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  • 12 Inexpensive Items That Will Elevate the Style of Your Kitchen

    12 Inexpensive Items That Will Elevate the Style of Your Kitchen

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    We all want to create a comfortable yet elegant kitchen space, but not everyone has an unlimited budget to do so. While some kitchen renovations require a significant financial investment, these inexpensive items will make your kitchen look better without breaking the bank. With a keen eye for design and a touch of creativity, these inexpensive items and ideas can instantly improve the style and functionality of your kitchen. From clever storage solutions to one-of-a-kind decorative accents, these inexpensive ideas can help elevate your kitchen to new heights.

    There are many kitchen items that can help you improve the appearance of your kitchen while staying within a tight budget. Implementing just a few of these ideas will give your kitchen an exciting new refresh.

    Wooden Accessories

    Wooden Accessories
    Emily McCall

    Displaying wooden accessories in the kitchen, such as cutting boards, storage containers, and wooden utensils, adds warmth, texture, and natural color. Wooden accessories have a timeless and universal appeal that complements a variety of kitchen styles, including farmhouse and rustic, Scandinavian, and minimalist. Some of the most attractive wood varieties are acacia, walnut, olive, teak, cherry, oak, and maple.

    One of the most appealing aspects of these accessories is that they are both functional and decorative. Stack a set of cutting boards along your backsplash so you can quickly access the appropriate size. Hang wooden utensils or arrange them in a decorative container near the stove. Invest in a few artisanal pieces, such as carved bowls and coasters, to display in prominent locations in your kitchen.

    Quality Dish Towels

    Quality Dish Towels
    Smith & Vansant Architects PC

    The humble dish towel is well-known as the kitchen’s workhorse, but it can also be used to improve the appearance and flow of your kitchen. Choose high-quality dish towels made from natural fibers such as cotton, linen, or cotton-linen blends. These fabrics not only effectively absorb moisture, but they also add a touch of understated luxury to your kitchen. Dish towels are not only functional, but they can also add a decorative element to your kitchen. Find dish towels in colors and patterns that complement your kitchen decor. Display them folded on towel racks or draped over oven handles to add visual interest to your kitchen.

    New Cabinet Hardware

    New Cabinet Hardware
    Rikki Snyder

    If replacing your old cabinet doors is not in the budget, consider upgrading them with new hardware. There is such a diverse selection of hardware available that you are sure to find some stunning options that will complement your kitchen. Finishes for hardware include nickel, stainless steel, chrome, brass, gold, and black. Choose between polished and brushed finishes.

    Do not be restricted by the color of the metal finish that already exists in your kitchen. Mixing metals is both common and even encouraged. Keep the metal colors limited to two rather than mixing too many together to make the style of your kitchen more cohesive. If replacing all of the hardware is still out of your price range, spray paint your old hardware with your preferred metal finish to give it a fresh look.

    Indoor Herb Garden

    Indoor Herb Garden
    Kimball Starr Interior Design

    An indoor herb garden can be an excellent addition to any kitchen, bringing both aesthetic and practical benefits. Incorporating herbs and other greenery into your kitchen instantly enlivens the space and makes it feel more connected to nature. You can showcase your herb garden in a variety of containers and arrangements that complement the style of your kitchen. Beyond their decorative appeal, having herbs ready at hand while you are cooking encourages culinary experimentation and adds fresh flavor to your dishes.

    A sunny kitchen window is ideal for your miniature herb garden, but some also grow well in shadier spots. Many herbs are low-maintenance and inexpensive, so you can experiment with herb varieties that work well in your kitchen. Try options such as basil, rosemary, thyme, dill, mint, parsley, sage, chives, and oregano.

    Decorative Lighting

    Decorative Lighting
    Christen Ales Interior Design

    Decorative lighting, such as lighting above an island or a central light fixture, can enhance the ambience and visual appeal of a kitchen. Other options, such as countertop lamps or under-cabinet lighting, can complement a layered light design and allow you to adjust your lighting throughout the day as your requirements change.

    Invest in light fixtures that are compatible with dimmer switches, which give you more control and flexibility in creating different moods and atmospheres in your kitchen. Dimming overhead lights in the evening and relying on lamps and undercabinet lighting will make your kitchen appear more cozy and inviting.

    Area Rug

    Area Rug
    Heidi Caillier Design

    Rugs in the kitchen serve both decorative and practical purposes. They add color and pattern to specific areas to complement the kitchen’s color scheme and style. Rugs are useful for defining specific areas, particularly in large kitchens with multiple zones. A well-chosen rug can provide softness and comfort underfoot, making it easier to stand for long periods of time during meal preparation or cleaning. Look for rugs with a nubby texture and extra layers for added softness. A rug pad underneath will provide even more comfort.

    Select a rug made from a material that is easy to maintain, as it will be subject to high-traffic and potential food disasters. Many rugs are machine washable, while others, such as indoor-outdoor rugs, are easy to spot clean and stain resistant.

    Stoneware Decor

    Stoneware Decor
    J. Bryant Boyd, Design-Build

    Stoneware such as marble, slate, clay, and limestone accessories and decor bring a natural earthiness to the kitchen. Their textured surfaces, organic shapes, and subtle variations in texture add character and depth to a kitchen counter or table, which makes them appear more warm and inviting. Stoneware is versatile and can complement a variety of styles, from rustic to eclectic. Look for a variety of elements where you can swap out your accessories and decor for stoneware, including vases, boxes, canisters, figurines, trays, and dishes.

    Innovative Storage Solutions

    Innovative Storage Solutions
    Shelf Confident

    Storage aids can help you utilize the underused spaces of your kitchen as well as better organize the busiest real-estate in the kitchen. Consider the available space in your kitchen, including the vertical walls, under cabinets, and open floor areas. Install hooks, pegboards, rods, and racks in vertical spaces to hang utensils, mugs, and other small kitchen tools. Use drawer dividers to separate kitchen accessories and gadgets so that you can easily find what you need amidst the clutter. Other storage options include pull-out shelves that fit easily in low cabinets, stackable containers, and rolling carts that fit easily into small corners.

    Glass Containers

    Glass Containers
    Exquisite Kitchen Design

    Your kitchen counters become the resting place for a wide range of items, whether by necessity or design. You can improve the style of your kitchen by making many of these elements more consistent. Glass containers are inexpensive and come in a variety of visually appealing shapes. They can be used to store food, dish soap, oils, vinegars, and spices that you want easily accessible.

    Glass is also durable and easy to clean, making it an excellent long-term storage option. Many containers are dishwasher safe, as well as stain and odor resistant. Find stackable, easy-to-group containers for use on the counter, pantry, and refrigerator.

    Neutral Dishware

    Neutral Dishware
    Andrena Felger / In House Design Co.

    Most kitchens contain a variety of dishware that has been accumulated over the years. Unify your dishware by investing in neutral-colored options and discarding extraneous pieces. Neutral dishware, such as white, ivory, beige, or gray, offers a timeless elegance that never goes out of style. Their simplicity and versatility make them easy to use in both casual and formal settings. Neutral dishes look beautiful displayed on open shelves and inside cabinets. These dish colors create a more cohesive look in your kitchen and can be mixed and matched with a variety of glassware and flatware sets.

    Centerpiece

    Centerpiece
    Hill Farm Furniture Ltd

    Distract from old cabinets and outdated hardware with a striking display of flowers, fruit, or greenery. Adding a centerpiece to your island or kitchen table is an excellent and cost-effective way to improve the look of your kitchen. Look for items with the greatest visual impact, such as a stoneware vase or an artisan wooden bowl, and fill them with flowers or greenery from your yard. Choose fresh fruit that is visually appealing, which you can later enjoy as a quick snack. Other items that make great centerpieces include trays arranged with candles, small potted plants, and decorative figurines.

    New Window Coverings

    New Window Coverings
    Katie Emmons Design

    Window coverings, such as curtains, shades, and blinds, can improve the visual appeal and texture of your kitchen while also providing more control over the amount of light in the room. Before you choose the type and material of window covering, consider the style of your kitchen as well as the amount of light that enters it.

    While curtains, shades, and blinds are the most common window coverings in kitchens, there are other options like cafe curtains, plantation shutters, and valances that can add style and personality to your kitchen. Layering window coverings, such as shades under curtains, will give your kitchen a more personalized look and allow you to adjust the lighting and privacy to a greater extent.

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  • TikTok Partners With AXS for Live Shows

    TikTok Partners With AXS for Live Shows

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    The social media site announced that users in the US, UK, Sweden, and Australia will soon be given access to a feature that allows people to discover and score AXS tickets to events, the company announced in a press release.

    What the company calls Certified Artists will also be able to use the feature to promote and link directly to tickets for their own AXS live shows, the outlet reported.

    “TikTok has become one of the most important global platforms for music content attracting an incredible community of artists and fans.” Marc Ruxin, Chief Strategy Officer for AXS, said in the press release. “By combining the reach and influence of TikTok artists with AXS’ global ticketing platform, the partnership will provide seamless ticket-buying access to some of the world’s most iconic venues, festivals, and tours.”

    The feature is similar to one offered by TikTok and Ticketmaster — whose parent company, Live Nation, could face an antitrust lawsuit by the DOJ over allegations that the company is stifling competition among other ticket sellers, The Wall Street Journal reported.

    The Ticketmaster feature, which launched on TikTok in 2022 and expanded globally in 2023, is another example of the app’s outreach to music artists.

    Music executives are keenly aware of how the app can bring artists from obscurity to fame — or make old hits popular once again, as Business Insider’s Dan Whately reported — and are leaning into TikTok as an influential music marketing tool.

    TikTok has recently drawn the ire of the music industry as well — the social media app and massive record label United Music Group are locked in a battle on how much artists should be paid to have their music on TikTok.

    Meanwhile, TikTok’s fate in the US remains uncertain as lawmakers push for a ban on TikTok should its Chinese parent company ByteDance fail to divest from the app.

    TikTok redirected BI to its press statement, as did AEG, the parent company of AXS.

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  • Does Oil Gritting Actually Help With Clogged Pores?

    Does Oil Gritting Actually Help With Clogged Pores?

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    What is this skin gritting method you’ve seen all over your For You feed and is it legit? Never one to shy away from a skin care trend, I decided to give it a try in hopes of ridding my face of the tiny black dots on my nose and chin once and for all.

    What is Skin Gritting? 

    Skin gritting is a new skin care trend that has gained a lot of traction on social media recently. Also known as “oil gritting,” it is the act of massaging oil into the T-zone for several minutes with the goal of shrinking your pores by coaxing the gunk out of them. Many report seeing and feeling small black fragments (“grits”) on their fingertips after several minutes of rubbing. The practice is often combined with a detoxifying mask, applied and removed between two oil massage sessions. According to Popsugar, “Users on TikTok are saying [sebaceous] filaments will come off into your hands as you’re massaging your face with oil, leading to super-smooth and super-clear skin.” 

    Blackheads Vs. Sebaceous Filaments

    First things first, let’s talk about these black spots, also known as sebaceous filaments. Often confused with blackheads (and vice versa), sebaceous filaments are microscopic “tubes” that allow sebum (the oil produced by the body) to run from the sebaceous glands — where oil is made — to the surface of the skin. This keeps skin hydrated and moisturized and helps give it a smooth, healthy glow. In other words, sebaceous glands are a good thing. But that doesn’t mean you have to like the look of them. Age, skin care habits and the thickness of hair follicles can all contribute to how noticeable they are. 

    According to US Dermatology Partners: “Blackheads are a type of acne. They’re open bumps on the surface of the skin that fill with excess oil and dead skin. In a blackhead, a plug of sebum is at the surface of your skin. The plug prevents oil from traveling through the pore.” Sebaceous filaments, on the other hand, aren’t a type of acne. They don’t have plugs, so oil travels freely to the surface of your skin. Again, a good thing! Sebaceous filaments look like dark spots, but they are generally smaller and they’re flat on the skin and lighter in color than blackheads — more like gray or light brown.

    Since I’m coming clean about my own struggle with these annoying dots, I’ll admit that I thought my sebaceous filaments were blackheads for most of my life. Maybe that explains why all my attempts to “get rid of blackheads” did little to fix the problem.

    Oil Gritting Routine

    Ok, now that we’ve cleared that up, let’s deep dive into this new trend. It can be done in a few ways, but one of the most popular seems to be the “oil, clay, oil method.” Here’s how it goes:

    Step 1: Apply a facial oil or an oil cleanser to the T-zone and rub it in with your fingers for 5 – 15 minutes. 

    Step 2: Apply a mask — usually charcoal and clay-based — to the area and allow it to dry for about 10 minutes. 

    Step 3: Gently remove the mask with a warm, moist cloth and then apply facial oil for a second time to the same area.

    Step 4: Massage the oil in for another 5 – 15 minutes.

    At some point during step 4, according to the #SkinTok brigade, you’ll see and/or feel the tiny black grits coming off onto your fingers. The theory is that these are blackheads or sebaceous filaments being ejected by the pores. Sounds almost too good to be true. 

    Of course, I had to give it a go. The act of simply sandwiching a mask between two sessions of massaging my skin with oil-based products to help bring impurities to the surface sounded easy enough compared to some of the things I’d tried (including metal blackhead removers, pore strips, glue and harsh peels). I’ve been on a decades-long quest to rid my nose and chin of those tiny black dots and have spent more time than I care to admit trying to make them disappear. While I’ve found some temporary fixes in my 20+ years as a beauty junkie (detoxifying masks, physical exfoliants, BHAs and an unforgettable spa facial on vacation), I have yet to find a permanent way to make them less noticeable. 

    I’m an oil cleanser girlie. When I realized in my late teens that oil-based cleansers can be used on oily skin (oil attracts oil), there was no turning back. I like my skin to feel clean but not stripped. I also like my cleanser to remove my makeup in one step. One of my longest relationships has been with oil cleanser. Sure, I’ve dabbled in other textures here and there (it’s my job to test drive the newest skin care formulas), but I always find my way back to my old faithful. Lately, the Stone Crop Cleansing Oil. But more on that later.

    Speaking of an old faithful, I’ve been a loyal fan of charcoal in skin care for decades. A natural detoxifier, this ingredient is very effective in reducing excess oil and impurities from skin, which helps to eliminate buildup and tackle pore congestion — like blackheads. “[Charcoal] may help to unclog pores and improve the overall appearance of your skin,” says Dr. Hooman Khorasani, a quadruple board-certified dermatologic and skin cancer surgeon in New York City. “Activated charcoal has been used for centuries as a toxin-absorbing agent, likely due to its high mass-to-surface-area ratio. In essence, it binds to toxins and prevents them from entering the body.” When used in skin care, charcoal is also thought to have the ability to help draw out impurities. 

    My Skin Gritting Journey: Step-By-Step

    Choose Products 

    It was time to give it a shot. As an employee of Eminence Organic Skin Care, I’m lucky enough to have access to so many amazing products. Since the goal was to eliminate the look of sebaceous filaments on my nose, I decided to double down on the charcoal by using the Charcoal & Black Seed Clarifying Oil for steps one and three, and the Charcoal & Black Seed Clay Masque (which contains mineral-rich illite clay) for step two. Both products also contain black seed, which is packed with antioxidants and has been shown to fight acne and reduce the look of clogged pores. 

    While some charcoal masks can be drying, the velvety Eminence Organics Charcoal & Black Seed Clay Masque hydrates as it balances, absorbs excess oil and minimizes the appearance of pores. Since a blackhead is a blockage or plug at the top of a pore (on the surface or raised slightly above the surface of the skin) and a sebaceous filament is a tiny collection of sebum and dead skin cells around a hair follicle, the charcoal in the mask is a great option for minimizing the appearance of pores.

    Step 1: Apply Oil and Massage #1

    I put three drops of the Charcoal & Black Seed Clarifying Oil onto my fingers and applied it to a clean face. I set the timer for 10 minutes and started gently massaging the oil into my speckled nose and chin. Even with my favorite podcast playing in the background, 10 minutes seemed like a long time. As my fingers started cramping up, the timer went off and I was ready for the next step.

    Step 2: Apply Clay Mask

    I gently wiped my nose and chin with a damp cloth and then applied the Charcoal & Black Seed Masque. It felt fresh and cool, which was nice. Once I had a thin, even layer on my T-zone, I let it sit for 10 minutes. One more wipe with a warm, moist cloth and I was ready for the main event.

    Step 3: Apply Oil And Massage #2

    This was potentially going to be a game-changer for my entire skin care routine. I added three more drops of oil to my nose T-zone and started rubbing again. This time, I checked my magnifying mirror every couple of minutes to see if I noticed any difference in the volume or size of the black dots. I observed that they were actually darker than before and looked no less prominent. I kept going for the full 15 minutes, despite very tired arms and crampy fingers. The things I’ll do for science. About four times in this process I noticed what felt like tiny grains on my fingers. Grits! When I looked down at them, they were in fact tiny black dots, smaller than a grain of sand. Were they sebaceous filaments? Were they the gunk from a blackhead released from my nose? Or were they just dead skin or even remnants of the charcoal mask? I may never know. 

    When the 15 minutes were up, I took a nice, long look in the mirror and was underwhelmed to say the least. The dots appeared darker than when I’d started the process, and there didn’t seem to be fewer of them. When I looked again a couple of hours later, I was pleasantly surprised to see that they were no longer darker and that maybe, just maybe, some of the dots seemed smaller in size and lighter in color than before I’d started.

    The Results

    My takeaway? There may have been a slight improvement in the look of the sebaceous filaments, but nothing to get excited about, especially considering the time and effort I put into the whole ordeal. The products are effective enough on their own, and the method of skin gritting did not seem to amp up their efficacy or my results. 

    While oil gritting is a type of mechanical exfoliation, experts seem to agree that the small grits are most likely just dead skin cells, not necessarily sebaceous filaments. After massaging your skin for an extended amount of time, “you may get a good exfoliation of the skin, [but] it is unlikely to get rid of prominent pores and [the process] also takes longer and [is] more work than just simply double cleansing,” Dr. Edward Chen tells Popsugar.

    I don’t plan to give up my oil cleansing routine, but will stick to the basics moving forward. I love washing my face morning and night with the Stone Crop Cleansing Oil, which removes impurities and makeup without leaving my skin oily. A customer, Akinlove, calls this oil her “holy grail,” saying in an online review: “I am blown away by how good this is. It brightens, gently removes and just makes you feel refreshed. My skin is so calm after. I will purchase this time and time again. Please never stop selling this. I am in love.” Same, girl, same.

    At night I’ll continue to apply the Charcoal & Black Seed Clarifying Oil because I’ve definitely noticed my skin looks more balanced and less oily since I incorporated it into my routine a few weeks ago. And not to worry, 30 seconds of massaging it in is more than enough to get results. I’ll add the Charcoal & Black Seed Clay Masque once or twice a week for that extra help making my pores appear smaller. 

    Can Everyone Try Skin Gritting? 

    While there’s no harm in giving this trend a try in most cases — assuming you have a spare 30 minutes — there are a few skin types that might want to steer clear. Those with sensitive skin or conditions like acne, rosacea or psoriasis should check with a dermatologist to see if skin gritting is right for them. And, according to Healthline, “Frequent massaging that’s too aggressive could irritate the facial skin and lead to micro injuries, inflammatory lesions and even broken capillaries.” So go easy and be gentle if you’re going to give it a try. 

    Skin Gritting: My Final Verdict

    Again, if time is in short supply, I wouldn’t recommend skin gritting since the products work really well with congested pores when used as directed.

    If you’re looking for some help with extractions, your best bet is to visit a Spa Partner who is trained in the delicate procedure and can help target blackheads (while leaving those sebaceous filaments to do their job). A decongestion facial with our Charcoal & Black Seed Professional Desincrustation Gel helps estheticians prepare your skin for extractions by softening and dilating follicles.

    To book a facial with an Eminence Organics Spa Partner, visit our Spa Locator to find the location nearest you.

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  • How Big Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks Get? Size, Diet & Measuring Guide – Dogster

    How Big Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks Get? Size, Diet & Measuring Guide – Dogster

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    The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an excellent family companion. These dogs are big but have a gentle disposition, and they are intelligent, loyal, and protective of their human families. When we say they are big, we’re talking 85 pounds and up to 26 inches for males upon reaching maturity, sometimes more.

    The Rhodesian Ridgeback was bred for big game hunting and guarding. They are powerful and athletic with a strong prey drive and are relatively fast, given their size upon reaching maturity. In this post, we’ll focus on the things that will affect your Rhodesian Ridgeback’s size, along with ideal diets for the breed and how to keep an eye on your Rhodesian Ridgeback’s size and weight.

    Rhodesian Ridgeback Overview

    This breed is also referred to as the African Lion Hound. Natives of South Africa, these dogs became well known for their tracking and baying skills. Interestingly, they were used for hunting lions but never killed one. Instead, they drove the lions to the hunter for the shot.

    The Rhodesian Ridgeback’s history began in the 16th century when Europeans first explored the Cape of Good Hope. They noticed a semi-domesticated dog with hair growing in the opposite direction along the back, hence the name. They have a ridge of hair that grows in the opposite direction from the rest of the coat, running along the back from the shoulders to the hips. Two identical crowns, also called whorls, lie at the beginning of this ridge on opposite sides from each other. This ridge that runs along the back is the Rhodesian Ridgeback’s hallmark.

    The breed was recognized by the AKC in 1955 and became the 112th dog breed admitted into the club. However, the AKC is not the only recognition of these dogs; the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of the United States was formed in 1957 and is dedicated to educating about the breed and encouraging rescue awareness.

    Rhodesian Ridgeback dog standing on grass
    Image Credit: Tatiana Katsai, Shutterstock

    Factors Affecting the Size of a Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Many factors influence the size of the Rhodesian Ridgeback, such as the stage of life (puppy, adolescent, adult), gender, and genetics.

    Regarding gender, females are typically a little smaller than their male counterparts, with their weight reaching 70 pounds and 24 to 26 inches in height. Males in comparison reach 80-90 pounds. Some Rhodesian Ridgebacks may be bigger if both parents are large.

    When Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback Stop Growing?

    Typically, these dogs stop growing at 14 -18 months, but some will continue to fill out and gain muscle up to 2 years of age. As they are a large breed it takes longer to reach their mature adult size than small and medium sized dogs.

    Ideal Diet for Maintaining a Healthy Weight

    As a Rhodesian Ridgeback dog owner, it’s important to feed age-appropriate nutrition for large breeds to help them grow at the right rate and fill out according to their life stage. These dogs are powerful and athletic, and they require a complete and balanced diet comprised of high protein, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

    Good nutrition starts in puppyhood. As Rhodesian Ridgebacks are large breed puppies, they have a genetic propensity for rapid growth and unfortunately can be prone to skeletal abnormalities. Special large breed puppy diets are formulated to regulate calories and calcium and stop them from growing too fast. This reduces the risk of these developmental problems, but they will still reach the same adult size. Speak to your vet for help with choosing the best diet for your dog to keep them at optimal health.

    Image Credit: Zontica, Shutterstock

    Knowing if Your Rhodesian Ridgeback is a Healthy Size

    The height references in this article is when your Rhodesian Ridgeback is measured from the ground to their shoulders.

    Regarding weight, you could hold your Rhodesian Ridgeback and step on a scale at home. Make note of your weight first, then weigh holding your dog. You then subtract your weight from the number of the combined weight. However, this may be a difficult task given how big they get, and you may consider taking your fully-grown Rhodesian Ridgeback to the vet for an official weigh-in.

    As discussed above their weight and size can vary based on genetics and their age and gender so another technique called ‘Body Condition Scoring’  can help you keep an eye on your dog’s weight and shape at home. This is a ‘hands on’ scoring system between 1 and 9. With a score of 4-5 being ideal. It focuses on your dog’s shape and body fat in 3 main areas:

    • When feeling over your dog’s rib cage. You should be able to feel individual ribs without having to press too hard. The ribs should not be readily seen though (this may indicate your dog is underweight)
    • Feel around your dog’s waist. When looking from the top there should be an ‘hourglass’ shape and from the side an upward curve of the tummy.
    • Feel along the spine that runs down the middle of the back and the tops of the hips and shoulders. In a dog at an ideal weight, they will be able to be felt but with a layer of fat/muscle over them.
    Rhodesian Ridgeback dog lying on grass
    Image Credit: Zontica, Shutterstock

    Conclusion

    If you’ve considered owning a Rhodesian Ridgeback, it’s to understand their size upon reaching maturity (around 85 pounds for males, 70 pounds for females) to confirm you have adequate space in your home to share with them.

    These dogs need a large amount of exercise and do not do well with apartment living. It’s best to have a safe, fenced yard for your dog to run in and ensure you have the time to walk your dog daily.

    Featured Image Credit: Osetrik, Shutterstock



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  • V-Zug unveils neutral-toned showroom during Milan design week

    V-Zug unveils neutral-toned showroom during Milan design week

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    Swiss homeware brand V-Zug has opened its inaugural Milan showroom, combining soft hues and natural materials with high-tech appliances, as captured in this video produced by Dezeen.

    Called V-Zug Studio Milan, the showroom was designed by Italian architect and interior designer Elisa Ossino to encapsulate a “poetic simplicity” through blending objects crafted from natural materials with appliances featuring reflective surfaces.


    V-Zug Studio Milan has opened its doors during Milan design week

    The studio showcases V-Zug‘s homeware products and kitchen appliances, such as ovens, cooktops and steamers, which are contrasted by furniture pieces created by Ossino in collaboration with artist Henry Timi.

    According to V-Zug’s global interior art director Gabriel Castelló Pinyon, the open-plan interiors are designed to evoke a “sense of hospitality” for its visitors.

    Artworks by Ossino and Timi feature in the brand's showroom
    V-Zug’s minimal Milan showroom showcases its home appliances

    The space is characterised by a neutral colour palette of soft hues, which create a subtle contrast with the materials incorporated throughout the space, such as sculpted stone and mirrored surfaces.

    The showroom is flooded with ample natural light emanating from large glazings, while an off-white monolithic staircase with large circular openings cuts through the space.

    Kitchen display at V-Zug Studio Milan
    The showroom features sculptural objects and artworks by Ossino and Timi

    Overlooking the Piazza San Marco, the studio marks the company’s flagship showroom located in Italy, following the recent openings of its studios across Germany, Austria and Australia.

    V-Zug Studio Milan is open to visitors from Monday to Friday during this year’s Milan design week.

    V-Zug Studio Milan showroom
    The showroom’s open-plan interiors are defined by a soft colour palette

    In addition to hosting a series of talks throughout the week, V-Zug has also created a sculptural installation titled Time and Matter at Pinacoteca di Brera, which further explores the relationship between human experiences, design and technology.

    See our Milan design week 2024 guide on Dezeen Events Guide for information about the many other exhibitions, installations and talks taking place throughout the week.

    Partnership content

    This video was produced by Dezeen for V-Zug as part of a partnership. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.

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  • NASA Needs Help Retrieving Mars Samples That May Reveal Past Alien Life

    NASA Needs Help Retrieving Mars Samples That May Reveal Past Alien Life

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    The $2.4 billion mission landed the rover in Jezero Crater, the site of an ancient lake. It’s the ideal spot to search for the fossils of Martian microbes that may have existed when the planet was lush with lakes and rivers.

    Perseverance’s main mission is to collect samples of the rock and sediment along the lake bed and the crater rim, in hopes of finding a sign that life once thrived on the red planet. The rover has done a fine job — so far it’s secured 24 samples — but NASA no longer knows how it’s going to bring them to Earth for analysis.


    jezero crater river delta mars perseverance rover landing site

    The remains of an ancient river delta at the edge of Jezero Crater, captured by the ESA’s Mars Express orbiter.



    ESA/DLR/FU-Berlin




    mosaic of photos of light-saber-like sample tubes on the martian surface

    Those aren’t light sabers, they’re Perseverance’s sample tubes, stashed on the Martian surface.

    NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS



    NASA’s original design for the retrieval mission, called Mars Sample Return, has fallen apart. The agency is asking companies to step in and propose better ideas.

    “We are looking at out-of-the-box possibilities that could return the samples earlier and at a lower cost,” Nicola Fox, head of NASA’s Science Mission Directorate, said in a press briefing on Monday. “This is definitely a very ambitious goal. We’re going to need to go after some very innovative new possibilities for design, and certainly leave no stone unturned.”

    NASA’s old plan costs $11 billion and takes too long


    perseverance rover robotic arm holds up golden tube for coring samples against mars plains background

    Perseverance used its sample-collection arm to try coring a Mars rock on August 6, 2021.



    NASA/JPL-Caltech/ASU



    NASA’s original proposal for the Mars Sample Return is “mind-bendingly complicated,” David Parker, director of space exploration at the European Space Agency, said in 2021.

    The idea was to launch two rockets toward Mars, one carrying a lander and one carrying an orbiter.

    The lander would be the largest ever sent to Mars. It would touch down near the stash of samples that Perseverance set up, deploy a rover to fetch the sample tubes, and load them onto a small rocket attached to the lander.


    illustration of mini rocket launching from mars lander

    An illustration shows a concept of how NASA’s Mars Sample Return mission would launch Perseverance’s samples from the surface of Mars.



    NASA/JPL-Caltech



    Then the rocket would launch the samples into Mars orbit, where it would eject them toward the orbiter, which would be the largest spacecraft NASA ever sent to Mars.


    illustration of mars sample return mission shows mini rocket releasing small container into mars orbit

    This illustration shows a concept for a rocket (left) releasing a sample container (right) high above the Martian surface.



    NASA/JPL-Caltech



    The orbiter would have to grab the samples, journey back to Earth, and drop the sample vessel on a fiery plummet to our planet’s surface, where a team would retrieve them.

    The mission plan relied about $4 billion in new technology and a decade of mission design and construction.

    But the projected cost has ballooned to $8 to $11 billion since Perseverance touched down at Jezero Crater. Independent reviews have also concluded that instead of one decade to bring the samples to Earth, it would take two.

    “The bottom line is that $11 billion is too expensive, and not returning samples until 2040 is unacceptably too long,” NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said in the briefing. “It’s the decade of the 2040s that we’re going to be landing astronauts on Mars.”

    At the current price tag, Mars Sample Return would “cannibalize” other NASA missions, Nelson said. So the agency is calling all hands on deck, inside and outside of NASA, to come up with a new plan.

    NASA wants companies with ‘tried-and-true’ technology

    Fox said that NASA needs to see short proposals from companies or laboratories by May 17. Then the agency will choose a few of those competitors to further develop their ideas over a 90-day period, with complete proposals on NASA’s desk by late fall or early winter.

    Some of NASA’s most tried-and-true contractors include Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Boeing, and SpaceX. Startups like Astrobotic and Intuitive Machines are getting their foot in the NASA door through the agency’s new moon program.

    “What we’re hoping is that we will be able to get back to some more traditional tried-and-true architectures,” Fox said. “Anything requiring huge leaps in technology usually, from experience, takes a lot of time.”

    As for the return trip from Mars to Earth, that will be a technological leap no matter what.

    “We’ve never launched from another planet, and that’s actually what makes Mars Sample Return such a challenging and interesting mission because it really is the first of a kind,” Fox said.

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  • How Big Will My Shiba Inu Get? (Growth & Weight Chart) – Dogster

    How Big Will My Shiba Inu Get? (Growth & Weight Chart) – Dogster

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    Bringing home a Shiba Inu puppy is an exciting experience filled with anticipation and curiosity about how they will grow and develop. As a responsible dog owner, you may wonder how big your dog will get. Understanding the growth patterns and expected weight of your Shiba Inu can help you provide appropriate care, plan for their future needs, and ensure their overall well-being. As an overall answer, they will likely grow to be 13–17 inches tall at the withers and weigh 16–24 pounds. Keep reading for an overview of how large the Shiba Inu can get and factors that can affect their growth to help you properly plan for the future.

    Shiba Inu Overview

    The Shiba Inu is a small to medium-sized breed that originated in Japan. They are one of the oldest and smallest native Japanese dog breeds. They have a well-balanced and compact body, foxlike face, small erect ears, and dark, almond-shaped eyes. Their double coat comprises a thick, straight outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat, and you can find them in several colors, including red, sesame, black and tan, and cream. They have an independent nature and can be stubborn but are affectionate and loyal to their family members.

    Shiba Inu dog standing on the road
    Image Credit: OlesyaNickolaeva, Shutterstock

    Shiba Inu Size and Growth Chart

    While it’s important to note that individual Shiba Inus may deviate slightly from these averages, the following growth and weight chart provides a general guideline for estimating the size of this breed as they mature. Remember that genetics, nutrition, and overall health can significantly affect a dog’s size, so your pet might be slightly larger or smaller than what is listed here. However, if your pet seems to deviate significantly, it might be a good idea to have them checked by a vet to ensure that they have no underlying health problems.

    Age (Months) Weight Range (pounds) Height Range (inches)
    3 6–10 5–7
    4 8–13 5–8
    5 10–16 5–9
    6 11–15 5–10
    7 13–18 5–11
    8 13–20 6–12
    9 14–21 6–13
    10 14–22 8–14
    11 15–23 10–16
    12 16–24 13–17

    When Does a Shiba Inu Stop Growing?

    Shiba Inus typically reach their full height and skeletal maturity by age 1. However, their overall physical development, including muscle tone and overall bulk, may continue until they’re 18–24 months old. It’s important to note that individual Shiba Inus may have variations in their growth patterns, and some may reach their full size slightly earlier or later.

    black and tan shiba inu dog standing outdoor
    Image Credit: George Trumpeter, Shutterstock

    Factors Affecting the Size of a Shiba Inu

    1. Genetics

    The most significant factor determining a Shiba Inu’s size is their genetics. The size of their parents and ancestors is crucial in determining how big or small the dog will grow. If the parents are smaller, it’s more likely that the puppies will also be smaller, and the same goes for larger dogs. However, it’s important to note that genetics can be unpredictable, and there can be variations within a single litter.

    2. Nutrition

    Proper nutrition is essential for healthy growth and development. A balanced and high-quality diet tailored to the specific nutritional needs of a growing Shiba Inu can support their optimal growth. Providing appropriate portions and ensuring that they receive all the necessary nutrients can contribute to healthy bone and muscle development while preventing weight gain and obesity.

    shiba inu dog eating from metal bowl
    Image Credit: Master1305, Shutterstock

    3. Health

    The overall health of a Shiba Inu can impact their growth. Health conditions or illnesses that affect their metabolism, absorption of nutrients, or hormone levels can potentially influence their growth rate, so it’s important to have regular veterinary check-ups to monitor their health and address any concerns promptly.

    4. Sex

    Male Shiba Inus tend to be slightly larger than the females. Males generally have a more robust and muscular build, while females may have a slightly lighter frame. However, these differences are usually minimal and hard to notice if the two aren’t next to each other.

    Ideal Diet for Maintaining a Healthy Weight

    Choose a high-quality commercial dog food specifically formulated for your pet’s age. Look for a brand with real meat like chicken or beef listed as the first ingredient, and avoid brands that use artificial colors and preservatives. Portion control is essential for helping your dog maintain a healthy weight, and we recommend scheduled mealtimes instead of free feeding. Limit the number of treats that you provide, and choose healthy options whenever possible. Ensure that your pet has plenty of fresh, clean water to help them stay hydrated and reduce their desire for food.

    Shiba inu dog playing in the garden
    Image Credit: thirawatana phaisalratana, Shutterstock

    How to Measure Your Shiba Inu

    Height Measurement

    • Have a measuring tape or ruler ready, and find a flat surface against a wall where your Shiba Inu can stand comfortably.
    • Gently place your Shiba Inu’s front paws against the wall with their hindquarters straight and level.
    • Measure from the floor to their withers or the highest point of their shoulder.
    • Record the measurement.

    Length Measurement

    • Position your Shiba Inu on their side on a flat surface.
    • Start measuring from the base of their neck, where it meets the shoulders, to the bottom of their tail.
    • Ensure that the measuring tape follows the body’s natural contour without pulling too tightly or leaving it loose.
    • Record the measurement.
    shiba inu dog in a room
    Image Credit: Sergiy Palamarchuk, Shutterstock

    Weight Measurement

    • Use a pet scale to weigh your Shiba Inu. Place them gently on the scale and record the weight.
    • If a pet scale is not accessible, you can use a regular household scale. Weigh yourself first, then weigh yourself while holding your Shiba Inu, and subtract your weight to get their approximate weight.
    • Another option is to visit your veterinarian’s office, where they can accurately measure your Shiba Inu’s weight.

    Conclusion

    Your Shiba Inu will likely grow to be 13–17 inches tall at the withers and weigh 16–24 pounds when fully grown. They usually finish growing after about 1 year but will continue to fill out a bit for another 6 months to 1 year. However, it’s important to remember that individual size can vary based on genetics, health, and other factors, so your dog could be larger or smaller than expected, and the numbers presented here are just a general guideline.

    Featured Image Credit: Quatrox Production, Shutterstock



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  • From Naps at Noon to 3.30 a.m. Workouts

    From Naps at Noon to 3.30 a.m. Workouts

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    Running a company is a stressful job, especially if you’re running one of the biggest firms in the world.

    That high stress can lead to some intense and unconventional daily habits. Here are some of the most unusual routines of CEOs:

    1. Waking up at 3:30 a.m. and launching into a 90-minute workout

    CEOs are known for waking up early: Tim Cook and Richard Branson both rise around 5 a.m.

    But Josh York, the 40-year-old CEO of in-home personal training company Gymguyz, takes it a step further and starts his mornings at 3:29 a.m., he told Fortune.

    After having a cold rinse in the shower, he launches into an hour-and-a-half workout followed by a three-minute ice bath.

    “It’s what makes me superhuman,” he told the outlet.

    2. Bob Iger prefers to work out in a dark room with the TV on mute


    Bob Iger smiles off camera while wearing a suit in front of a black background.

    Disney CEO, Bob Iger.

    Chip Somodevilla via Getty Images



    The CEO of Disney works out first thing in the morning in a darkened room, he says in his Masterclass on ‘Using your time effectively.’

    He keeps a TV on silent during his workout so he can watch it against the backdrop of his own choice of music.

    “It’s my most creative time in many ways,” Iger said.

    3. A teaspoon of Icelandic cod liver oil washed down with black coffee to start the day

    Mikael Berner, CEO of email software company Edison Software, starts his day with a dose of cod liver oil, a source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin D.

    It’s meant to have benefits like promoting heart health and benefiting cells. Experts warn against taking more than one tablespoon daily to avoid consuming too much vitamin A.

    4. Or if you’re Elon Musk, your morning routine includes eating a doughnut


    Elon Musk

    Elon Musk.

    Taylor Hill/Getty Images



    Tesla CEO Elon Musk opts for a sugary start to the day.

    A post on X declared that sugar is poison. Musk replied: “I eat a donut every morning. Still alive.”

    5. Mark Zuckerberg’s diet requires eating 4,000 calories a day


    Mark Zuckerberg training MMA.

    Mark Zuckerberg training MMA.

    Photo by Mark Zuckerberg / Instagram



    The Meta CEO previously said on Threads that he eats roughly 4,000 calories to offset his intensive MMA and jiujitsu training.

    Another popular diet with successful CEOs is only eating within specific time windows — intermittent fasting.

    6. Taking an afternoon nap in the office

    Robin Zeng, whose role as CEO of the world’s largest EV battery manufacturing firm CATL makes him known as China’s “Battery King,” takes a daily nap at noon in the office, according to an interview with the FT.

    Some experts recommend short naps of between 20 and 30 minutes to improve focus and combat fatigue.

    7. Two hours of meditation a day


    Jack Dorsey likes to meditate every morning.

    Jack Dorsey likes to meditate every morning.

    Joe Raedle



    Jack Dorsey, who runs financial services company Block, adhered to a strict wellness schedule that allowed him “just to stay above water,” when he was also CEO of Twitter. Each day involved walking five miles, meditating for two hours, and only eating one meal.

    Dorsey is a big proponent of mediation. For his birthday in 2018, he took part in a 10-day silent Vipassana meditation retreat where he meditated for nearly 17 hours each day

    “It’s extremely painful and demanding physical and mental work,” he said on a thread on Twitter at the time.

    8. “Eyes-open” meditation


    Gwyneth Paltrow speaks at the In goop Health Summit in Los Angeles in 2021.

    Gwyneth Paltrow.

    Rachel Murray/Getty Images for goop



    Another fan of meditation is Gwyneth Paltrow, CEO of wellness brand Goop.

    She advocates “eyes-open” meditation, which involves being mindful at any moment in everyday life.

    “Once you learn how to do eyes-open meditation — something you can literally incorporate at any time — you can be engaged with the world but still very connected to yourself,” said previously told Business Insider. “I rely on it to feel more whole.”

    9. A massage just before midnight

    If reading a book and meditating isn’t relaxing enough, Steven Barlett, a former CEO and founder famed for his Diary of A CEO podcast, calls for an 11 p.m. massage.

    “I often get massages in the evening — it sounds crazy, but usually my masseuse comes over at 11 p.m,” he told The Telegraph.

    10. A more unusual habit among CEOs, Tobias Lutke says he never works later than 5:30 p.m.

    While some CEOs brag about their long hours in the office and spending nights sleeping on the office floor, Shopify CEO Tobias Lutke previously said he never works later than 5:30 p.m.

    “The only times I worked more than 40 hours in a week was when I had the burning desire to do so. I need 8ish hours of sleep a night,” he said in a thread on Twitter, now X.



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  • An Expert Breakdown – Dogster

    An Expert Breakdown – Dogster

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    Our Final Verdict

    We give TrustedHousesitters a rating of 4.83 out of 5 stars.

    Quality: 4.9/5

    Safety: 4.6/5

    Value: 5/5

    Do you find it hard to go away on vacation knowing that your furry friends might not be getting the same care and attention while you’re away? Or maybe you don’t go on vacation at all! I know I find it hard to go away since I have a very nervous rescue dog, and I want him to always feel safe and comfortable. Well, TrustedHousesitters has come up with a solution for those hesitant to leave their pets so they can travel. You create an account, pay a one-time annual fee, and you’re ready to connect with verified, animal-loving pet and house sitters. There’s no need to pay the expensive cost of a pet sitter, all you need to do is provide free lodging so the sitter can travel to you, stay with your pet, and explore the area. While at first, I was a bit skeptical about the idea of letting a stranger stay in my house, the more I learned about the company, the more I was intrigued. As I gathered more information, I started shifting my opinion from thinking I’d never be able to go on vacation again, to wondering how soon I could plan one!

    Dogster_Website dividers_v1_Jan 18 2024-01-TEST

    What Is TrustedHousesitters?

    TrustedHousesitters landing page

    TrustedHousesitters is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a website where you can sign up to find trusted, verified people to stay at your house and watch your pets while you’re away on vacation. It’s a global, pet-loving community that allows your pet to stay comfortably in its typical environment and routine, while you enjoy some stress-free time away. The company was founded in 2010 and has been bringing people together through their love of pets ever since. They offer “vacation pet sitting, with love”, and they back that up by connecting pet owners with pet-loving sitters.

    TrustedHousesitters is set up to be a win-win for everyone. You get someone to care for your pet, your pet gets to stay in its home and routine, and the sitters get a free place to stay in exchange. This allows the sitters to travel, explore a new area, and bond with your furry friend (or non-furry friend; they offer sitting for all different types of pets including dogs, cats, horses, birds, reptiles, fish, and more). Pet parents can travel more comfortably knowing their pets are in good, loving hands.

    TrustedHousesitters could be used by anyone who wants to travel and would prefer that their pet friends stay at home while they are away. Boarding can get expensive and be difficult since you don’t always know what’s going on and how your pet is doing. Paying for a pet sitter can certainly add up quickly, and who wants to ask their friends to do them such a big (and time-consuming) favor? TrustedHousesitters is an awesome alternative.

    While this can work for all sorts of pets, nervous or older pets could especially benefit from the low-stress time at home and one-on-one care. Pets (particularly rescues) are also much happier and more content in their home environments – and having an in-home sitter helps to remove the stress and disruption that taking a pet to a kennel/boarding facility can incur.

    Dogster_Website dividers_v1_Jan 18 2024-01-TEST

    Overview

    TrustedHousesitters pet care selection

    Pricing

    TrustedHousesitters has several different Pet Parent memberships ranging from $149 a year to $299 a year. For the Basic Pet Parent membership priced at $149 annually, you can get unlimited home and pet care from verified sitters. The Standard Pet Parent membership at $229 provides additional extras, such as a Home and Contents Plan, free video calls with vets, and a Money-back Promise. The most expensive membership for the Premium Pet Parent, priced at $299, provides all that, plus 2 global airport lounge passes and a Sit Cancellation Plan. These memberships are all one-time annual fees, which then allow you to travel and connect with pet and house sitters as often or as little as you like.

    What to Expect

    Once you sign up for TrustedHousesitters, you’ll be able to browse the site and look at the different pet sitter profiles. Then, once you’re ready, you can choose your membership plan from the options we’ve listed above. You will then need to create your own home listing as someone looking for a pet sitter. The website will have you share photos of your place, your pets, and a brief description of your home. Then, you’ll get applications from their community of pet-loving sitters who would like to stay at your home and take care of your pets. You can look and see the reviews applicants have received from previous pet-sitting jobs and find the best match. After a few message exchanges, you’ll hop on a video call with your sitter to discuss wants and needs, and then enjoy the peace of mind while you are away.

    TrustedHousesitters - service expectations

    What You Get

    TrustedHousesitters charges an annual fee which then allows for unlimited sits and pet sitters. Once you sign up and pay for whichever membership is right for you, you can travel and get trusted people to come pet sit for you as many times as you go away – there are no hidden costs. Every pet sitter is ID verified and sitters in the US have undergone a background check, so you know they can be trusted. You’re also getting an animal lover who truly cares and wants to connect to make memories instead of getting paid in a typical, more transactional way. It’s a win-win for both sides.

    In Summary

    Pros

    • Worry-free pet and home care
    • One-time annual fee
    • Unlimited sits and sitters
    • Peace of mind when you travel
    • 24/7 access to vet advice (in the Standard and Premium membership)
    • Come home from vacation to happy, healthy pets
    • Pets maintain their routine
    • Affordable compared to alternatives

    Cons

    • Basic membership doesn’t provide as many benefits

    Dogster_Website dividers_v1_Jan 18 2024-01-TEST

    Key Features

    TrustedHousesitters - features

    Background Checked Sitters

    It sounds a little scary to just let anyone into your house to house sit, let alone to pet sit! That’s why TrustedHousesitters makes sure to take the worry out of the equation. They do ID checks for all sitters, have external references for sitters, and make sure their email and phone are verified to be genuine. US-based sitters also undergo a background check. You can also read real reviews left by fellow pet owner members on the site. Their goal is to make sure that all of their members feel “safe, secure, and supported”.

    Home Protection

    It’s hard to let someone you don’t know into your home and not be at least the tiniest bit worried about what could go wrong. That’s why TrustedHousesitters offers a Home and Contents Plan. As long as you have an existing home insurance policy, and are a Standard or Premium Pet Parent member, you will be covered for property damage, theft, and public liability up to $1 million. They say it’s “unlikely you’ll need it but it’s there if you do”, which is a great way to help set your mind at ease.

    24/7 Vet Advice

    To go that extra step to make sure all will be safe and happy while you’re away, TrustedHousesitters also offers a free, 24/7 vet advice line. While Basic pet parent members don’t get access to the Vet Advice Line, their sitters will do so they can also get extra peace of mind when a sit is happening. Knowing that there will be professional backup in case anything goes wrong while you are away is crucial to having a stress-free vacation. While sitters are responsible for monitoring the pets and their well-being during a sit, the vet line could come in handy if a pet becomes more ill or injured than a sitter would be able to help with.

    Dogster_Website dividers_v1_Jan 18 2024-01-TEST

    Is TrustedHousesitters Good Value?

    After researching the brand and reading up on what their different memberships offer, I definitely think TrustedHousesitters is a good value. Hiring someone to come pet sit can be expensive and adds up quickly. It’s not always an affordable option, so TrustedHousesitters is a great alternative. With the unlimited pet and home care they offer, with Home and Contents Plan and access to 24/7 vet advice, I think the Standard Pet Parent membership is a great bang for your buck. It sounds like a steal considering everything that’s included. It’s a one-time annual fee, and then you can travel and use the pet sitters as many times as you need.

    In my opinion, the extra love and attention for your pets is priceless.

    TrustedHousesitters benefits

    Dogster_Website dividers_v1_Jan 18 2024-01-TEST

    FAQ

    Why should my pet stay at home while I’m away?

    Our pets love their routines, and they love their homes. Animals are happier at home when their pet parents travel and can adjust much more easily to a new caretaker than to all new surroundings and stimuli (like they would experience in boarding). 

    What if something happens to my pet while I’m away?

    If your pet becomes ill or injured while you are away, and you have a Standard or Premium membership, you’ll be able to have free 24/7 access to the vet advice line. Sitters (regardless of what membership you have) can also call this line for expert advice from veterinary nurses while on a sit, to make sure the pets get the care that they need.

    What is the Money Back Promise?

    TrustedHousesitters is confident you will be able to find a great sitter and will have an even better experience with them. That’s why they have the Money Back Promise. With the Standard and Premium memberships, if there are no pet-sitting applications to your listing within 14 days of posting, you’ll get your money back.

    How do I get started?

    It’s super easy to get started on TrustedHousesitters. You’ll pick which Pet Parent membership matches your needs best. Once you create your account, you will upload images of your home (and your pet, of course), along with a brief description to create your listing. Then, just wait for applications from interested pet sitters to roll on in.

    TrustedHousesitters country search

    Dogster_Website dividers_v1_Jan 18 2024-01-TEST

    Our Thoughts About TrustedHousesitters

    My pup Elo is my whole world and he absolutely dictates what I do, where I go, and how long I’m gone. And I don’t think that’s a terrible thing! I signed up for a rescue and the one I got happened to be very, very nervous. Elo has a hard time with more chaotic and unpredictable environments, so places like dog daycares and boarding facilities are not an option for him. He loves his routine and daily schedule. (And will let me know if he should have gotten his snack ten minutes ago.) Because of his anxieties and his desire to be in his comfort zone and routine, I haven’t been able to or willing to board him. I know he will be nervous and shut down the entire time he’s at a boarding facility, and how could I possibly enjoy a vacation if I know that’s how it’s going on his end? I’ve had a couple of my friends dog-sit for a day, but Elo comes with a decent amount of instructions. It’s not quite fair to ask for dog-sitting when those friends didn’t necessarily sign up for a dog with VIP needs. And pet sitters can add up so quickly. It didn’t seem like there was any option that would work for me and my special, anxious pup. I’ve had to alternate vacations with my parents so that someone would be around to take care of Elo. For example, we were visiting in England, so both my parents flew over for a week, then my mom came back and swapped with me so I could fly over for the second week.

    I committed to my furry friend that I would keep him happy and healthy, living the best life possible, and if that means my life needs to change a little bit, so be it! Now that sounds extreme to some, but I think a lot of people who might be interested in TrustedHousesitters might feel the same way.

    I’ll be honest, at first, it did sound a little too good to be true. I’m supposed to sign up and pay just one annual fee and never pay the actual sitters? It sounded too good to be true, but the more I’ve learned, the more I love this personal concept of connecting travel and animal lovers. I’ve gotten on board with the idea of having a well-reviewed pet lover and traveler come stay and take care of things while I’m away. I think TrustedHousesitters has thought of and covered just about everything I could wonder or have questions about. I also love that you can message back and forth and have a video call before moving forward with a sitter. I think the more personal aspect of this company is what makes it actually “Trusted”. I’m excited to sign up, see who I can connect with, and start taking some trips so both Elo and I can live our best lives.

    Trusted Housesitters Plans

    Dogster_Website dividers_v1_Jan 18 2024-01-TEST

    Conclusion

    After a deep dive researching TrustedHousesitters, I would absolutely be interested to try it out! It’s a great way to connect two parties who want to travel and have a deep love of pets. It allows pets to stay in the comfort of their own home, for owners to travel worry-free, and for sitters to explore a new area with a new furry (or not so furry) companion. This more personal approach to traveling and pet sitting is truly intriguing; it sounds like wins all around when you sign up for TrustedHousesitters.



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  • Sergio Mannino enlivens Philadelphia pharmacy with mauve and silver

    Sergio Mannino enlivens Philadelphia pharmacy with mauve and silver

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    Brooklyn-based designer Sergio Mannino has chosen a palette of purple and silver for a Philadelphia pharmacy that helps patients affected by the opioid crisis.

    Located in the Philadelphia suburb of Cheltenham, the Angel Care Pharmacy is owned by Olivia Tchanque, who wanted the design of her space to reflect the care and sensitivity offered to her patients.

    Pharmacy waiting room with purple furniture
    Sergio Mannino designed the mauve and chrome seats that populate the waiting area at Angel Care Pharmacy

    Tchanque looked to Sergio Mannino Studio to create an environment that feels distinctive, clean and contemporary.

    The pharmacy was born in part to help deal with the ongoing opioid crisis in the US, and those with addictions to OxyContin and deadly substitute Fentanyl.

    Display shelves in the foreground and a open doorway to another room
    Mannino designed the interiors and branding for the pharmacy

    Its mission revolves around “providing the community with the best medical supplies and care they need”, said Tchanque.

    Mannino was responsible for the interior design and branding for the space, including its angel-wing logo used for signage and across marketing materials.

    Doorway between a silver room and a mauve room
    Once two separate units, the space is divided into retail and prescription areas that are connected by an open doorway

    Once two separate units, the 1,800-square-foot (167-square-metre) pharmacy is divided into retail operations and prescription areas now connected by an open doorway.

    In the retail area, the designer intentionally chose colours that are bold but would not be overbearing.

    Pharmacy windows surrounded by pale purple walls with a grid overlaid
    The pharmacy windows are surrounded by pale purple walls with a grid overlaid

    “Mauve is the colour of balance: it represents tenderness and it’s frequently associated with femininity and motherhood,” said Mannino.

    “White brings a feeling of safety and purity. It represents the absence of things and a sense of relaxation and clarity. Silver has always been associated with the moon, inspiring a feeling of joy and peace.”

    Oak-framed shelving displays products in a mauve room
    Oak-framed shelving from Blu Dot and Hem is used to display products

    Two chairs designed by Mannino with soft purple-upholstered bases, minimal chrome backrests and oak armrests provide a waiting area for patients along with a built-in window seat.

    These are accompanied by two side tables designed by Ettore Sottsass for Kartell, in violet and pink finishes.

    The room is decorated with silver-toned wallpaper on two sides and purple grid pattern on the others.

    Shelving displays along the walls came from Blu Dot, while freestanding units in the centre of the room are by Hem – both crafted from oak.

    Exterior of Angel Care Pharmacy at night
    The pharmacy is located in the Philadelphia suburb of Cheltenham

    The colour palette extends to the minimalist branding, which features mauve hues, grid patterns and contemporary typography.

    At Tchanque’s request, Mannino also introduced compostable vials and bags instead of plastic packaging, since “every year, each local pharmacy in the US fills 60,000 prescriptions on average,” according to the pharmacist.

    Branding and marketing materials for Angel Care Pharmacy
    The branding for the pharmacy follows the same colour palette as the interiors

    Sergio Mannino Studio was established in 2008, and the firm’s early projects included a showroom for footwear brand Kensiegirl and another shoe shop where the walls were covered in interchangeable panels.

    More recently, Mannino completed a pharmacy waiting room in Brooklyn featuring graphic floor tiles, a pigmented cement desk and curved leather chairs.

    The photography is by Sergio Mannino Studio.

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