Iranian state television confirmed in a ticker that the attack came in the form of an “extensive drone operation,” Radio Free Europe reporter Kian Sharifi noted in a post on X. An IDF spokesperson indicated dozens of drones had been launched from Iran, according to Times of Israel reporter Emanuel Fabian.
The attack follows months of escalating tensions in the region, though the two countries have traded attacks for years as part of a long-simmering conflict between the adversaries. Iran threatened to retaliate after Israel struck an Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, on April 1, reportedly killing several high-level Iranian military commanders.
The April strike was significant, Business Insider’s Jake Epstein reported, as it could be considered the first time Israel targeted high-ranking officials at an Iranian government-affiliated site.
“I don’t think either Israel or Iran wants this to escalate into a full-blown war; that’s my assessment,” Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, deputy mayor of Jerusalem, told Business Insider, confirming that dozens of drones had been launched toward Israel.
Hassan-Nahoum added: “But if this goes wrong, this could turn into a world war. So, hopefully they won’t have done too much damage, and we will be able to defend ourselves and not have anybody getting hurt from this. But if a lot of Israelis do get injured or killed, then this will definitely escalate to something much bigger.”
In response to the drones being launched, she said, Israel will be shutting down its airspace beginning at 12:30 a.m. local time for a total of 7 hours and that Israelis have been told to shelter at home in the meantime. Hassan-Nahoum noted that she expects continued American support for Israel in response to the attacks, which the White House confirmed in a statement the country is prepared to provide.
“President Biden is being regularly updated on the situation by his national security team and will meet with them this afternoon at the White House,” NSC spokesperson Adrienne Watson said in a statement. “His team is in constant communication with Israeli officials as well as other partners and allies. This attack is likely to unfold over a number of hours. President Biden has been clear: our support for Israel’s security is ironclad. The United States will stand with the people of Israel and support their defense against these threats from Iran.”
America has provided Israel with roughly $130 billion in military and economic aid since the country’s founding in 1948, according to October information from the State Department.
Since the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas, America’s military support of the country has ratcheted up. However, enthusiasm to continue providing aid has been waning among some lawmakers who have criticized Israel’s scorched-earth response to the attacks, which has left at least 31,184 Palestinians dead and 72,889 injured, per March numbers reported by the United Nations.
This is a breaking news story and will be updated.
We give RuffDawg Crinkits an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.
Design: 4.5/5
Durability: 3.5/5
Entertainment: 5/5
Value: 4.5/5
Finding a way to entertain an active dog that doesn’t involve treats or hours of your time can be difficult. Luckily, with their new Crinkit toys, RuffDawg may have just found a brilliant solution.
Famous for their indestructible toy options, these products from RuffDawg are a little different. They don’t quite stand up to the jaws of the heaviest chewers, but they do provide hours of entertainment to keep your active pup distracted.
Crinkits are unique rubber toys made to hold empty plastic water bottles. They allow dogs the fun of chewing and crunching plastic bottles while protecting their gums and teeth.
My dogs are too small and too old to appreciate the genius behind Crinkits. But luckily, I was able to test them out on my parents’ behemoth Labradors while pet-sitting recently. Bo and Burley, two eighty-pound mega-beasts, were more than happy to put these unique chew toys to the test.
Keep reading to find out how much they liked them (spoiler: a lot!), how well the toys stood up to their jaws, and to see my full RuffDawg Crinkit review.
At a Glance: What We Reviewed
About RuffDawg
Of all the pet companies I’ve reviewed, RuffDawg may have one of the most original origin stories. The company is a division of Jefferson Rubber Works, a family-owned business that’s been making rubber products since 1975.
In 1999, when sales for one of their flat rubber gaskets slowed, they had an innovative idea. They sent the rubber frisbee-like product home with all their factory owners who had dogs. When the workers reported their dogs loved the product, RuffDawg was officially born.
Where Are RuffDawg Products Produced?
RuffDawg is still owned and operated by Jefferson Rubber Works. All of their toys are made in-house at their Worcester, Massachusetts rubber factory.
The rubber used for the toys is BPA and phthalate-free. It’s also FDA-approved and recyclable.
Which Types of Pets Are RuffDawg Toys Best Suited For?
RuffDawg specializes in making highly durable toys for large dogs and veracious chewers. They have a line of products that all come with a lifetime warranty. These are made to be so durable that not even the strongest chewers can destroy them.
Other products from RuffDawg, including their Crinkits, are not guaranteed for life and are meant for less destructive chewers.
Whether your dog has a long history of destroying every toy you buy or just really loves the texture of rubber toys, you’ll be able to find something for them at RuffDawg.
Key Features
Crinkits are a fun and highly interactive toy for low to moderate chewers. Here is a breakdown of the product’s key features.
Material
Like other RuffDawg products, Crinkits are made of durable rubber. This rubber is safe for dogs to chew and provides a much better play option than hard plastic, which can damage teeth.
Where most RuffDawg toys are thick and therefore difficult to penetrate even with sharp canines, Crinkits are fairly thin and flexible. They still have that high-quality rubber feel that will keep mild to moderate chewers from destroying them, but they don’t stand up to hard-core chewers.
Uses
Crinkits have multiple uses, which makes them a highly versatile toy to keep your pup entertained.
With a crinkly, crunchy water bottle inside, this toy provides hours of self-driven entertainment. Dogs can chew on the rubber without damaging their teeth while still enjoying the pleasing sensation of crunching a plastic bottle. Once the bottle is crushed flat, simply replace it with a new one for lasting fun.
The Crinkit also has the perfect shape to be used as a retrieving toy. And because it floats, it can be used to tire out your retriever on land or at the lake.
Sizes
Crinkit comes in two sizes, original and extra-large.
The original size is 5.5 inches long. It fits the stubby water bottles that you can buy at the store for kids’ lunches and those often given away at outdoor events.
This Crinkit size is marketed for small and medium dogs. However, it’s just as large around as the extra-large size, making it suitable only for small dogs that still have a big mouth, such as Corgis and Scotties.
The extra-large Crinkit is 9.5 inches long. It fits standard-sized water bottles.
This size is just as wide as the smaller size, but the extra length gives it more weight. It’s a good option for medium, large, and extra-large dogs.
Both the original and extra-large Crinkits come preloaded with a water bottle so your dog can start having a blast as soon as the package arrives.
Colors
Both Crinkit sizes are available in four bright neon colors:
The bright coloration makes them easy to see when you’re playing fetch in the yard or at the lake. And, let’s be honest, it just makes them that much more fun!
Reviews of the RuffDawg Crinkits We Received
1. Crinkit
This smaller-sized Crinkit is lighter than the extra-large option so smaller dogs can more easily pack it around. It comes in four bright neon colors and provides hours of entertainment for small dogs with big mouths and for medium-sized dogs.
The rubber on this size is just as thick as the larger option. It’s durable enough for mild to medium chewers, but cannot withstand heavy chewers.
Each new Crinkit comes preloaded with a water bottle. Once the bottle is smashed and no longer “crinkly,” it can be replaced with a new one. Simply pull the old water bottle out through the end with the criss-cross opening, and then slide a new empty water bottle inside.
One downside of this size is that it only fits short water bottles. If you don’t typically purchase this kind of bottle, they can be harder to find.
I recommend supervising your pet while they play with this toy as the water bottle will slip out the end once it’s flat enough.
Pros
Lighter for small and medium dogs
More compact
Fun bright colors
Reloadable for hours of fun
Great for fetch too
Cons
Only fits small-size water bottles
Not durable enough for strong chewers
Requires supervision
The extra-large Crinkits are just as wide as the smaller size, but four inches longer. They are big enough to hold a standard water bottle.
These are a little heavier, so are best suited for medium and large dogs. They are made of the same material as the smaller ones, so again, are not well-suited for heavy chewers.
The extra-large Crinkits come in four bright neon colors and are pre-loaded with an empty water bottle. As with the smaller size, the water bottle will fall out the bottom once it has been sufficiently flatted, so I recommend watching your dog while they play with this toy.
These large Crinkits make very good water toys. They float well and are easy to see. The Labs in my family love playing fetch with them when we go to the large pond by our land.
Pros
Good size for large dogs
Fit standard-size water bottle
Great for water fetch
Available in four colors
Reloadable
Cons
Not durable enough for strong chewers
Requires supervision
May be too heavy for smaller dogs
Our Experience With RuffDawg Crinkits
I don’t often get to test out dog toys since both my pups are seniors and not overly playful these days. But when my parents asked me to watch their two massive, teenage Labs, Bo and Burley, while they went on vacation for two weeks, I knew I’d need some new toys to keep them entertained.
I’m happy to report that the Crinkits I got from RuffDawg did not disappoint.
I tried both the extra-large and standard-sized Crinkits on Bo and Burley. They seemed to love both equally. And, since both sizes have a wide circumference, both were a safe fit.
From the moment I handed the Crinkits out, it was chaos—deafening chaos! Bo and Burley just could not stop crunching and crinkling those bottles.
Bo, who prides himself on fitting as many toys as possible in his mouth at all times, was determined to get his jaws around two Crinkits at once. He did eventually get one large one and the end of a small one is his mouth.
While Bo was occupied with this, Burley did what he does best: chew. He managed to rip the end off one of the Crinkits and get the bottle out within about 15 minutes.
I’d assumed this would happen given that these dogs are master chewers and because these rubber toys aren’t overly thick, especially at the ends.
Meanwhile, Bo had managed to flatten one of the smaller bottles and get it out of the rubber shell.
After that, it was supervised play only. Once they stopped crunching and started chewing, the toys went back to the closet.
In hindsight, these two mega beasts probably would have been better off with one of RuffDawg’s “guaranteed for life” toys. Still, I can’t deny how much fun they’ve had playing with their Crinkits. Despite not being the most durable things in the world, they have provided hours of entertainment.
Conclusion
If you have an active dog who loves chewing on water bottles, you have to try the Crinkit toy from RuffDawg. This genius rubber shell gives pups all the pleasure of chewing on plastic bottles but keeps their teeth and gums safe.
While this toy is not as durable as many of RuffDawg’s offerings, it is a great option for mild to moderate chewers. Not only does it provide plenty of entertainment for doggy-only playtime, but it can also be used as a retrieval toy on land and in the water for hours of fun.
Oakland Airport wants what San Francisco has — its name.
The Port of Oakland’s Board of Commissioners decided in a unanimous vote on Thursday to change the name of their airport from “Metropolitan Oakland International Airport” to “San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport.”
Oakland officials argue that because the name change would more accurately represent the airport’s location in the San Francisco Bay, it would increase the airport’s traffic, and in turn, bolster the city’s economy.
The Port of Oakland estimated in an agenda report that the name change, which would not alter the airport’s three-letter code “OAK,” would cost $150,000 to implement.
Port officials in Oakland argued that their airport is just as close, if not closer, to many parts of San Francisco as San Francisco’s SFO is, when traveling via the Bay Area Rapid Transit system.
But, San Francisco officials don’t want to share.
Ahead of Oakland’s Thursday vote, San Francisco’s city attorney David Chiu posted on X, formerly Twitter, that the name change “would cause immense confusion for travelers and infringes on SFO’s trademark.”
“If these plans are not abandoned, SF will take legal action,” he added. Chiu also wrote a letter to the Oakland Port’s Board President and other officials urging them to reconsider.
San Francisco’s mayor, London Breed, also formally voiced her opposition in a letter to Oakland officials, taking the time to throw a bit of shade at OAK.
“We encourage Oakland Airport to follow a similar model to SFO and grow its airport services rather than adding ‘San Francisco’ to its name,” Breed wrote.
“Oakland is a great city with a rich history,” she added. “It does not need the name San Francisco as part of its airport to stand out.”
But Oakland officials say the city actually really does need it.
“I think 30,000 jobs and tax revenue is on the line,” Oakland Port board member Yui Hay Lee said before the vote, according to The Wall Street Journal. “The bottom line is we really have no choice. Doing nothing is not an option.”
The city of Oakland — which has a population of over 400,000 people, according to the US Census Bureau — has faced serious financial setbacks in recent years.
After closing its largest ever budget shortfall, a deficit of about $360 million last summer, the city has since found a $177 million hole in its two-year fiscal plan, the San Francisco Chronicle reported in March.
Bred around Malines, Belgium, the Belgian Malinois get their name from their home city. However, the Belgian Malinois is an individual dog breed in America, where the American Kennel Club recognized them in 1959. Although the breed is similar to the German Shepherd in several ways, these dogs are more fine-boned and have different head shapes.
If you’re planning to get a Belgian Malinois, here’s a guide on their growth rate and weight to help you determine if the dog is the right size for your family and living space.
Belgian Malinois Breed Overview
Image Credit: Best dog photo, Shutterstock
The Belgian Malinois is a friendly and intelligent dog with a life expectancy of 14 to 16 years. Adult males weigh 60 to 80 pounds, while females weigh 40 to 60 pounds.
Belgian Malinois have a wide range of coat colors, from red sable and mahogany to fawn sable and fawn. Since they’re smart and active, Belgian Malinois need extensive exercise and attention to stay healthy and happy. Otherwise, the breed is prone to being problematic and aggressive.
Belgian Malinois are easy to groom and take care of due to their short waterproof coat. You only need to brush their hair occasionally with a rubber grooming mitt. Meanwhile, nails require regular trimming.
Responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions like eye problems, elbow dysplasia, and hip dysplasia. Belgian Malinois are generally healthy and only need annual hip, elbow, and ophthalmologist evaluations.
Belgian Malinois Size and Growth Chart
The average Belgian Malinois male has a height of 24 to 26 inches, whereas female Belgian Malinois grow to be 22 to 24 inches. Note that the size and weight of your dog may differ from average based on their stock and nutrition. The table shows the standard height and weight of Belgian Malinois at different stages of their lives.
Age
Weight Range
Length Range
2 months
6.6–13.2 pounds
10–12 inches
4 months
19.8–26.4 pounds
12–15 inches
6 months
26.4–37.4 pounds
15–18 inches
8 months
35.2–48.5 pounds
18–19 inches
10 months
39.6–55 pounds
19–20 inches
12 months
41.8–61.7 pounds
20–22 inches
14 months
60–80 pounds
24–26 inches
When Does a Belgian Malinois Stop Growing?
Typically, all dogs grow at their pace. Belgian Malinois reach adulthood in 1 to 2 years. Most dogs grow to almost-full height by the age of 10 to 11 months, but some may grow a little bit more till the age of 18 months.
According to PetMD experts, large breed dogs double their size when they are 8 to 12 weeks of age, but their growth slows after that.1 They reach their full height by 18 months.
While Belgian Malinois don’t grow in height after 2 years, they can gain weight. Your dog’s diet should be according to their age because Belgian Malinois are prone to obesity.
Treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. For example, you can give 20 to 30 pieces of kibble or a large biscuit to your dog daily. Or you can skip treats altogether.
Image Credit: BIGANDT.COM, Shutterstock
Factors Affecting the Size of Belgian Malinois
Vets consider many factors to estimate your dog’s size. According to Dr. Walker from PetMD, genetics is the main factor that affects a dog’s growth rate. Vets may have an idea of your Belgian Malinois size predictions based on their breed, but other factors, such as the parents’ size, also come into play. He also says that a puppy’s paws allowing you to estimate their size is a myth.
Dr. Sata Ochoa, a White House Veterinary Hospital vet, further says that growth hormones also determine a dog’s size. A study also showed that a dog’s growth may depend on the time of neutering.
When dogs are neutered before reaching one year of age, it can affect their height. In larger breeds, it’s only a few centimeters, whereas, in smaller ones, the height difference is only a few millimeters.
Ideal Diet for Maintaining a Healthy Weight
The ideal diet for your Belgian Malinois depends on their age and activity level. You can use the feeding chart on your dog’s preferred commercial food as a guide. Check how much the label recommends for your Belgian Malinois’s weight range.
Since Belgian Malinois are active dogs, they have significant exercise needs. Dogs that exercise outdoors need 20 to 40% more food.
Moreover, you should consider your dog’s health. The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine has a scoring chart for the body conditions of dogs and cats. You can request a vet to help you understand your dog’s standing on their chart and what that means for their nutritional needs.
Since pups do not know about portion control, you should not practice ad-lib feeding or free feeding. Instead, consult a vet to calculate the right amount of food to feed your dog. Then, divide it into three portions, such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Image Credit: BoJack, Shutterstock
How to Measure Your Belgian Malinois
The University of Wisconsin–Madison has the following guidelines for measuring your dog’s height:
Stand a measuring stick perpendicular to the floor on a flat surface. The stick must be flat against the wall and not tilted.
Make your Belgian Malinois stand next to this measuring stick. Their front legs should be in the same line as the measuring stick.
Keep your dog standing straight with square hips and shoulders. The legs must be perpendicular to the ground with the feet shoulder-width apart.
Hold your dog’s head in a neutral position and keep them still in one place.
Feel the skin along your dog’s back, at the base of their neck, to find the shoulder blades. Check the measurement at the highest point of your Belgian Malinois’s shoulder blades.
Mark the height on the measuring stick with a pencil.
Conclusion
Their calm demeanor and active lifestyle make Belgian Malinois a great breed for families with kids and other pets. Most Belgian Malinois dogs grow to full height by the age of 18 months, but the actual height and weight of your dog will depend on their genetics and nutrition.
It’s important to have a vet’s assistance in selecting the right diet and nutritional values for your pet. If you’re confused or uncertain about your pet’s dietary needs, always talk to a vet before making any decisions.
Like some other medium-to-large breeds, Belgian Malinois are also prone to becoming obese. Watch your dog’s dietary intake and limit the treats to ensure your pet grows at a healthy rate and stays safe from hip dysplasia.
Designer Gary Card has given London’s LN-CC boutique a redesign that includes a sci-fi-looking wooden tunnel and a room “shaped like the inside of a foot”.
“The question for myself this time was – can I use everything I’ve learned over the last decade to reimagine one of my most recognized projects,” he told Dezeen.
“Each room has a very different concept,” he added. “It’s become part of the tradition now to change the temperature and colour palette with each room and encourage a journey of identity and discovery.”
An octagonal wooden tunnel welcomes visitors
The store is the only physical shop for LN-CC, which is mainly an online business, and is spread across the ground and lower-ground floor of a former tie factory.
Visitors enter via an orange wooden tunnel with an octagonal shape reminiscent of the architecture in director Stanley Kubrick‘s film 2001: A Space Odyssey.
Each room in the store has different colours and materials
It is the third tunnel that Card has designed for the store, following its original orange tunnel and a later white version.
“The tunnel is LN-CC’s icon,” Card explained. “It’s been with us for over a decade now, so it had to be a significant feature.”
“We decided early on to bring it to street level and make the entrance something that had never been seen before as part of the store space,” he added.
“It’s a brand-new design and construction. We’ve brought back the orange from the first tunnel; the white is a nod to the second version from 2014.”
A cobalt-blue room sits on the lower-ground floor
Each of the six rooms in the store has a different feel and different colours, which Card chose together with LN-CC’s buying and creative director Reece Crisp.
“The colours we settled on really amplify what we’re showcasing, the brand’s unique edit,” the designer said.
The store is LN-CC’s only physical space
Among them is the Callisto room, which has a cave-like feel and a design that was influenced by the building’s existing structures.
“In the Callisto room, there was a circular part of a helter-skelter that used to be in the building – this used to be a tie factory and it was in the corner,” Crisp told Dezeen. “When we stripped the space back, we saw this sort of circle and that fed into how we wanted that space to be.”
In the Atrium, Card used tile adhesive to create the structures and patterns on the room’s wide lime-green pillars, which provide shelving for the store’s accessories.
The Atrium room has green pillars decorated with tile adhesive
For LN-CC’s shoe room, known as the Midtarsal, Card drew on the anatomy of the human body to create an undulating, flesh-coloured interior.
“The shoe space, the Midtarsal room, that’s engineering to an incredible degree,” Crisp said. “We love the shape – like the inside of the foot – and how that warps the room.”
Throughout LN-CC, Card used a variety of different materials to bring the rooms to life.
“The space is a juxtaposition of lots of different materials,” he said. “So MDF, perspex, wood and concrete – I sought to take small cues from the original while innovating with a refreshed lens exploring the interplay between texture, colour and materials within the newly imagined rooms.”
The Midtarsal room has undulating shapes in a beige colour
The last room of the store is a club space, which features LED walls that can be used to turn the room into different colours or display messages.
“The club has always been a huge part of LN-CC’s identity, ” Card said. “It was never about selling clothes – the brand was an online business after all – it was about delivering experiences. So we wanted to do something really special with the new club.”
The LN-CC club space is lit by an LED wall
“It was a bit dark and gritty before, which was cool, but we knew we needed to raise the stakes for the latest store design without it losing its edge,” Card added.
“My right-hand man, Richard Wilkins, was the tech wizard for the space who created the lighting and amazing LED wall. The lighting totally transforms the space.”
Some progressives want Sonia Sotomayor to consider retiring from the Supreme Court.
They argue that it’s important to avoid a repeat of what happened with Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
But so far, not one elected Democrat in Congress — including progressives — has joined those calls.
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In recent weeks, progressive figures have grown louder in calling for Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor to consider resigning from the Supreme Court.
Those calls, however, have yet to echo within the halls of Congress — even among lawmakers one might expect to jump on board.
“I don’t think you can tell the first Latina Supreme Court Justice, who’s still in her 60s, when to retire,” said Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna of California. “Some members of Congress are in their 70s and 80s.”
Not even members of the progressive “Squad” are on board with the idea.
“I’m not in favor of telling people when they should retire,” said Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota. “I just think it’s a waste of energy and time to have these silly debates.”
“I haven’t really delved into that conversation much,” said Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York. “So I don’t really have much of a comment on it at the moment.”
Generally, those who want Sotomayor to step down have argued that the 69-year-old justice’s health could falter in the coming years, owing to her type 1 diabetes diagnosis and a Huffington Post report that she has traveled with a medic.
Given the possibility of former President Donald Trump winning in November — or of Republicans retaking the Senate and refusing to confirm another Democratic nominee — the “Retire Sotomayor” crowd is aiming to safeguard against the possibility of 7-2 conservative court.
Hanging over the discussion is the late Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who died in 2020 just months before the end of the Trump administration. Years earlier, Ginsburg had resisted calls to retire during the Obama administration. She was swiftly replaced by conservative Associate Justice Amy Coney Barrett, which laid the groundwork for decisions like the overturning of Roe v. Wade in June 2022.
Yet there’s little indication that Sotomayor isn’t healthy enough to serve, and the arguments in favor of her retirement are built on a fair degree of speculation about her condition.
For now, calls for Sotomayor’s retirement remain limited to some prominent progressives and media figures. Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal has gone the furthest of anyone, telling NBC News recently that Sotomayor “has to weigh the competing factors” and that Democrats “should learn a lesson” from Ginsburg.
In recent days, several other Democratic senators have told reporters that they oppose calls for the justice to retire. But while it’s the Senate that deals with the confirmation of justices, the lower chamber also has some say over the court, too: the House could theoretically move to impeach a justice, if it came to that.
“Taking into account what happened to Ruth Bader Ginsburg, I get it,” said Rep. Jimmy Gomez of California. But the progressive Democrat said that people need to “chill out” about Sotomayor, noting that he was recently at an event with the 94-year-old civil rights activist Dolores Huerta, and that she seemed healthy.
Ironically, Gomez also pointed to Ginsburg — who survived several bouts of cancer and died at age 87 — to support his defense of Sotomayor.
“I’m not concerned,” said Gomez. “How many health issues did Ruth Bader Ginsburg have? And she kept on trucking for years.”
“I think it’s an overreaction to a recent experience on the court with Justice Ginsburg,” said Rep. Chuy Garcia, a progressive Democrat from Illinois, saying that Sotomayor is an “extraordinary Justice” whose “lived experience is very insightful to the court.”
Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota — who waged an entire Democratic presidential primary campaign based on the premise that Joe Biden is too old — said Sotomayor’s situation is a “very different context” than Biden’s.
But Phillips said that if it became clear that Sotomayor was gravely ill, he would have a different opinion.
“Then it becomes an issue of great acute consequence,” said Phillips. “Ruth Bader Ginsburg was ill. We knew she had cancer. We knew she was old.”
At Eminence Organic Skin Care, we truly believe that every day is Earth Day. As we celebrate the greenest month of the year, we’re also celebrating 25 million trees planted to date through our Forests for the Future™ initiative. In addition to planting a tree for every product sold, we also honor our commitment to finding earth-friendly solutions in every aspect of our business. From our green office space in Vancouver, Canada to our sustainable farming practices in Hungary, being green is at the heart of what we do.
If you’ve ever wondered how our company stays environmentally conscious and embraces eco-friendly practices, here’s an overview of what we do to make every day Earth Day.
Eminence Organics Eco-Friendly Initiatives
1. We Plant A Tree For Every Product Sold!
Eminence Organics, in partnership with Trees For The Future, plants a tree for every retail skin care product sold, allowing us to support communities in developing countries. The Forests for the Future™ initiative helps train farmers to build productive and sustainable crops and farms. This helps local communities grow their own food and build sustainable incomes for their families. Our program has resulted in the planting of trees in more than 22 countries around the world as well as the support of countless communities and families.
Astonishingly, a single tree can produce approximately 260 pounds of oxygen per year. Trees help lower air temperature to combat climate change while stabilizing the soil by preventing erosion through their roots. They also contribute to the fertility of land through nitrogen fixation and increasing water penetration.
2. The Green Spa Program
Our Green Spa Program rewards businesses that actively support the green movement and inspires others to do more in their spas and salons. Spa businesses must meet 60% of our green requirements in order to be recognized as an Eminence Organics Green Spa. Some of the requirements include choosing reusable or biodegradable options whenever possible, using power strips in treatment rooms and office areas and turning them off when equipment is not in use. Spas must also establish an in-spa recycling awareness program and use natural, non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning supplies instead of chemical-based products.
To find out more about what we ask from our Green Spas, you can read through our Green Spa Requirements. You can also find a certified Eminence Green Spa near you by using our Spa Locator and filtering our Green Spas only.
3. Proud To Be A Certified B Corporation®
As the first Canadian professional skin care company certified as a B Corporation®, we have met the highest standards for overall social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability. Certified B Corporations are businesses that work toward corporate responsibility that balances profit and purpose. This certification measures a company’s entire social and environmental performance with the B Impact Assessment evaluating how a company’s operations and business model effects its workers, community, environment and customers.
4. Eco-Friendly Packaging: Retail Boxes
Our retail boxes are printed with eco-friendly inks and made from recyclable material while the majority of our marketing materials are made with FSC certified materials. FSC identifies products which are made of 100% virgin material from FSC-certified forests. These labels provide you with an assurance that the product you are buying is made from responsible sources and have been verified to meet FSC’s strict environmental and social standards.
5. Green Company, Green Building
As a growing company, we upsized to a bigger central office to enhance our award-winning service to our Spa Partners. When we expanded our eco-friendly office, we never lost sight of our commitment as a green company. Instead of constructing a new building, we expanded into the existing building next door, thereby reducing our carbon footprint. Looking at our office today, the space makes use of natural light with large windows and multiple skylights for greater energy efficiency. Our floors are covered with carpet tiles made from 60% recycled materials and our office walls redecorated with non-toxic paint with low VOC chemicals. We use energy-efficient appliances, including fridges, dishwashers, microwaves and eight LED TVs. Other solutions include LED bulbs run on eco-friendly timers and motion sensors as well as a sortable waste disposal, including a section for compostable materials.
6. Sustainable Shipping Materials & Sugar Sheet Paper
When it comes to our shipping materials, and even the paper we use in our office, we turn to natural plant sources first. We use a combination of biodegradable packing popcorn and unbleached kraft paper when shipping our products. Our packing popcorn is made of biodegradable potato or corn starch that dissolves into water as non-toxic and non-hazardous waste. In the office, we use sugar sheets in the printers. These edible sheets are made from 100% natural sugar cane fiber residue which helps to preserve forests and reduce greenhouse gas.
7. Eminence Organics Paper Bag
We’re thrilled to let you know about our redesigned Eminence Organics paper bag. In line with our dedication to environmental responsibility, the bag’s handles are crafted from woven paper, ensuring the entire bag is 100% recyclable and biodegradable. Additionally, the bag’s non-tapered design offers greater ease and convenience for you when carrying your products. Traditionally, carrier bags with rope handles utilize cotton or polyester, which hinders recycling efforts due to potential contamination in the recycling chain.
As a company, we’re inspired daily by the creative ways that others take proactive action to make our planet a happier and healthier place. We’re also extremely proud to say that our business partners, loyal Spa Partners and Eminence Organics fans are all doing their part for the green movement.
In what ways do you keep our planet green, healthy and happy? Tell us in the comments below.
Agave nectar (or agave syrup) is a sweeter-than-sugar sweetener derived from the agave plant. Since honey is sometimes recommended for dogs, you might wonder if you can offer Fido a teaspoon or tablespoon of your agave syrup.
While agave syrup isn’t known to be toxic for dogs, it’s not a healthy or necessary addition to their diet. In addition, its plant counterpart is mildly toxic. Read on to learn more about agave and whether you should give it to your pup.
What Is Agave?
Agave is a type of monocot (grass-like flowering plant) native to the hot areas of the Americas and the Caribbean. It is a popular ornamental plant because it is easy to keep alive.
Agave nectar or syrup is a sweetener derived from the sap of agave plants, mainly Agave americana, Agave salmiana, and Agave tequilana. It’s often used as a sugar alternative in cooking and sometimes as a binding agent in foods like breakfast cereal.
Image Credit: ViktoriaIvanets, Shutterstock
Can Dogs Eat Agave Syrup?
The short answer is yes. Dogs can eat agave syrup. There are no toxic components in agave that could harm them. So, if you want to give your dog a lick of agave or use it as a sweetener in homemade dog treats, go for it!
Risks of Giving Agave to Your Dog
While agave syrup isn’t known to be toxic for dogs, it is not a healthy addition to their diet. Because it is primarily sugar, too much in one sitting can cause gastrointestinal upset complete with vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Too much too often can provide extra calories that can lead to weight gain and obesity, both of which have a slew of related health conditions like diabetes and joint disease. Agave syrup isn’t something your dog needs in their diet, and feeding it to them has no health benefits.
If you decide to give your pup a taste, moderation is key. Since it is sweeter than sugar, a little goes a long way.
Image Credit: Lindsay Helms, Shutterstock
Alternative Sweeteners for Dogs
Unlike cats, dogs can taste sweetness, so they might be drawn to sweet treats. Since agave is mostly sugar, are there any alternatives to give to your dog?
Yes, there are some alternative sweeteners you can give to your dog, but first, consider if sweeteners are necessary. Sure, your dog might enjoy lapping up the sweet syrup, but as we mentioned earlier, agave has no nutritional value for dogs.
However, if you want to add a sweetener to a dog treat recipe, here are some alternatives:
A Note About Artificial Sweeteners: The sweeteners listed above are not toxic to dogs, but they may cause gastrointestinal issues. The long-term effects on pets have not been studied. If you choose to use them, it might be safer to stick with natural sweeteners.
Never give your dog xylitol or food products that contain xylitol. Be aware that xylitol sometimes goes by other names (wood sugar, birch sugar, and birch bark extract). It is toxic to dogs and can be fatal.
Frequently Asked Questions
My Dog Drank a Large Amount of Agave Syrup. What Should I Do?
Agave syrup is not toxic, but eating large amounts can still cause some gastrointestinal issues, like diarrhea and vomiting. However, to be on the safe side, contact your veterinarian. Tell them how much you think they consumed and when.
Image Credit; Zontica, Shutterstock
Can Dogs Eat Agave Plants?
Dogs should not be allowed to eat or interact with agave plants. Agave plants are mildly toxic if eaten by dogs. The sap can be irritating to the mucous membranes and gastrointestinal tract lining. If your pup has ingested the plant, they may experience gastrointestinal upset such as diarrhea and vomiting. They may also drool, lick their lips, swallow often, or lose their appetite. You can try flushing your pup’s mouth with cold water to provide relief from the sap irritation.
Additionally, some species of agave plants have needle-sharp spikes on their leaves. If your plant is one of these species, we recommend investigating your pup’s mouth if you suspect they have been gnawing on your agave. If there are any abrasions, call your veterinarian for advice.
Agave is an oxalate plant with sharp, tiny crystals in its leaves and stems. These crystals, known as calcium oxalate crystals, can cause swelling and pain if they touch your dog’s skin or mouth.
Final Thoughts
Agave syrup isn’t toxic, but it’s not a great source of nutrition for your dog, either. We don’t recommend giving your pup any. However, if you feel it necessary, offer a very small portion, as it is extremely sweet. Too much can cause tummy upset and potentially contribute to obesity.
Featured Image Credit: Wirestock Creators, Shutterstock
Giving Old Materials New Life in Your Kitchen (and Beyond)
In recent years, more than ever, the concept of sustainability has gotten significant traction across industries, including home remodeling. As homeowners become more environmentally conscious, there is a rising interest in upcycling, reusing, and thrifting old materials and items to create something new and valuable. In kitchen remodeling, this presents a great opportunity to breathe new life into your space and bring something unique to the table while reducing waste and minimizing your environmental footprint. In this blog, we will explore the art of upcycling, and how you can deliver beautiful, unique designs to your kitchen remodel. Take note of these creative ideas to inspire your project in the kitchen, and in any room throughout your home!
“Nutrition facts” style labels for internet plans are finally a reality.
As of Wednesday, the FCC now requires internet providers to break down costs and services for customers.
The FCC says the move should encourage competition and help consumers take charge of their services.
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If you’ve ever had trouble figuring out exactly what fees your internet provider is charging you and what internet speed you’re actually getting, the FCC has your back.
The Federal Communications Commission is now requiring internet providers to give customers a breakdown of all the costs, fees, and speeds associated with their plan in a simple “nutrition facts” format, just like you might see on the back of a bag of chips.
Beginning on April 10, all internet companies that have more than 100,000 customers must display these labels at every point of sale, both online and in stores, the FCC said in a press release on Wednesday. That includes companies that provide both home, or fixed, internet services, as well as mobile broadband.
Providers with fewer than 100,000 customers have until October to roll out the labels.
And the labels aren’t just designed for new customers — internet service providers must also make them available to current customers in their online account portals and provide the label when a customer asks for it.
Specifically, the labels must include a variety of detailed information, like introductory rates, data allowances, contract length, early termination fees, and more. They also must include links to information about network management practices and privacy policies, the FCC explained.
“Broadband Labels are designed to provide clear, easy-to-understand, and accurate information about the cost and performance of high-speed internet services,” the FCC said in its press release. “The labels are modeled after the FDA nutrition labels and are intended to help consumers comparison shop for the internet service plan that will best meet their needs and budget.”
The labels have been eight years in the making.
The FCC first proposed the nutrition facts-style labels as a voluntary option in 2016, but didn’t mandate them until 2022 following an order from Congress under the 2021 infrastructure law, Reuters reported.
