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Jacob Eastlick

10 Quick & Easy Home Tips to Prepare for Severe Storms

By Jacob Eastlick on March 25, 2020 0

Spring is a wonderful time of year. Unfortunately, spring can also come with rain, hail, high winds, tornadoes and whatever else Mother Nature has in store. Preparing before a severe storm hits is essential to potentially reducing storm damage to your home.

Here’s 10 quick and easy home tips you can use to prepare for the upcoming storm season.

1. Designate a safe place in your home to take shelter during a storm. This is ideally in the lowest level of your home with few windows or large furniture. Make sure all your family members know this is where to go in the event of a big storm.

2. Prepare a safe place for your pet(s). If you have pets keep in mind that storms, especially severe storms, will affect them too. Create a sleeping and eating area for your pets within the designated safe place of your home. Be sure to stock extra food, treats, and water.

Read: Storm Damage & Homeowners Insurance: 5 Things You Need to Know

3. Prepare an emergency kit. It’s a good idea to stockpile crucial items to help your family get through any power outage or delay in aid after a storm. Items to consider are:

  • Extra batteries of all sizes
  • Flashlights
  • Battery-operated radio
  • Portable cell phone charger
  • First-aid kit
  • Bottled water
  • Non-perishable snacks and meals
  • Blankets
  • Cash
Dog sleeping safely in their bed duringa storm

4. Check any wall air conditioners. Disastersafety.org recommends checking your wall air conditioners. Since these appliances essentially exist in a hole in your home, it’s important to make sure they’re sealed correctly. Specifically check:

  • The caulking around the air conditioner’s sleeve. Fill any gaps or cracks you see in the caulking
  • Weather stripping around the unit
  • The internal drain to make sure water is flowing freely

5. Test your sump pump. Make sure the system is draining properly and mechanical components are operating well. Consider battery-powered backup options in case there is a power outage.

6. Clean your gutters. When the rain comes, you need a clear drainage path away from your roof. This will prevent water from pooling at your house’s foundation and possibly entering your basement.

7. Secure your gutters. Make sure all downspouts and extensions are in place and are the proper length to move water away from your foundation. It’s generally recommended to divert water about 10 feet away from your home.

8. Make sure your trees are pruned and healthy. Windstorms can do a lot of damage. Get rid of trees that pose a potential risk for falling on your home or on another property you value.

Women cleaning out her house gutters

9. Secure your outdoor gear. This includes furniture, tools, mowers, etc. If they are not in use, put them away or tie them down. These can become either damaged or the cause of damage in a high wind situation.

Read: Storm Damage & Homeowners Insurance: 5 Things You Need to Know

10. Stay informed. Make sure you have a way of getting weather notifications. Several free weather apps will send you a push notification when severe weather is in your area. Keep in mind storms can come in the middle of the night. So, be sure to allow notifications and keep the sound on to hear the alerts. There are also weather radios you can use in your home that will alert you of severe storms any time of day.

Preparation before severe storms can make a huge difference in not only reducing storm damage but also the stress on you and your family. By implementing these simple home tips, you may be able to make this season’s severe storms feel a little less severe.

Posted by Auto-Owners Insurance.

Underground Service Line Coverage

By Jacob Eastlick on March 25, 2020 0

Underground service line coverageIf you own a home, you know that if something breaks or fails, it can  cause unexpected and devastating expenses. Underground lines that service a home for such things as water, sewer, gas, and internet can break, requiring costly repairs. While most of these lines aren’t covered by a base homeowner’s insurance policy, many insurance carriers offer optional limited coverage that can be added.

What types of underground lines would be covered? West Bend’s Underground Service Line Coverage Endorsement protects lines that provide water, sewer, natural gas, electrical power, internet access, telecommunications, data transmission, drainage, compressed air, heat, and steam. All these underground service lines provide great things to a home but can also present a great deal of risk!

So now that we know what kind of lines are covered, what kinds of “risks” to these lines are covered? Coverage is provided for an “underground service line failure.” Failure could include a leak, break, tear, rupture, collapse, or arcing of an underground service line connected to a home. It doesn’t include blockage or low pressure if the line hasn’t experienced any physical damage. The line must also run on the property owned by the insured. Check out the scenarios below to see how you could be impacted.

Scenario 1

Let’s say your home suddenly has no water or low water flow. You call a plumber who makes an emergency visit for an extra charge. The plumber tests the lines and determines the PVC piping from your home to the city’s lateral line is leaking. The repair requires removing a tree and other landscaping, then excavating down several feet into the ground. This requires additional materials and labor to replace the damaged lines. Repairs will cost thousands of dollars just to get running water back to the home. West Bend’s Underground Service Line Coverage Endorsement would provide up to $15,000 for repair expenses, as well as potential expedited fees, tree removal, landscaping repairs, excavation costs, line replacement, etc.

In today’s world of online connectivity, many people who work from home or go to school online could be devastated by internet failure. Here is another scenario.

Scenario 2

The internet service isn’t working so a technician spends several hours troubleshooting. He discovers the underground line that runs 500 feet from the road to the home must be replaced because the pipe that was installed 25 years ago to protect the line has deteriorated and collapsed, crushing the wires. The costs of trenching, excavation, material, labor, and possibly cutting through the driveway, sidewalk, or yard could all be covered by the Underground Service Line Coverage Endorsement up to the limit.

Underground Service Line Coverage is still somewhat new to the insurance industry so be sure to talk to your local agent about the exposures of underground service lines that provide many necessary services to your home. The minimal additional premium you’d pay would be well worth it if it saves you thousands of dollars in unexpected and devastating expenses!

Author Bio: Joyce Schuett is a senior Personal Lines underwriter and trainer who has been with West Bend for 15 years. She has her Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR) designation and she instructs several insurance classes. She was also an agent for West Bend for 8 years. She enjoys time at their family cabin in northern Wisconsin, deer hunting, and any time spent with her husband, two adult children, and their dogs.

Posted by Scott Stueber on Mar 24, 2020 10:33:41 AM

 

What are the common causes of water damage?

By Jacob Eastlick on March 18, 2020 0

Life just isn’t possible without water. But for all its life-giving benefits, water can also be a very destructive force of nature. If you rank all the potential disasters that could hit your property, water damage will stand a very good chance of taking the top spot.

Water damage affects buildings on so many levels. When water creeps into areas of your property where it shouldn’t be, your floor could warp. Water damage also discolors beautifully painted walls. All that moisture can also lead not only to the formation of mold inside the building but also to a vermin infestation. Worst of all, water damage that isn’t immediately addressed through water damage restoration could eventually weaken the foundation of any building.

Water damage is also deceptively costly. You might think that an inch or two of water flooding your home or business wouldn’t burn a hole in your pocket, but there have been cases where that little amount of water has caused damage that cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair and restore.

The worst thing about water damage is that it can happen at any time. Let’s take a look at some of the common causes of water damage.

Severe weather

Thunderstorms, hurricanes, and other natural disasters don’t happen every day, but when they do, there’ll always be the risk of water damage striking your property.

The strong winds and heavy downpour could damage your roof, sending a certain amount of rainwater straight down into your house or business. Worse, severe weather can sometimes lead to flash flooding, especially when your property is in a flood-prone area.

Clogged gutters

Your home’s gutter system is supposed to draw rainwater away from your house. However, gutters often get blocked by leaves, branches, and other types of debris over time. When that happens, rainwater won’t be able to flow properly away from your property and will instead overflow the edges of your gutters, run down the side of the house, and cause water damage on the ceiling, walls, and floors.

Leaking pipes

A loose-fitting pipe in the kitchen sink could leak enough water to damage the cabinet underneath it. A broken pipe inside walls could make things even more complicated. The water damage such a leak can cause would be huge, as the entire wall would be water damaged, and it’ll foster the formation of an entire colony of mold.Common causes of water damage

Worse yet would be a leaking plumbing supply line or a drainage pipe in the soil underneath your concrete slab. When this happens, you’ll likely face costly repairs.

Washing machine water supply line leak

Your washing machine is fed by water supply lines that are under constant pressure. If your lines are made from braided stainless steel, then you have nothing to worry about. The problem will be if your washing machine has rubber or PVC supply lines. They can easily wear out and rupture, which means your entire laundry room will be flooded in minutes if you don’t shut off the water source in time.

Condensation from AC

Your air conditioning unit produces condensation, with the moisture dripping from the unit’s evaporator coil into a drain pan and out of your property through a condensate drain line. This drainage system works until the drain pan is damaged, or the condensate drain line is clogged with dust or dirt.

With the water unable to get out, it will leak from your AC straight into your home. All that water dripping from your AC unit can damage the floor and walls and can even make your insulation soggy.

Blocked drains

The drains in your kitchen sink, bathroom floor, and your bathtub clog up for any number of reasons. Hair, grease buildup, toiletries, dirt, or even toys and other foreign objects could obstruct the drainpipe and prevent normal drainage. When not dealt with immediately, clogged drains can easily back up and eventually cause flooding and water damage inside your property.

Malfunctioning sprinkler systems

Once activated during a fire, a sprinkler system will no doubt save your property and even your life. The problem is, there have been incidents where older sprinkler systems have turned themselves on even when there isn’t the slightest indication of a fire. As you can guess, the water damage that a malfunctioning or accidentally set off the sprinkler system causes can be considerable, especially when there are computers and other electronic appliances all over your property.

Leaking water heater

If you have an old water heater, then the likelihood that it’ll eventually spring a leak is high. The same goes for poorly maintained or badly installed water heaters. Sometimes, the leak is brought about by too much tank pressure. When a water heater leaks, you can expect your basement, where it’s presumably located, to be flooded quickly.

Preventing water damage may be hard, but it’s not impossible. Address the possible causes mentioned above, and you just might have a chance of at least minimizing water damage.

So many variables can come into play when determining insurance coverage. Review your policy with your agent; he or she will be able to answer any questions you have about your coverages, or they can check with the carrier on your behalf.

Author Bio: Rachel Anderson is the Content Marketing Strategist at Arizona Fire & Water Restoration, Inc., a Phoenix-based company that provides water, fire, and smoke damage restoration as well as mold remediation and removal services. When not writing, she bowls and goes on trail hikes with her friends.

Posted by Scott Stueber on Mar 17, 2020 10:03:23 AM

Toxic Food Dogs Cannot Eat

By Jacob Eastlick on March 11, 2020 0

Dogs are natural scavengers, so we tend to assume that they can eat anything they want with no ill effects. We’ve all seen our dogs eat some very disgusting “floor candy” and still romp around happily afterwards. However, that doesn’t mean that all foods are safe for dogs to eat. There are many fruits, vegetables, and other substances which are toxic and even fatal to dogs.

If you’re the type of person who loves to feed their dogs kitchen scraps while you’re busy cooking, it’s important to know which foods are beneficial and which ones are harmful.

”There have been many studies done on food groups and their effects on canine health. By knowing which foods can cause health problems, you can save yourself an unnecessary trip to the vet.

Fruits that Dogs Cannot Eat

If you want to give your dog a sweet treat, watermelon, blueberries, and bananas (given in moderation) are all good fruits for dogs. Others like grapes can cause serious canine health problems.

Dog eating fruit

Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins can cause severe renal failure in dogs, and the toxic effects on these fruits have been well-documented in dogs of all ages and breeds. Some dogs appear mostly unaffected by this toxic effect, while others require only a minimal dose to develop symptoms of kidney failure.

If your pooch has accidentally gotten into some raisins or grapes, they can develop the following symptoms:

  • Vomiting and diarrhea within a few hours of ingestion. You may still be able to detect small amounts of undigested grapes or raisins.
  • Loss of appetite
  • Abdominal pain
  • Lowered urine production (oliguria) or completely stopped urine production (anuria)
  • Seizures
  • Coma
  • Lethargy and weakness
  • Tumors

If you suspect your dog has ingested grapes or raisins, you need to treat it as an emergency and head to the vet immediately. If you’ve seen your dog eating these fruits, you can try to induce vomiting, unless your dog is having trouble breathing or showing signs of shock. However, your vet will have many more treatment options available and will offer the best outcome for your dog, so plan on a trip even if the dog successfully purges the fruit.

Cherries

In general, cherry flesh is safe for dogs to eat, though it can cause an upset stomach in certain dogs. However, the cherry pit, stem, and leaves contain the toxic compound cyanide. Cyanide prevents cells in the body from utilizing oxygen, which leads to cell death. It’s fatal because it tends to attack the brain and heart first, since these organs use a lot of oxygen.

Eating one or two cherries usually isn’t disastrous for dogs, and your pooch is more likely to have an upset stomach than suffer from cyanide poisoning. However, if your dog has eaten multiple cherries, you should keep an eye out for the following symptoms:

  • Labored breathing
  • Dilated pupils
  • Red gums

If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to call the emergency vet.

Avocado

As with cherries, the main danger to your dog from avocado doesn’t come from eating the flesh; it comes from eating the pit or skin of the avocado fruit and the leaves or bark from the tree. The main danger of eating an avocado pit is the risk of intestinal blockage, which may need to be surgically removed.

Avocado leaves, skins, and bark contain a compound called persin, which is known to be a strong anti-fungal agent. Luckily, persin isn’t very toxic to dogs, and so far only a double case of dog fatalities suspected to be due to persin has been reported. Still, it’s been known to cause serious health problems in other animals, so it’s best to be safe and keep these parts of the avocado plant away from dogs.

Nightshade Family of Plants

Tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, etc belong to the nightshade family of plants, which also contains the well-known poisonous plant called belladonna. Nightshades contain a compound called solanine that is usually found in the stem and leaves of these plants. This compound can cause a variety of symptoms:

  • Respiratory depression
  • Ataxia
  • Drowsiness
  • Dilated pupils
  • Hyperthermia

Luckily, this compound tends to accumulate in the green parts of the plant and isn’t really present in the flesh. In fact, most canine solanine poisoning cases are a result of a dog eating leaves from a Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow shrub instead of tomatoes, potatoes or eggplants.

Conclusion: It’s the green part of the plant which is toxic and the rest is healthy for the dogs to consume.

Vegetables that Dogs Cannot Eat

Dogs are largely carnivores, yes, but even wolves need small amounts of plant matter to get all the nutrients they need. Lots of veggies make excellent, healthy snacks for your pooch, but there are some you should know to avoid.

dog eating carrot

Mushrooms

It’s important to remember that the term “mushroom” covers a huge variety of fungi, and there are many mushrooms that are also fatal to humans. There are many stories of people going foraging and accidentally eating a mushroom that leaves them in the hospital. Is the same true for dogs?

In general, yes. There’s nothing wrong with feeding your pooch some of your button or shiitake mushrooms, but if you’re out in the forest and your dog has snatched up a wild mushroom, you should immediately head to the vet.

Many common forest mushrooms, such as Amanita mushrooms, contain a wide variety of toxic compounds which can be fatal. Mushrooms of the Inocybe and Clitocybe genuses can cause neurological symptoms as well as increased urination and salivation.

Unless you’re an expert on forest mushrooms, it’s a good idea to take your dog to the vet if you’ve seen them eat a wild mushroom. The vet will be able to help your dog by offering different treatment options depending on the type of mushroom and the symptoms your dog is showing. If possible, also take a sample of the mushroom to assist your vet with diagnosis.

Alliums such as Garlic, Onions, and Chives

Alliums are a family of vegetables that include garlic, onions, chives, leeks, and scallions. If you’ve ever done any cooking, you’ll know they’re an essential part of any kitchen. They’re also incredibly dangerous to your dog.

Allium toxicity results in the breakdown of red blood cells, which in turn causes anemia and eventually death. Since the compound that causes this breakdown, N-propyl disulfide, is found in all parts of the plant, no part of an allium is safe to give to a dog.

At the same time, it’s worth mentioning that very small quantities of these foods won’t be harmful. But it could vary from breed to breed and you should consult your vet about the quantity of garlic or onion you want to feed your dog.

Rhubarb

Rhubarb is commonly used in pies and is actually considered a fruit in the United States. Rhubarb stems are non-toxic to dogs and, in fact, can have some beneficial qualities for constipated dogs. However, the leaves contain oxalic acid, which removes calcium from the bloodstream and eventually results in renal failure. Rhubarb toxicity has been reported in humans and large domestic animals including dogs.

Other Human Foods that are Toxic to Dogs

Macadamia Nuts

While macadamia nut toxicity has been reported in dogs, it’s still unknown what the toxic component is, since no other animal is similarly affected. It could be something in the nuts themselves or a mycotoxin that’s secreted by a fungus that grows on these nuts.

If treated, macadamia nut toxicity has a good prognosis, and dogs that are correctly treated are usually fine within 24 hours.

Chocolate

Chocolate is one of the most well-known toxic compounds that affect dogs, and most owners know to avoid giving chocolate to their pooches. Chocolate contains a methylxanthine known as theobromine which can cause cardiac arrest and seizures in dogs. The reason humans aren’t as affected is that we are able to break theobromine down more efficiently than dogs.

The tricky part about chocolate poisoning is that different types of chocolate contain different amounts of theobromine, and larger dogs will have to consume more chocolate to show the same symptoms as smaller dogs. PetMD has a handy chocolate poisoning calculator that can help you determine whether you need to head to the vet straight away.

Caffeine

Caffeine is another methylxanthine that can cause the same type of symptoms as theobromine in dogs. In fact, caffeine breaks down into theobromine in the body, which makes caffeine a seriously toxic compound to dogs. Caffeine is also absorbed much more quickly than theobromine, which means that it can affect your pooch much more quickly as well.

Ice Cream

What may seem like a harmless frosty treat can actually be pretty detrimental to your dog. Ice cream contains a number of different chemical compounds, some of which can be dangerous or harmful to your dog. Ice cream is usually made of dairy, and many dogs don’t have the enzymes to break down milk, leading to diarrhea and vomiting.

Ice cream also contains a ton of sugar, which is just as bad for dogs as it is for humans. It can lead to unwanted weight gain, which in turn leads to severe canine health issues. If the ice cream is sugar-free, it likely contains one of many sugar substitutes. One of these substitutes, xylitol, is incredibly toxic to dogs and can lead to fatal consequences.

While you can technically get away with vanilla ice cream as a doggy treat, it’s usually not a good idea. At best, your dog may get an upset stomach; at worst you’ll have subjected your dog to potentially toxic compounds.

Alcohol

Alcohol, in particular ethanol, can be extremely toxic to dogs. While fatal ingestions are rare, alcohol can still cause a number of really unpleasant symptoms in your dog:

  • Central nervous system depression
  • Ataxia
  • Lethargy
  • Severe respiratory depression
  • Coma

Most ethanol ingestions occur by accident and can easily be treated by a vet with hemodialysis. Most dogs recover within a day and are none the worse for wear.

Xylitol

Xylitol is a very popular sugar alternative that is used in sugar-free chewing gum, baked goods, cereals, and even toothpaste. Xylitol doesn’t have much of an impact on insulin levels in humans, but it causes significantly increased levels of insulin in dogs, rabbits, and many other animals.

This increase in insulin leads to severe hypoglycemia, where there isn’t enough blood sugar to keep the brain functioning. Xylitol also affects the canine liver, increasing various liver enzymes and potentially causing necrosis.

Symptoms of xylitol ingestion include the following:

  • Vomiting
  • Hypoglycemia (usually within an hour of ingestion)
  • Liver failure
  • Weakness
  • Seizures

What’s worse is that it only requires a tiny dose (0.5 g/kg) of xylitol to cause liver failure and hypoglycemia. Also, since hypoglycemia happens so quickly, it’s vital that you get your dog to the vet immediately after you’ve noticed them eating even the smallest amount of xylitol.

dog and cookies

Raw Yeast Dough

Raw yeast dough can actually affect your dog in two different ways. Firstly, bread dough tends to expand as it heats up due to the action of the yeast. This leads to a distended stomach, which is uncomfortable, though not in itself life-threatening. However, it can also lead to a fatal condition known as bloat, wherein the stomach actually twists on itself. Raw dough also contains ethanol due to the fermentation process, which can cause ethanol toxicity.

Nutmeg

Nutmeg contains a compound called myristicin, which causes hallucinations, increased heart rate, and even seizures. Myristicin affects both humans and dogs in the same way, but thanks to our larger body weight, we can eat much more nutmeg before we start experiencing the same symptoms.

In general, there’s no reason to worry if your dog has ingested a relatively small dose, but keep an eye out for signs of myristicin toxicity.

Foods that Should Be Given in Limited Amounts to Dogs

Dairy Products

Dairy products may be fine for your pooch, but it’s always a good idea to be careful. Dogs don’t have the ability to digest lactose, and they suffer the same consequences of lactose-intolerance that humans do. If you want to give your pooch a taste of dairy, try cheeses or yogurts that are fermented and have had most of the lactose removed.

Salt

Salt affects dogs in the same way as it does humans. If you feed your dog a salty pretzel, chances are they’ll be thirsty afterward. In fact, too much salt can lead to sodium ion poisoning, which can be fatal if left untreated.

Luckily, low doses of salt won’t hurt your pooch, but they don’t really need it either. You don’t need to freak out if your dog sneaks a salty snack off your plate, but you shouldn’t be consciously feeding your dog salt either.

Cashews

Cashews are packed with tons of vitamins and minerals and can be good for your dog in limited quantities. As with most nuts, though, they are also packed with tons of fat, which can lead to unwanted weight gain if you go overboard on treating your pooch. You can stick to a couple of unsalted cashews per day as an alternative high-value treat.

Almonds

Almonds aren’t toxic to dogs like other nuts are, but they’re still not something you should feed your dog on a daily basis. Almonds are a significant cause of bowel obstruction in dogs, especially in smaller breeds, which can be fatal if not surgically treated.

If you do give your dog almonds as a sometimes-treat, but sure to give them unsalted and unflavored almonds.

Cinnamon

Unlike nutmeg, cinnamon isn’t toxic to dogs. It can, however, irritate your dog’s mouth which will leave them uncomfortable and unhappy. Powdered cinnamon is especially unpleasant, as it can cause choking and difficulty breathing. Luckily, an ordinary amount of cinnamon used in baking or cooking isn’t enough to cause any negative symptoms in your pooch.

dog and muffin

Honey

Honey is safe for dogs to consume but it should be given in small quantities. Honey contains natural sugar along with small amounts of vitamins and minerals which can be beneficial. This means that while honey isn’t toxic to dogs, it can lead to similar problems as sugar intake like obesity and tooth decay, especially if you give your pooch honey on a regular basis.

Peanuts

Peanuts are safe for dogs to eat. They’re packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, but they also contain a large amount of fat. If you’re giving peanuts as a treat, try to stick to unsalted, unflavored peanuts to keep your dog’s sodium intake reasonable.

Dogs are well-known for loving peanut butter, and it’s a great way to give your dog a treat while still giving them something nutritious. Low-sodium peanut butter with no added sugar is the best option, and it’s vital that you make sure that the peanut butter doesn’t contain xylitol as a sugar substitute.

Harmful Ingredients in Dog Foods to Look Out For

In addition to being aware of certain toxic compounds found in human food, you should also be aware of several additives found in dog food that may be harmful to your pooch. Dog foods contain many additives to either extend their shelf life or to add flavor and texture to the food, and not all of them are healthy.

dog eating from a bowl

When choosing a dog food, it’s a good idea to check the label list and keep an eye out for certain harmful compounds. The ingredient label is also a good place to check whether the food is high-quality.

Most high-quality foods will list their protein and grain sources specifically and not simply as generic “animal by-product.” High-quality dog food is a great way to keep your dog healthy and ensure that they get all the vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients they need.

Ethoxyquin

Ethoxyquin (EQ) is an antioxidant that’s used to protect polyunsaturated fatty acids from degrading and becoming rancid. Some products, like fish meal, are actually high enough in unsaturated fatty acids that they can catch fire if the fatty acids aren’t protected by an antioxidant.

There have been concerns about the safety of EQ since the early 1990s, and many EU countries do not allow this compound in food for human consumption. These restrictions are much more relaxed in animal feed, where levels of up to 150 mg/kg are allowed. To date, the safety of this compound hasn’t been established at all, despite its prevalent use in dog food and other types of animal feed.

Propylene Glycol

Propylene glycol is a very versatile compound that is used in a wide array of industries for a number of different functions. In terms of food, it’s used in ice cream, soda, liquid sweeteners, and whipped dairy products to keep them stable. It’s also used as a vaporizer medium to deliver pharmaceutical compounds and is generally considered safe for use by the FDA.

A long term study of beagles found that even feeding propylene glycol directly to dogs didn’t adversely affect them. Even though this product is considered to be safe to ingest, it may have negative consequences for some dogs. It reduces the moisture content in food, which may lead to intestinal blockages in some breeds that don’t produce enough saliva.

BHT/BHA

Butylated-hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are antioxidant compounds that have been added to foods to prevent them from going rancid. These are approved for use by the FDA as long as they don’t make up more than 0.02% of the total fat or oil content.

However, studies in rats have shown that BHA produces tumors in the forestomach skin of rodents, but it was determined that it isn’t a carcinogen for humans based on the levels at which this compound appears in food. Despite this, California has declared the compound a carcinogen and advises consumers to be aware of products containing it.

Corn Syrup/Corn

Corn syrup is commonly used in the United States as a sweetener due to its low cost. Your dog’s food doesn’t need to be sweetened, and sugar of any kind is typically unhealthy for dogs. Avoid any dog products that contain corn syrup, since they don’t need extra sugar in their diet.

Corn itself is commonly used as a filler in dog foods since it’s cheap and easy to digest. The main danger from corn and many other grains is that they’re vulnerable to fungal growth while in storage. Many fungi produce mycotoxins that can induce liver failure in dogs and eventually result in death. Mycotoxin contamination is a huge issue in the dog food industry, which is why it’s a good idea to avoid dog food that contains large amounts of grain or corn.

Vitamin D Poisoning in Dogs

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that regulates calcium and phosphorus levels in the body. It assists in bone growth as well as nerve and muscle control. You might assume that since vitamins are good for you, exposure to a lot of vitamin D would be a good thing.

The truth is that because vitamin D is fat-soluble, excess vitamin D isn’t excreted in the urine and is actually stored in the liver and fatty tissues of the body. This can lead to elevated levels of calcium and phosphorus in the body, which can be harmful or even fatal to your dog.

The leading cause of vitamin D toxicity in dogs is due to the ingestion of rodenticides which contain large amounts of vitamin D3. It can also be caused by overfeeding or over-supplementation of vitamin D, though this quite rare in dogs and more common in humans.

The following symptoms of vitamin D poisoning start to occur within 12 to 36 hours of ingestion of the rodenticide:

  • Vomiting with blood in the vomit
  • Weakness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Increased drinking
  • Excessive drooling
  • Feces containing blood
  • Depression
  • Secondary bacterial infection
  • Seizures

The first 72 hours after the excess vitamin D ingestion are critical to the survival of your dog. Typically treatment consists of IV hydration, which regulates the electrolyte balance in your dog’s blood and helps flush excess calcium out of the system. The treatment for vitamin D poisoning is usually quite lengthy and expensive, and your dog will need to be monitored for a long time after exposure to make sure their calcium and phosphorous levels are normal.

The best way to prevent vitamin D toxicity is to avoid leaving rodenticides and other pesticides in areas that your dog can access. Ideally, they should be in a locked cabinet, and if you’ve placed a rodenticide in your home to poison some rats, you’ll need to monitor your dog’s activity very carefully.

If you’re planning on starting some form of vitamin D supplementation for your pooch, be sure to consult with your vet in order to make sure that it’s a safe and necessary thing to do. If your vet recommended vitamin D supplementation, they will probably take regular blood tests to ensure your dog’s calcium and phosphorous levels are normal.

Is it Safe to Give Dogs Bones?

In the past, dogs were regularly given all sorts of bones, from pork bones from a Sunday roast to marrow bones to keep their teeth clean. Bones actually have many benefits for dogs: they provide a good source of vitamins and minerals, and they’re an entertaining way to satisfy your dog’s need to chew. However, not all bones are made equal, and some can be actively harmful to your pooch.

dog eating bone

Cooked Bones

You should never, ever feed your dog cooked bones. Bones that have been cooked are more brittle, making them prone to splinter into shards. This can cut up your dog’s mouth and can cause serious damage to the rest of your dog’s digestive system, from throat all the way to the intestines.

Cooked bones include commercially-sold smoked or baked bone treats as well as any bones from your leftovers. No matter how pitifully your dog looks when you pull out the roast, don’t give in to temptation. The potential harm is definitely not worth the risk.

Raw Bones

Raw bones are much more flexible than cooked bones and if you’re going to feed your dog bones, then they should always be raw. The current recommendation is to give your dog a bone the size of their head. This minimizes the chance of choking and allows your dog to gnaw without breaking off huge chunks of bone.

You should also try to avoid so-called marrow bones as they can cause serious issues. In addition to the risk of intestinal blockage, these bones can get stuck on your dog’s jaw and may require surgery to remove. Also avoid “round” bones, which are very hard and can cause tooth damage, mouth abscesses, and infections of the tooth root.

You can consider edible bones, which are typically the non-weight bearing bones of birds. These bones are really soft and can be crushed in a grinder. Their main benefit is that they provide a wide array of vitamins and minerals which are very useful in maintaining your dog’s health.

How to Feed Raw Bones Safely

You should never, ever leave your dog unattended when they’re playing and gnawing on a bone due to the health risks these bones pose. By following a few simple guidelines, you can ensure that your dog gets all the benefits of eating raw bones without many of the risks.

Keep an eye out for choking or blood on the bone or your dog’s mouth. Some dogs get very enthusiastic when chewing a bone and can either bite off a splinter or injure their mouth from over-exuberant gnawing.

Feed the bones in an area that you don’t mind getting dirty. Bones can become extremely gooey and gross during your dog’s chewing session, and you don’t want that goo getting into your carpet.

Knucklebones have a hard, brittle part that can splinter and injure your dog. Once your dog has chewed the bone down to this part, remove it and throw it out. Also don’t allow your dog to gnaw their bone down into a chunk small enough to swallow.

If your dog has a predisposition to pancreatitis, avoid giving marrow bones, since marrow contains a lot of fat and can trigger a flare-up. You can reduce the fat content of the bone by removing the marrow with a spoon before giving it to your dog.

If you’re unsure whether or not you want to risk the potential health complications associated with bones, there are still plenty of ways you can provide your dog with a similar experience. Edible dental bones are available at many vet shops, and they consist of high-quality materials that are easily digested while providing the same mechanical abrasion as a good bone. Be sure to avoid low-quality chew bones that contain unhealthy ingredients like corn, animal by-products, sugar, or artificial sweeteners.

Can Dogs Eat Nuts?

Nuts and seeds are a complex topic because while some nuts are safe, others are highly toxic to dogs. In general, you can feed your dog peanuts, almonds, and cashews, preferably unsalted and unflavored. If it’s your dog’s first time with nuts, be sure to go slowly to avoid gastric distress.

You should avoid macadamia nuts and black walnuts, which are both known to be extremely toxic to dogs. The cause of this toxicity is still unknown, and some dogs react much worse to these nuts than others. It’s best to be on the safe side and avoid them completely.

If you use peanut butter as a treat, make sure to stick to no-sugar-added, low-sodium varieties as they tend to be the healthiest. However, be on the lookout for xylitol, especially in sugar-free peanut butter, as it’s an incredibly toxic compound to dogs.

dog eating from a bowl

When it comes to seeds, the general consensus is that most fruit seeds are safe, as are sunflower seeds. Fruit pits are a no-go since they contain cyanide. Avoid giving your dog any stone fruit pits, such as peaches, cherries, and apricots.

Some dogs, especially those with conditions such as pancreatitis, should avoid nuts completely, as their high-fat content can make your dog seriously ill. Also, large nuts like pecans may not be toxic, but they can cause intestinal blockages due to their size and a dog’s propensity to inhale treats without chewing well.

Common Household Items that are Toxic to Dogs

Drugs

Drugs that are designed for humans will not work the same on dogs, and it’s always a bad idea to give dogs human drugs. This applies both to medical drugs and recreational drugs. Remember that, even in the best-case scenario, most dogs don’t have the same body mass or metabolism that we do, and drugs will tend to affect them more severely. In the worst-case scenario, these drugs may be actively toxic to your dog.

Antifreeze

Antifreeze contains a compound called ethylene glycol (not to be confused with propylene glycol) that reduces the freezing temperature of water so that it remains liquid at lower temperatures. Antifreeze poisoning affects the liver, kidneys, and brain and can be fatal. What’s worse is that you don’t need a large dose of antifreeze; just 6.6 ml/kg is enough to be lethal. Keep all bottles of antifreeze well out of your dog’s reach.

Plants

There are many common garden plants that can be toxic to dogs. These can include:

  • Azaleas: ingesting a couple of leaves can cause irritation of the mouth and diarrhea, while severe poisoning can cause a drop in blood pressure, coma, and death.
  • Daffodil: eating any part of the daffodil, including stems, flowers, and leaves can cause a significant drop in blood pressure and convulsions. The flower bulb is the most poisonous part of the plant and can cause heart arrhythmia and death.
  • Oleander: the leaves and flowers contain glycosides, which are toxins that can cause muscle tremors, heart abnormalities, and bloody diarrhea and can be fatal in large doses.

Dishwashing Detergent

Laundry or dishwashing detergent is harmful to humans and has a similar effect on dogs. Even ingesting a small amount is enough to cause vomiting and gastrointestinal upset. Dishwashing and laundry detergents can contain anionic or cationic mixtures which can be toxic and even fatal to dogs.

Bleach

It’s important to note that there is a difference between household and industrial bleach. Household bleach is much milder, and while it can cause irritation and gastrointestinal distress, chances are it won’t be fatal. Industrial bleach is usually very corrosive and has a pH of between 11 and 12. It can damage all parts of the canine digestive system, and these lesions can take months to heal, even if they’re caught early.

Pest Control Compounds

Rodenticides are specifically designed to poison and kill small animals, and they can do the same to your dog. Vitamin D poisoning is usually the result of a dog eating rodenticide or another pesticide.

What to Do if Your Dog Eats Something Toxic

When it comes to helping your pooch out, the first few hours after ingestion are usually the most important. Knowing what to do if your dog eats something toxic can save their life.

Your first step should be to remove them from the source of the poison if you catch them eating it. Try to identify the poison and take some contents along with you to the vet. If your dog has vomited, gather a sample. This will help the vet make their diagnosis quicker and start treatment sooner (your dog insurance might cover the cost on this). Don’t induce vomiting unless the vet specifically instructs you to.

The sooner you can get your dog to a vet, the better. Make sure to have an emergency vet on speed-dial, just in the event of a poisoning emergency. While you’re on your way to the vet, you can also call the Pet Poison Hotline, which will relay any necessary information to the vet so that they can start treatment as soon as you arrive.

References

“Safety and Efficacy of Ethoxyquin (6-Ethoxy-1,2-Dihydro-2,2,4-Trimethylquinoline) for All Animal Species.” EFSA Journal, vol. 13, no. 11, 2015, p. 4272. Wiley Online Library, doi:10.2903/j.efsa.2015.4272.

Botha, C.J., and M-L. Penrith. “Potential Plant Poisonings in Dogs and Cats in Southern Africa : Review Article.” Journal of the South African Veterinary Association 80, no. 2 (May 22, 2009): 63–74. https://doi.org/10.4102/jsava.v80i2.173.

Campbell, A., and N. Bates. “Xylitol Toxicity in Dogs.” Veterinary Record 167, no. 3 (July 17, 2010): 108–108. https://doi.org/10.1136/vr.c3789.

Cushny, A. R. “Nutmeg Poisoning.” Proceedings of the Royal Society of Medicine 1, no. Ther_Pharmacol (April 1908): 39–44. https://doi.org/10.1177/003591570800101313.

Dassanayake, Uditha, and Christeine Gnanathasan. “Acute Renal Failure Following Oxalic Acid Poisoning: A Case Report.” Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology 7, no. 1 (2012): 17. https://doi.org/10.1186/1745-6673-7-17.

Eubig, Paul A., Melinda S. Brady, Sharon M. Gwaltney‐Brant, Safdar A. Khan, Elisa M. Mazzaferro, and Carla M. K. Morrow. “Acute Renal Failure in Dogs After the Ingestion of Grapes or Raisins: A Retrospective Evaluation of 43 Dogs (1992–2002).” Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 19, no. 5 (September 1, 2005): 663–74. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1939-1676.2005.tb02744.x.

Garcia, Juliana, Vera M. Costa, Alexandra Carvalho, Paula Baptista, Paula Guedes de Pinho, Maria de Lourdes Bastos, and Félix Carvalho. “Amanita Phalloides Poisoning: Mechanisms of Toxicity and Treatment.” Food and Chemical Toxicology 86 (December 2015): 41–55. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2015.09.008.

Gazzotti, T., et al. “Occurrence of Mycotoxins in Extruded Commercial Dog Food.” Animal Feed Science and Technology, vol. 202, Apr. 2015, pp. 81–89. ScienceDirect, doi:10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2015.02.004.

Grice, H. C. “Safety Evaluation of Butylated Hydroxyanisole from the Perspective of Effects on Forestomach and Oesophageal Squamous Epithelium.” Food and Chemical Toxicology, vol. 26, no. 8, Jan. 1988, pp. 717–23. ScienceDirect, doi:10.1016/0278-6915(88)90072-5.

Hansen, SR, WB Buck, G Meerdink, and SA Khan. “Weakness, Tremors, and Depression Associated with Macadamia Nuts in Dogs.” Veterinary and Human Toxicology 42, no. 1 (February 2000): 18–21.

Hayes, G. “Gastrointestinal Foreign Bodies in Dogs and Cats: A Retrospective Study of 208 Cases.” Journal of Small Animal Practice 50, no. 11 (November 2009): 576–83. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1748-5827.2009.00783.x.

Keno, Lisa A., and Cathy E. Langston. “Treatment of Accidental Ethanol Intoxication with Hemodialysis in a Dog: Ethanol Intoxication Treated with Hemodialysis.” Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care 21, no. 4 (August 2011): 363–68. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1476-4431.2011.00652.x.

Koning, Adrianus J. de. “The Antioxidant Ethoxyquin and Its Analogues: A Review.” International Journal of Food Properties, vol. 5, no. 2, July 2002, pp. 451–61. Taylor and Francis+NEJM, doi:10.1081/JFP-120005797.

Mellanby, R. J., et al. “Hypercalcaemia in Two Dogs Caused by Excessive Dietary Supplementation of Vitamin D.” Journal of Small Animal Practice, vol. 46, no. 7, 2005, pp. 334–38. Wiley Online Library, doi:10.1111/j.1748-5827.2005.tb00329.x.

Ooms, Tara G., Safdar A. Khan, and Charlotte Means. “Suspected Caffeine and Ephedrine Toxicosis Resulting from Ingestion of an Herbal Supplement Containing Guarana and Ma Huang in Dogs: 47 Cases (1997-1999).” Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 218, no. 2 (January 2001): 225–29. https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.2001.218.225.

Patil, B.C., R.P. Sharma, D.K. Salunkhe, and Kirti Salunkhe. “Evaluation of Solanine Toxicity.” Food and Cosmetics Toxicology 10, no. 3 (January 1972): 395–98. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0015-6264(72)80258-X.

Salgado, Bs, Ln Monteiro, and Ns Rocha. “Allium Species Poisoning in Dogs and Cats.” Journal of Venomous Animals and Toxins Including Tropical Diseases 17, no. 1 (2011): 4–11. https://doi.org/10.1590/S1678-91992011000100002.

Schweighauser, A., and T. Francey. “Ethylene Glycol Poisoning in Three Dogs: Importance of Early Diagnosis and Role of Hemodialysis as a Treatment Option.” Schweiz Arch Tierheilkd, vol. 158, no. 2, Feb. 2016, pp. 109–14. DOI.org (Crossref), doi:10.17236/sat00051.

Singh, M, S Cowan, and G Child. “Brunfelsia Spp (Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow) Toxicity in Four Dogs.” Australian Veterinary Journal 86, no. 6 (June 2008): 214–18. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1751-0813.2008.00286.x.

Unknown. “Acute Renal Failure Following Oxalic Acid Poisoning: A Case Report.” Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology 7, no. 1 (2012): 17. https://doi.org/10.1186/1745-6673-7-17.

Weil, C. S., et al. “Results of Feeding Propylene Glycol in the Diet to Dogs for Two Years.” Food and Cosmetics Toxicology, vol. 9, no. 4, Jan. 1971, pp. 479–90. ScienceDirect, doi:10.1016/0015-6264(71)90078-2.

SOURCE:  Fuzzy Rescue, Author: Becky Roberts, Posted March, 2020.

Three things people wish they knew before buying a home

By Jacob Eastlick on March 5, 2020 0

The majority of homeowners will tell you that the homebuying process is exhausting, but also quite exhilarating at the same time. They’ll tell you about their search for the perfect home and how exciting it is to own your first home. But, more importantly, they’ll tell you about the mistakes they made and what they wish they knew before diving into the journey.Tips for buying a home

While it may be intimidating to listen to these homeowners’ biggest obstacles, it’s also necessary to be informed about what not to do. The more mistakes you hear about, the less mishaps you’ll experience and the more prepared you’ll be when it comes time for you to buy a home. To help you avoid making some common mistakes, check out these three things current homeowners wish they knew before starting the homebuying process.

1. An emergency fund is essential. One thing most first-time homeowners will tell you is that once they signed on the dotted line, they faced unanticipated expenses that actually required a lot of extra cash. Not only do most new homes come with certain fees and closing costs, but they also often require hefty tasks like siding updates, roofing repairs, and other property improvements shortly after closing. In fact, a recent report claims that 44% of new homeowners will experience one or more of these expenditures in their first year of homeownership.

That said, it’s critical that you build up a healthy savings account that prepares you for these costs. Cutting back on spending, setting up auto-deposits, and most importantly, saving as early as possible will best help you boost your savings. And, if later on down the road, you’ve already used up a chunk of your savings, don’t worry– there are options like home equity loans that allow you to use the equity you’ve built up in your home to acquire cash that can fund major home repairs.

2. Too much debt can ruin the homebuying experience from the get-go. Many adults dive into the homebuying process even though they’re not financially prepared. In the current market of potential homebuyers, a large portion of people have delayed buying a home due to an inability to get approved for a mortgage and a lack of means to afford a down payment, both heavily influenced by an individual’s amount of outstanding debt. In fact, millennials specifically have delayed home buying by 10 years compared to previous generations.

Amidst student loan debts, car payments, and phone bills, a budget can be hard to manage and buying a home can seem like a distant dream. Before you sign up for another source of debt as substantial as a mortgage and add on an additional monthly payment, eliminate as much debt as possible. Commit to a budget-oriented lifestyle and allocate a larger percentage of your monthly income to paying off credit card bills or student loans. That way, you’ll be more comfortable taking on another payment and lenders will be more likely to approve your mortgage application.

3. Pre-approval is a necessity. This might sound like a no-brainer, but it’s actually a common mistake. Believe it or not, lots of potential homebuyers begin touring open houses and are blindsided by the perfect home. They rush to find a lender and get approved for a mortgage and by the time they’re ready to put in an offer on their dream home, the sellers have stopped taking them or another offer has already been accepted.

This situation illustrates the importance of getting pre-approved for a mortgage, especially in a competitive market. The process can move very quickly, so you’ll need to have your pre-approval settled and your offer ready to deliver once you find the ideal home. Keep in mind too, that you shouldn’t settle for the first bank that grants you pre-approval. Shop around so you can find the right lender for you that best fits your financial situation and guarantees a good interest rate and monthly payments.

Don’t overlook any details throughout your house hunt. While nobody’s home-buying journey is perfect the first time around, you can better your chances of a smoother experience by reading insider tips like these.

Posted by Scott Stueber on Mar 3, 2020 9:30:58 AM

Tips for saving money while traveling

By Jacob Eastlick on February 25, 2020 0

Traveling, whether it’s for work or leisure, can be pricey. When you’re going on vacation with friends or family or visiting a client for business, you should always do your research beforehand. This can help you to be prepared to balance costs and experience. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to help cut down on the expenses from your trip. To save a few extra bucks, check out our tips below.

1. Plan in advance

One of the best things you can do to save money while traveling is to plan ahead. This will give you time to do some research on where to stay, what company to fly with, or which route to travel. You can also take some time to price check other third-party options for booking like Priceline and Expedia.

If you’re planning a vacation for the family or yourself, research the best times of year to travel. Factors like airline ticket pricing and weather can be helpful to know ahead of time to avoid spending a lot of money on a trip that may disappoint.

2. Pack smartly

When it comes to packing, there’s a lot to remember. From clothes to electronics to toiletries, it can be easy to forget to pack the most important items. When it comes to showering and grooming items, take note that small stores located around tourist attractions normally have higher prices due to high demand. Remembering to bring the necessities from home can save you a lot of money. Packing things like new portable razors, toothbrushes, shampoo, and conditioners will save you from purchasing them at the hotel gift shop.

Another smart tip is to be mindful of what clothes you want to bring and how many you can fit. Be selective in your wardrobe and be smart about how you pack, because baggage fees at airports can add up. Try rolling clothes to fit more into your suitcase and limiting your options of footwear so you don’t have to fill many bags on your journey.

3. Try hostels or low-cost hotels

Much like planning ahead to purchase a flight, you should also consider planning ahead to book your lodging. It’s no secret that hotels can set you back a couple of hundred bucks per night and can be a quick way to drain your wallet, especially if you’re going to a touristy location. For a more budgeted stay, especially if you’re traveling overseas, look into hostels, which are shared living spaces with other guests. Not only are these a great way to save some cash, they’re also great places to meet like-minded travelers, learn more about the area you’re staying, and get recommendations on the best things to do while you’re in town.

On the other hand, if you decide to go the hotel route, try to find your cheapest options. Think about how you’re going to use your room. Will you spend the majority of your time there or just mainly be there for sleeping? Also, will you use amenities like a pool area or fitness room that can often increase prices? Keeping all these things in mind is key to getting a good bang for your buck.

4. Look for free activities

If you put your mind to it, there are surely tons of free activities in your destination. Do some research or ask the front desk at your hotel or locals about the best free things to do, as these can often be the most fun and rewarding experiences. Whether it be walking around the city on a self-guided tour or finding a free museum to spend the day, there are definitely tons of great opportunities out there, so don’t be afraid to ask!

5. Be smart with food

As you travel, it can be hard not to spend a lot of money on food. Trying new restaurants and coffee shops is intriguing, but it can cost you a pretty penny. There’s nothing wrong with spending money on meals, however, try implementing habits like packing snacks for when you’re on the go or storing up some food in your hotel room to avoid late-night cravings and unnecessary purchases. If the place you’re staying has a kitchen, that’s even better. It’s all about finding the balance between splurging and snacking.Tips for saving money while traveling

As you begin to think about your travel plans alongside your finances, start prioritizing needs versus wants. The trip you want to have versus the trip you can afford to have may be quite different, but through preparation and organization, you’ll be able to find an enjoyable middle ground.

Posted by Scott Stueber on Feb 25, 2020 9:02:20 AM

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