguishes bed bug bites from those of other insects is their tendency to occur in clusters or a linear pattern. Blood stains on bedding When bed bugs feed, they leave behind small traces of blood. This can result in tiny, rust-colored stains on sheets, pillowcases, and mattresses. Look for these marks, particularly near the seams and corners of bedding. Fecal spots and smears Bed bug feces appear as small, dark spots or smears on surfaces where they congregate. Common locations include mattress seams, furniture joints, and along baseboards. These spots are often mistaken for mold or dirt but are a distinctive sign of bed bug activity.

Top 7 bed bug-infested places

Top 7 bed bug-infested places
Bedbugs are among the peskiest pests and quite hard to get rid of. If they hang on to a person’s clothing or personal belongings, they can easily infest their homes, cars, etc. So, steering clear of bed bugs is crucial to avoid their bites and prevent one’s personal space from getting infested. One way to avoid catching bed bugs is to stay careful at a few hotspots where these insects usually lurk. These include the following: 1. Public transport Public transport seats, such as subway cars, cabs, and buses, are among the most common lurking places for bed bugs. They can easily hop on one’s clothing or personal items, like bags. One can avoid this by keeping their belongings carefully, not on the cushions, and checking their belongings properly upon reaching home. 2. Hotels Even though hotel beds are cleaned and disinfected before every check-in, the seats in a hotel’s waiting areas and lounge areas are usually not; chances are, these seats might be concealing bed bugs. So, it is best to avoid using these seats and keep luggage away from them when visiting hotels. 3. Office break rooms Bed bugs can thrive in office environments, especially in areas like break rooms where many people gather at once.

7 mistakes new entrepreneurs should avoid

7 mistakes new entrepreneurs should avoid
Venturing into entrepreneurship can be an exhilarating journey filled with the potential for success. However, new entrepreneurs often face many challenges and common pitfalls that can impact their business’s growth and sustainability. By avoiding these critical mistakes and embracing a mindset of continuous learning and adaptation, they can position their ventures for success. Here are 7 critical mistakes new entrepreneurs should avoid for laying a solid foundation for their business and ensuring its long-term success. Not conducting market research One of the most significant blunders a new entrepreneur can make is diving into a business without thorough market research. Understanding the target audience, competitors, and industry trends is paramount. Failing to do so can lead to products or services that miss the mark and wasted time and resources. Underestimating financial planning Inadequate financial planning is a recipe for disaster. New entrepreneurs often miscalculate their startup costs, operating expenses, and revenue projections. This oversight can lead to financial strain, debt, and even business failure. A comprehensive financial plan is essential for making informed decisions and ensuring sustainability. Not having a business plan Every business needs a well-structured business plan. Not having one can result in a lack of direction, inconsistency in decision-making, and difficulty securing funding.

Avoid these 6 trademark registration mistakes

Avoid these 6 trademark registration mistakes
Registering a trademark is an essential step that helps protect one’s brand and business identity. This asset distinguishes one’s products or services from others in the market. However, the process can be intricate, and many entrepreneurs and businesses make common mistakes when securing their trademarks. While some mistakes are fixable, some may require redoing the entire application. Here are some common errors one should be aware of to avoid wasting money or time. 1. Not knowing whether it’s individual or company ownership When a sole owner is mistakenly listed for a trademark that belongs to a partnership or company, it risks rejection during the application process. It can result in legal ownership and taxation complications. This is also a non-fixable mistake and may require redoing the application form. 2. Using common phrases or slogans for trademark The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) typically refuses registration for trademarks or slogans that are considered generic or descriptive. This may include everyday phrases that have widespread use. For example, “Think Green” or “Drive Safely.” If one’s slogan, commonly used in the market, is registered, another entity can file a letter of protest against it. 3. Not paying attention to details Technical and administrative errors can easily occur during the application process, including omitting critical information, failing to submit necessary documents, or improperly filling out application forms.

6 foods that help get rid of dark circles

6 foods that help get rid of dark circles
Aside from the role of genetics, healthy skin is typically a combination of the right food and a healthy lifestyle. Food plays a huge role in skin health, especially for issues like dark circles. One must eat nutritious ingredients that help in skin repair and nourishment, simply using expensive or extensive skincare products may not be enough. So, here are six foods to eat to help get rid of dark circles. Cucumbers They are mostly water and act as an elective and natural toner for the skin. This hydrating vegetable contains vitamin K, which helps in reducing dark circles by strengthening the blood vessel walls. There is no research to suggest this is a hundred percent effective method, but it is observed that it can help reduce the appearance of dark circles over time. Tomatoes A rich source of vitamins C and K, tomatoes are a great ingredient to add to meals. It also contains potassium, which is helpful in maintaining the right sodium-to-potassium ratio in the body. Tomatoes help in increasing blood circulation and also aid in protecting the blood vessels under the eyes. Oranges This is another vitamin C-rich ingredient that helps in keeping the skin clear and looking young.

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5 things to avoid doing in hotels

One of the joys of traveling is getting comfortable hotel accommodation for your stay. Just as we expect great service from these hotels, they expect the guests to follow certain protocols to make the experience pleasurable. It is important to understand this tacit agreement. On that note, here are some vital tips to remind you of things that you should avoid doing when you are staying in a hotel. Keep the bathroom door shut Taking a hot shower at the end of the day and sliding into the comfy blanket is one of the perks of being in a hotel. However, make sure you keep the bathroom door shut. The steam from the shower can enter the room and trigger the fire alarm. Don’t cover the smoke alarms Almost all hotels always have a smoking room available for their guests, as they understand it is a requirement for some. However, some guests will take a room that comes with a smoke alarm and cover the smoke alarms whenever they wish to indulge in activities that may set off the alarm. Avoid using the throw pillows Some hotels have these delicate items in the room, like throw pillows to add some personality to the room. However, if you notice, a lot of these items do not have a sleeve cover, and many hotels do not clean these pillows after every guest’s departure. These items could be a hotbed of germs, so it is best to avoid these throw pillows altogether. Stealing bathrobes is a big no-no It is normal to pack the shampoo, conditioner, and tea sachets from hotels. Most people do it, and it is quite acceptable as the customers pay for them. However, some may try to grab other items like bathrobes or coat hangers. Make sure to keep these items in the room after using them.

6 hotel booking mistakes to avoid for the best deals

Planning your travel itinerary is one of the most critical tasks to pay attention to, especially while reserving bookings online. Holiday deals and bundled packages might be tempting at first glance. But there are certain rookie booking mistakes and not-so-obvious pitfalls to avoid losing money. It doesn’t matter if you are a veteran traveler or a first-timer. Pay attention to these 6 common booking mistakes and get the best deal on the first attempt. Not reading reviews When you have website reviews available for reference, use them before comparing cheap hotels in Orlando or other locations. Filter hotels by best reviews and read a few for the chosen place of stay. Learn about their service and quality of amenities, and see whether it is worth booking in the first place. Not booking a refundable room Travel plans can change, so you need to account for contingencies that affect your booking dates. Always book a refundable room even if your plans change on the spur of the moment. Not using the hotel’s website Booking through third-party websites may fetch you cheap hotels in Orlando. But booking a room through the hotel website that offers the same discount or price match can be more beneficial. Guests get assigned the best rooms with better views and even upgrades for using the hotel’s official website. Booking at the wrong time Hotels usually try to fill up as many rooms as possible with advance booking while reserving some rooms for last-minute travelers. Book rooms well in advance, especially if you make plans for the holiday season. Hotels can double or triple their room prices for tourists who fail to book in advance. Not signing up for hotel rewards Hotels offer loyalty programs and membership benefits to frequent travelers. Loyalty points can be redeemed at the hotel front desk or online to book free stays and travel on your next vacation.

4 tips to manage flea and tick infestations in dogs

Flea and ticks are common parasites that carry different types of diseases. These pests thrive in soft and warm environments, and the pet’s fur is a perfect home for them. If left unchecked, they can cause severe complications. But there are simple ways to control and prevent this problem. Here are some effective preventive treatments, plants that repel parasites, changes in daily foods, and DIY remedies to manage the infestation: Effective treatments Simparica TRIO oral chews are suitable for dogs eight weeks and older, weighing at least 2.8 lbs. The tablet should be given once a month.  K9 Advantix II, on the other hand, is another popular monthly flea protection treatment that is effective within the first 12 hours of consumption. K9 Advantix is suitable for dogs seven weeks or older, weighing at least 4.4 lbs.  Bravetco® is a more long-lasting alternative as one tablet can prevent flea and tick infestations for 12 weeks. Bravetco® is available in five dosing options, depending on the size and weight of the dog. Some heartworm prescriptions like Advantage Multi® topical solution and Trifexis® oral chews also help counter flea and tick infections. Immunity boosting meals and foods Consult with a vet to better understand what dogs should eat daily to develop more resilience and fight flea and tick infestations. For example, garlic can ward off parasites and is safe to include in small quantities for most breeds. But ensure the garlic is always freshly chopped. Honey pairs well with this garlic mixture and boosts immunity to combat common allergens that trigger flea infestations. Helpful plants that repel parasites Swapping out old plants for pet-friendly plants can actually help repel fleas and ticks. Basil, catnip, chamomile, chrysanthemum, eucalyptus, plantain, garlic, lavender, lemongrass, marigolds, mint, pennyroyal, rosemary, rue, sage, tansy, thyme, wormwood, and yarrow are all acceptable choices.

3 tips that may help prevent and manage prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed forms of cancer. It is estimated that one in eight men is at risk, and the number gets higher in those above the age of 65. Thankfully, modern treatments and prescriptions have made it easier. Also, certain lifestyle changes, healthy eating habits, and effective measures for prevention lower the risk. Here is how early diagnosis, treatments, and simple suggestions can improve the quality of life. Prescription treatments Xofigo contains a radioactive element called radium RA 223 dichloride. The injection works well in a short-range radius to counter the spread of prostate cancer in the bone. Enzalutamide, marketed under the brand name XTANDI, is an alternative treatment option. Those who don’t respond well to hormonal or surgical treatments can consider these injections to lower and manage testosterone levels. XTANDI works by actively inhibiting androgen receptors to prevent or reduce cancer cell growth. Prescriptions aside, doctors suggest cryotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy for those who respond to regular treatments. However, the treatments vary depending on the spread of cancer and the severity of the symptoms. Best foods for prevention Tomatoes and watermelon are rich in lycopene and beneficial for prostate cancer prevention. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage, and cauliflower contain phytochemicals that help combat cancer-growing cells. Additionally, citrus-rich fruits, including oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes, help boost immunity. Tofu, chickpeas, lentils, sprouts, and peanuts contain isoflavones, which help lower the risk of prostate cancer. Note that daily foods must also supplement omega-3 fatty acids and folates sourced from fatty fish, leafy greens, and fortified whole foods. Overall, nutritionists recommend including more foods rich in antioxidants to fight oxidative damage. Effective lifestyle changes Exercise is one of the most significant changes to implement in daily routine. Any form of physical activity, including walking, running, jogging, and weight training, can help maintain a healthy body weight.

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4 ways to overcome an overactive bladder

4 ways to overcome an overactive bladder

Overactive bladder or OAB is a health condition that causes frequent and sudden urge to urinate. Statistics suggest that close to 35 million people in the country suffer from overactive bladder. Some people also experience urinary incontinence or unintentional loss of urine. It can be embarrassing to deal with the condition, as it can limit one’s social and professional life. The following tips can be used to effectively manage an overactive bladder: Typical treatment options Before we discuss tips for managing an overactive bladder, it is important to be aware of some treatment options. GEMTESA (vibegron) is one such treatment option. It activates beta-3 receptors, thereby allowing the bladder to relax and provide relief from being overactive. Apart from this, Myrbetriq can also be used for treating an overactive bladder, as it smoothens the muscles around the urinary bladder, increasing its storage capacity. Other options include TOVIAZ and INVOKANA®. Add cranberries to your food regimen  Cranberries are widely used to treat problems associated with bladder control. Similarly, other berries like strawberries and blueberries are also abundant in vitamin C, which can neutralize bad bacteria and prevent urinary tract infections. Berries also have high water content, which maintains hydration levels and helps manage bladder control. Cranberries can be eaten alone or can be added to smoothies, salads, and other delicious recipes. Limit washing and wiping Sanitary hygiene is essential. However, it can be counterintuitive going overboard. Women with overactive bladder experiencing menstruation might feel the constant need to clean themselves. However, excessive cleaning with soap can make the area dry and itchy, and it can aggravate symptoms of an overactive bladder. Hence it is recommended to avoid going overboard on washing and wiping or use hydrating cleaning products to retain the moisture. Practice exercises for bladder control Changes in certain habits related to urination can ease the symptoms or help retain bladder strength in the long run.
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5 tips to manage migraine attacks

5 tips to manage migraine attacks

Migraine is characterized by throbbing, lingering pain on either side of the head. It is common among those between 30 and 40 and more prevalent among women than men. According to research, at least 39 million people in the country live with migraine. Many people with this condition are sensitive to light and sound. Fortunately, lifestyle changes can reduce the frequency of migraines. Here are some effective ways that can help cope with migraines: Treatments People with migraines need to keep medications handy. Some of the common medicines used by adults for migraine attacks are UBRELVY™, Excedrin, Nurtec® ODT, and QULIPTA™. They block pathways in the brain that are responsible for migraine attacks. A doctor might also recommend preventive medicines if one experiences frequent and severe headaches that don’t respond well to treatment. These medications might reduce how often one gets an attack and reduce its severity. Foods to eat Fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds are high in antioxidants and fat and are great for keeping overall health in check. Magnesium-rich foods like avocados, apricots, almonds, cashews, and brown rice help the blood vessels relax and prevent headaches. Other items that help prevent headaches include leafy greens, dairy, and calcium-rich foods. Those who experience frequent migraine attacks are also often recommended to reduce the intake of high-sodium foods. Lifestyle choices Having a healthy sleep cycle is very rewarding. It’s good for one’s physical and mental health. Getting quality sleep every night can significantly reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. Migraines usually occur when the body doesn’t get enough rest and is stressed. Hydration and cold compress It’s essential to be hydrated at all times to help reduce the frequency of migraines. The body requires a certain amount of electrolytes and fluids to work its best. When one doesn’t replace these fluids and electrolytes, it causes dehydration, triggering migraine.
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