Fallen cryptocurrency king Sam Bankman-Fried spoke out Thursday in a Manhattan federal courtroom ahead of being sentenced to 25 years behind bars, apologizing to FTX customers who had lost their life savings and the employees who had followed him “across the Earth” before he let them down.
“They all held something really beautiful,” Bankman-Fried said, referring to the fallen cryptocurrency exchange. “They threw themselves into it, and I threw it all away. It haunts me every day.”
Bankman-Fried appeared more subdued than he did during his trial in October. He spoke cautiously, pausing occasionally as he addressed US District Judge Lewis Kaplan.
“My useful life is probably over. It’s probably been over for a while now, from before my arrest,” Bankman-Fried said.
Prior to making his statements, Bankman-Fried listened to impact statements from two people – former FTX customer Sunil Kavuri and Adam M. Moskowitz, an attorney involved in a class action case against Bankman-Fried and other former executives.
“I lived the FTX nightmare every day for two years,” Kavuri said.
Moskowitz, meanwhile, asked the judge to consider Bankman-Fried’s cooperation in the recovery case.
The 32-year-old cofounder of the now-bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange FTX was found guilty on seven counts of wire fraud, money laundering, and conspiracy charges in November after a six-week criminal trial.
“I failed everyone I care about and everything I cared about,” Bankman-Fried told the court before Kaplan sentenced him for what prosecutors described as one of the biggest financial frauds in US history.
Bankman-Fried said his colleagues “watched me throw away everything they had built.”
“They were very let down. I’m sorry about that. I’m sorry about what happened at every stage,” he said.
He added that his pain is less important than that of customers and creditors, noting that it has been “excruciating to watch all of this unfold in slow motion.”
Even so, he said he did not think the story of why customers suffered “has been told or told correctly.”
He again tried to shift the blame for how and why the crypto exchange collapsed, insisting that there are “enough assets” to make customers whole. His attorneys argued that customers suffered “zero” losses.
Customers “could have been paid back” at 2022 prices or current prices, including inflation, Bankman-Fried claimed.
“I’m hopeful and optimistic that that’s finally going to happen,” Bankman-Fried said. “They deserve that… There are enough assets for that. There always have been.”
Kaplan didn’t buy the argument, calling it “speculative” and “misleading.”
He went on to enumerate three instances where Bankman-Fried perjured himself on the stand: when Bankman-Fried said he didn’t know his company was spending FTX customer funds; when he said he didn’t know about the $8 billion liability in the company’s balance sheets; and when he claimed not to have known that repaying customers would require borrowing additional funds.
That list was not exhaustive, Kaplan said, adding that it would not be a “good use of time to articulate” all of Bankman-Fried’s lies on the stand. Bankman-Fried admitted to making mistakes but didn’t show remorse, Kaplan said.
Before handing down Bankman-Fried sentence, Kaplan said he wanted to prevent him from committing more harm, noting that he has previously marketed himself to the media to rebrand his image and version of events at FTX.
“There is a risk that this man will be in a position to do something very bad in the future, and it’s not a trivial risk, not a trivial risk at all,” the judge said, noting that the judgment had to “reflect the seriousness of the crime.”
Kaplan said that the sentence would be “for the purpose of disabling” Bankman-Fried “to the extent that can appropriately be done for a significant period of time.”
Bankman-Fried faced a maximum of 110 years in prison following the collapse of FTX. Prosecutors had asked for a sentence between 40 and 50 years behind bars, comparing him to the notorious late Wall Street Ponzi schemer Bernie Madoff.
Damian Williams, the US attorney for the Southern District of New York, said in a statement after the sentencing that Bankman-Fried “orchestrated one of the largest financial frauds in history, stealing over $8 billion of his customers’ money.”
“His deliberate and ongoing lies demonstrated a brazen disregard for his customers’ expectations and disrespect for the rule of law, all so that he could secretly use his customers’ money to expand his own power and influence,” Williams said.
The sentence given to Bankman-Fried will prevent him from “ever again committing fraud” and also sends an “important message to others who might be tempted to engage in financial crimes that justice will be swift, and the consequences will be severe,” said Williams.
We give Kibou Dog Walking Bag a rating of 4.75 out of 5 stars.
Quality: 5/5
Variety: 5/5
Storage Space: 5/5
Value: 4.5/5
Forgetting things while on a walk with your dog happens to the best of us. I can’t count how many times I’ve run out of training treats and doggy bags, and it slipped my mind to bring extra rolls with me. Now that I have the Kibou Vegan Leather Bag, I feel more at ease when I’m out and about with my dog because it holds all her essential items in one place.
Kibou is a company based in Brooklyn, New York, that designs amazing bags that are both fashionable and functional. The Kibou Vegan Leather Bag is a beautiful, high-quality bag that magically has a ton of storage space without being bulky. It also has a smart design and multiple pockets that will keep everything organized so that you can find exactly what you need without wasting time fishing around for it.
As someone who’s been in the dog walking industry, I can confidently say that this bag is great for both dog walkers and people who frequently spend time outside their house with their dogs. So, if you’re looking for a new dog travel bag, make sure to check out the Kibou Vegan Leather Bag. My review will give you all the information you need to know and what you can expect if you get a Kibou Vegan Leather Bag.
About Kibou
Kibou was founded by two moms, Nell Shapiro and Stephanie Merks. Their search for the perfect outdoor bag for mothers led to the creation of the Kibou Deliberately Minimal Bag. The name “Kibou” was inspired by the phrase, “Keep it by you,” and the Kibou Vegan Leather Bag is certainly a bag that you’ll have by your side at all times.
The Kibou Vegan Leather Bag was designed to be both fashionable and functional. While it was originally intended to hold baby essentials, it quickly became obvious that the bag was also perfect for fur baby parents. It can hold all your basic dog walking items, including extra poop bag rolls, treats, and paw wipes.
While any dog parent would benefit from having a Kibou Vegan Leather Bag, it’ll be especially used by dogs that travel frequently or enjoy outdoor excursions. It has multiple pockets and a smart design that enables you to find what you need right away while you’re out and about with your dog.
Overview
Here’s an overview of what you can expect from the Kibou Vegan Leather Bag.
Pricing
All the Kibou Vegan Leather Bags are priced at $98 and the canvas bags are $89. There is also a smaller belt – great for only the essentials – available for $54-59.
The easiest way to purchase them is through Kibou’s online shop, and shipping is free for all orders over $75. You may be able to find Kibou Vegan Leather Bags through other online retail stores or from one of Kibou’s wholesale distributors. However, there’s no guarantee that these places will always have the Kibou Vigan Leather Bag in stock.
Design and Durability
The Kibou Vegan Leather Bag has a unisex design and currently comes in six colors:
Black
Blush
Brown
Olive
Smoky Indigo
Jade (canvas)
The Mini comes in:
Black Nylon
Brown
Blush Pink Vegan Leather
The Vegan Leather Bags are cruelty-free and made with vegan leather and nylon made of 60% recycled textiles. They also comply with California Prop 65, which means they meet some of the strictest safety standards for excluding harmful or toxic chemicals.
The Vegan Leather Bag can be worn as a hip bag or a cross-shoulder bag. It has an adjustable strap with a minimum length of 31 inches and a maximum length of 46 inches. You can also purchase a separate belt extender, which lengthens the strap up to 66 inches.
Supporting Sustainable Fashion
Kibou is on board with the sustainable fashion movement and is a company that cares for the environment. It makes active choices to reduce its carbon footprint and has implemented several significant sustainable practices in its business model. It minimizes packaging and prefers using reusable materials rather than single-use materials like plastic and paper. Kibou also ships its products in recycled, recyclable, or biodegradable materials and supports carbon-neutral shipping methods.
Specs
Overall Dimensions:
11” W x 6”H x 4” D
Front Pocket Dimensions:
7.5” W x 3.3” H x 1” D
Main Pocket Dimensions:
11” W x 6” H x 3” D (depth tapers down to 1.5”)
Waterproof Pocket Dimensions:
8” W x 6” H
Back Flap Dimensions:
7” W x 4” H
Padded Mat Dimensions:
12” W x 22” H
Belt Length:
31”-46”
Material:
Recycled textiles (vegan leather and nylon)
In Summary
Pros
Smart storage design
Made with durable, sustainable materials
Easy to clean
Can order free belt extender
Cons
Strap may dig into the shoulder
Key Features
Smart Storage
The key highlight of the Kibou Vegan Leather Bag is its smart storage design. It has a total of four pockets. The two front-facing pockets hold your main dog essentials. The outermost pocket is designed to fit your phone and has two credit card sleeves. The main pocket can hold all your dog’s walking accessories, including a small bag of treats, spare doggy bag rolls, and a tennis ball. It also has a keyring to attach your doggy bag dispenser, your keys, or a collapsible water bowl.
The back of the bag also has two pockets. One pocket is lined with waterproof material and can hold about 20 sheets of paw wipes for up to 1 week. The second pocket contains a foldable padded mat. It has a strip of Velcro on it that keeps the pad in place and prevents it from falling out when you unzip the pocket.
Useful Accessories
Along with a smart design, the Kibou Vegan Leather Bag has smart accessories. Each bag comes with a padded mat that you can use to sit on grass and other outdoor surfaces without getting dirty or wet.
Kibou accessories are designed to fit perfectly inside the main pocket of the Vegan Leather Bag and keep everything well-organized inside. Some particularly helpful accessories for dog parents include the Collapsible Travel Dog Bowl and the Stasher Pocket Bag, which holds training treats. Kibou also has a Fur Baby Kit that includes both the previously mentioned items and other dog-walking essentials.
Easy To Clean
Kibou intentionally chose materials for its bags that are both durable and easy to clean. The interior nylon lining is wipeable and stain-resistant, and the exterior vegan leather is also wipeable and durable. Dirt doesn’t stick to the material easily, so you won’t be stuck with spending a ton of time cleaning up your bag after returning from an outdoor excursion.
Is the Kibou Vegan Leather Bag a Good Value?
We do acknowledge that Kibou Vegan Leather Bags are priced higher than your typical dog walking bag or pouch. However, you’ll find that these bags are well worth the investment. They’re made with high-quality material and have a smart and minimalist design. This bag will become your go-to bag for daily walks, travels, and other adventures with your dog. They can withstand the wear and tear and will outlast cheaper dog-walking bags.
FAQ
How do I clean my Kibou Vegan Leather Bag?
Kibou Vegan Leather Bags are designed to be fast and easy to clean so that you can spend more time with your dog. They require minimal maintenance and can be spot-cleaned if they happen to get dirty. Most messes can be cleaned up by using a wet wipe or dish soap and water. Just make sure not to use any harsh cleaning chemicals, as they’ll strip and peel the material.
What is the best way to keep paw wipes wet for longer while they’re in the wipes pocket?
When placed in the wipes pocket, paw wipes can stay wet for about 3 days to 1 week. The length of days will depend on the brand, but you can do some things to preserve them for longer. First, make sure the wipes are lying flat in their stack. Make sure to zip up the wipe pocket as quickly as you can, and be mindful of zipping it up all the way. Keeping your bag in a cool area away from the sun and heat sources can also help keep paw wipes wet for longer.
How long does shipping take with Kibou?
Orders placed within the continental US will ship within 2 business days. It can take between 4-7 business days for your order to arrive after it’s been shipped. Kibou also offers expedited shipping through UPS Second Day Air, and orders can be delivered within 2 business days.
How do I get a free belt extender with my Kibou Vegan Leather Bag?
Kibou offers a free belt extender with the purchase of a Kibou Vegan Leather Bag. Just make sure to include the belt extender in the same order as your bag. The belt extender can be added to your shopping cart for $0.
Our Experience With Kibou Leather Vegan Bag
I had an overall positive experience with using the Kibou Leather Vegan Bag. I have a 9-year-old Cavapoo named Nora, and our list of travel essentials accumulated more items as she’s gotten older. I usually need a bag whenever we go out, and I was searching for one that could hold her dog walking supplies, her medication, and other essentials.
I ordered my bag through Kibou’s online store, and it arrived within the standard shipping timeframe. As someone who’s always looking to shop more consciously, I appreciated Kibou’s minimal packaging. The bag came in a flexible, reusable nylon bag that I knew I’d use for future travels.
The Kibou Vegan Leather Bag itself felt luxurious and durable. The vegan leather was made with high-quality material and didn’t have a cheap or plastic-like feel to it. I liked that the strap was adjustable, and the bag could be worn in multiple ways. One thing I do wish was for the strap to have softer edges or padding because it dug into my shoulder when I had placed heavier items in the bag.
I have to say that I was most impressed by the attention to detail with the Kibou Vegan Leather Bag. This bag was designed to hold a wide variety of items. The front pocket was the perfect size for my phone, and it had sleeves that kept my credit card securely in place.
The main pocket was quite spacious. I was able to fit a bag of treats, a couple of rolls of doggy bags, a tennis ball, my dog’s prescription medication bottle, and my keys, and I still had some room left. The keyring attached to the pocket also turned out to be extremely useful, and I used it to clip either my house keys or my dog’s collapsible water bowl.
I loved that the back pocket was lined with waterproof material so that I could store some paw wipes. My Cavapoo has hair on her paws that are prone to tracking dirt and mud, and I used to have to carry a bulky pack of paw wipes with me whenever we traveled somewhere together. This pocket for wipes cleared up storage space for me and made clean-up so much more convenient for me.
The padded mat was a nice feature, but I honestly didn’t really have a need for it. I ended up taking it out and using the extra storage space for paw wax that I used on my dog for winter walks in the snow.
After testing out the Kibou Vegan Leather Bag, I’d recommend this bag to any dog owner. The minimal design makes it a great accessory for just about anyone, and the pockets keep everything you need in one place and in organized spaces.
Conclusion
The Kibou Vegan Leather Bag is a worthy investment. It’s a high-quality bag that will last a long time and can store most of your dog’s basic travel essentials. Each pocket is thoughtfully designed, and you’ll be surprised by just how much will fit inside them.
Ultimately, this bag will help you stay organized and stress-free so that you can just focus on enjoying the time you spend outdoors with your dog. If anything, you just might find yourself planning more excursions with your dog because traveling becomes much more convenient when you have a Kibou Vegan Leather Bag.
Some people find cleaning therapeutic, while others dread it. If you fall into the latter category, deep cleaning your appliances probably sounds like a nightmarish chore — a group of Family Feud survey panelists would agree.
In true Family Feud style, they asked 100 people, “What’s the hardest kitchen appliance to clean.” Here are the top six answers and some expert tips to make cleaning these appliances less of a hassle.
Stove/Oven (45)
Ovens get caked-on grease and burnt-on food, which is hard to clean off. Deep cleaning an oven requires special cleaners and sometimes serious scrubbing power, so it’s no wonder that Family Feud panelists named the stove and oven the hardest-to-clean appliances.
If you want to make the oven a little less difficult to tackle, here’s what to do: With the oven cool, use a vacuum attachment to suction away any crumbs or debris. Then, use an appropriate oven cleaner, like Easy Off, to break down the gunk. Spray it in the oven, allow it to sit for the proper amount of time, and then wipe it with a sponge. You’ll need to wear rubber gloves and may need to ventilate the room, but the cleaner will do all the heavy work for you.
Blender (16)
Blenders are convenient for various foods, including smoothings, purees, soups, and milkshakes. But their small, hard-to-reach crevices provide the perfect environment for mold growth.
Blenders were voted the second hardest-to-clean kitchen appliances. Make the job easier by following these steps: After blending, fill the carafe halfway with water. Add two drops of your favorite dish soap and mix for two minutes. Then, dump out the soapy water and rinse well. Wipe down the outside of the blender with hot soapy water.
Refrigerator (11)
There are a lot of shelves in the refrigerator, which equals a lot of space for sticky drink spills and food splatters. Cleaning the refrigerator isn’t hard, but is a lot of work, especially for fridges you haven’t cleaned in months.
Keep your refrigerator easy to manage by spot-cleaning whenever you notice a spill. Then, once per month, pull all food out and wipe down the interior with a mixture of half water and half white distilled vinegar. The vinegar will clean and deodorize.
Microwave (10)
In most US households, microwaves are worth their weight in gold. They are a hard-working part of the kitchen, often filled with splatters of pasta sauce, mac n cheese, and leftovers. If not dealt with promptly, food splatters in microwaves turn hard and crusty. But don’t worry; we have a foolproof method for cleaning even the dirtiest microwaves.
Start by filling a microwaveable bowl with one cup of water and three tablespoons of vinegar. Microwave the bowl for five minutes to create steam. Leave the microwave door shut for an additional five minutes so the steam can loosen stuck-on debris. Remove the bowl from the microwave and wipe the interior walls.
Toaster (8)
The toaster ranked as the fifth hardest appliance to clean. While toasters don’t succumb to grease and food splatters like other appliances, they do get filled with bread crumbs, which make their way to the counter.
The easiest way to clean the toaster is to regularly empty the breadcrumb tray. All toasters have removable trays at the bottom. Unplug your toaster, remove the tray, and empty it in the trash. Then, hold the toaster over the trashcan and shake it to dislodge the remaining crumbs. Do this every couple of weeks.
Coffee Maker (7)
Family feud panelists voted the coffee maker as the sixth worst kitchen appliance to clean. And it’s true, these small appliances can build up limescale and sludge, affecting the taste of your morning brew.
Clean your coffee maker by running a combination of half white distilled vinegar and half water through the machine — this method works for both drip coffee makers and Keurigs. To rinse, run water only through the machine three times.
Elon Musk’s brain chip company Neuralink has begun implanting its devices in humans.
Neuralink’s initial goals are to treat neurological conditions like paralysis and blindness.
But Musk has expressed a deeper ambition to use the implants to merge humans with AI.
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Elon Musk’s secretive and futuristic brain-chip company, Neuralink, has begun implanting its devices in human skulls — and like many of Musk’s ventures, the new technology has been met with both fanfare and skepticism.
The US Food and Drug Administration granted Neuralink approval in 2023 to begin testing the implant in humans. The company inserted a chip into its first human patient in January of 2024, and Musk said the early results showed “promising neuron spike detection.”
Musk, who also runs companies like Tesla and SpaceX, named the first product Telepathy, and announced that the product will enable humans to control a phone or computer “just by thinking.”
What does Neuralink’s brain chip do?
Musk and Neuralink have publicly flaunted a variety of goals for the implanted devices, some of which are intended for the near future, while others are long-term ambitions.
Neuralink’s current priority is to treat patients with neurological conditions, such as paralysis and blindness. Initially, in the first human trial, Neuralink’s goal is to help patients with paralyzed limbs control devices like a computer mouse or keyboard with only their thoughts.
Musk has reported some success on this front, saying in February 2024 that Neuralink’s first human patient was able to move a mouse cursor around the screen. Musk said the next near-term goal is for patients to hold a button down with their minds.
In the future, Neuralink aims to restore full mobility to paralyzed patients and sight to blind or visually impaired patients.
“Imagine if Stephen Hawking could communicate faster than a speed typist or auctioneer. That is the goal,” Musk said in January of 2024.
Elon Musk said a near-term goal for Neuralink’s first human clinical trial is for patients to hold down a button using only their minds.
Neuralink/YouTube
But Musk’s ambitions don’t stop with simply treating medical conditions — much like his space-exploration company SpaceX, Musk’s ambitions for Neuralink are to break technological frontiers.
Musk has said he wants Neuralink to ultimately help humans achieve “symbiosis” with artificial intelligence so that they don’t get “left behind” as AI evolves over time.
“In the long term, Neuralink hopes to play a role in AI risk civilizational risk reduction by improving human to AI (and human to human) bandwidth by several orders of magnitude,” Musk said on X, formerly known as Twitter, in 2023.
Musk has also referred to the device as a “Fitbit in your skull,” and floated ideas like using the devices to allow people to save and replay memories.
“The future is going to be weird,” Musk told a crowd in 2020.
Who can get the Neuralink?
Neuralink began recruiting prospective patients in late 2023, shortly after receiving FDA clearance for a human trial. Immediately, thousands of people expressed interest in Neuralink’s brain implant surgery.
But Neuralink’s application comes with an eligibility screener — not just anyone can sign up. Patients must be legal adults, they must hold US citizenship or permanent resident status, and they must have one of the following conditions: “Quadriplegia, paraplegia, visual impairment or blindness, aphasia or the inability to speak, hearing impairment or deafness, and/or major limb amputation (affecting above or below the elbow and/or above or below the knee).”
Neuralink has said it’s specifically searching for individuals with quadriplegia, at least 22 years old, and who have a “consistent and reliable caregiver.” The company has also ruled out anyone with active implanted devices like pacemakers, anyone with ongoing conditions that require MRIs, and people with a history of seizures.
Applicants selected to participate in Neuralink trials will have to participate in a roughly 18-month-long primary study, involving nine at-home and in-person visits, and two weekly hour-long research sessions. The trials also involve long-term follow-up visits over a period of five years.
How ethical is Neuralink?
Neuralink has been heavily criticized for its animal testing practices, with animal-rights groups complaining that test monkeys endured “extreme suffering.”
Like several of Musk’s companies, Neuralink has come under ethical scrutiny — both for its existing research practices and potential moral quandaries that could unfold in the future as the technology advances.
Critics have frequently assailed Neuralink’s missed projections for human trials. Musk had initially promised in 2019 that human trials would begin the following year, but it wasn’t until 2024 that the first patient received the brain chip.
Neuralink’s animal testing practices have also made headlines in recent years. In 2022, an animal-rights group obtained more than 700 pages of public records indicating that monkeys used in Neuralink research underwent “extreme suffering as a result of inadequate animal care and highly invasive experimental head implants during the experiments.”
Neuralink rejected allegations that monkeys were mistreated and said in a statement that the company is “committed to working with animals in the most humane and ethical way possible.” Musk later said the test monkeys live in “monkey paradise.”
The FDA rejected Neuralink’s bid initially to launch human trials, citing concerns that the implant would overheat, move around in the brain, or even damage brain tissue. Neuralink apparently resolved those concerns. However, because, in the spring of 2023, the FDA approved Neuralink’s first human trials.
What are the risks of Neuralink?
In addition to typical risks of neurological surgery, scientists have also questioned the unintended consequences that could arise from merging the human brain with computers.
In recent years, even the very concept of a brain chip has come under ethical scrutiny. Neuralink is far from the only company building and testing what’s known as a brain-computer interface — meaning, a device that allows a brain to communicate with a computer — and researchers have found both benefits and downsides for patients who have received BCIs for medical purposes.
Researchers have reported that while many patients undoubtedly benefit from the technology, others have experienced feelings of being unable to recognize themselves or losing their sense of self — a phenomenon known as “estrangement.”
Bridging the gap between a computer and a human brain also poses ethical quandaries about privacy and security. Experts have speculated that computers could access, decipher, and store brain activity, leaving that data vulnerable to hackers.
Musk has appeared largely unconcerned, however, and has pledged several times to implant a Neuralink device in his own brain.
How successful have Neuralink implantations been?
The Neuralink device in Gertrude’s brain transmitted data live during the demo as she snuffled around.
Neuralink/YouTube
Though Neuralink’s brain chip has only been implanted in one human, the company has tested it in a number of pigs and monkeys.
In 2020, Neuralink revealed it had implanted a chip in the skull of a pig named Gertrude. The company released footage showing that the chip could record neural activity, and could accurately predict the pig’s limb positions as she walked on a treadmill.
Neuralink released further footage in 2021 showing a monkey playing video games with its mind. Neuroscientists were unimpressed, telling Business Insider that Neuralink is far from the first to do so — scientists have used neural interfaces to allow monkeys to control computer cursors since 2002.
Owning a dog can be an absolute blessing for you and your family. However, those sentiments might not be shared by your furniture.
Dogs are notorious for ruining furniture—whether it’s intentional or not. But that doesn’t mean your pup has to stay outside. But you might want to consider investing in some furniture made out of a dog-friendly fabric.
Not all furniture fabric can hold up to the rigors of owning a pet, but there are plenty of great options available. But before we get into them, let’s take a look at some of the ways your pooch might tear up your couch.
The 7 Best Couch Materials and Fabrics for Dogs
1. Real Leather
Image Credit: StockSnap, Pixabay
Take a poll of veteran pet owners and ask them, “What’s the best furniture material to have when owning a dog?” Genuine leather will more than likely be the number one answer. And there’s no surprise there. Leather is an excellent choice for several reasons.
First, it’s durable. No matter how hard you might try, there are going to be times where your pup is going to jump up onto the couch. With other materials, a sharp claw might puncture straight through. However, you won’t have that problem with leather.
Next, their claws aren’t going to get caught in the material and cause rips. That’s because leather is a solid piece of material. There are no gaps in the weave for their nails to get caught in. And if they do leave any scratches on the couch, those will help to distress the leather and give it that worn-in feel—one that many people often pay top dollar for.
Leather is also super easy to clean. It’s not like you need to take it to the dry cleaner. Simply wipe it clean with a damp cloth, and you’re ready to go.
The biggest downside to leather is the price. Often, leather furniture comes with a hefty price tag. But consider it an investment. It’s extremely pet-friendly, and you won’t have to replace your couch nearly as quickly. In fact, your leather furniture may serve you well for decades to come.
Pros
Very sturdy
Solid piece of fabric
Easy to clean
Scratches can actually make it more attractive
Lasts a very long time
Cons
Expensive
Can get very hot in warmer months
2. Outdoor Acrylic Fabrics
Image Credit: vfhnb12, Shutterstock
If you’re shopping for furniture to use indoors with a pet, you may want to consider outdoor seating. Furniture designed for outdoor purposes can hold up to heavy rain, sleet, snow, and everything else the elements can throw at you. So, it’ll be good enough for your pooch.
And don’t be worried about style and selection. There are tons of awesome options that’ll have you convinced that outdoor furniture isn’t just for your patio or sundeck anymore. This Polaris Garden Set will look incredible indoor or outdoors. And it’s made of durable rattan that your pup can climb all over without fear of damaging it.
You can also typically find outdoor furniture at a much cheaper cost than its indoor counterpart. So, if you’re looking to stretch your budget when purchasing new furniture, you might want to explore the “ins” of outdoor furniture.
There’s one thing you should be selective about when shopping for outdoor furniture, and that’s the cushioning itself. While the cushions are easy enough to clean, they may be too porous or lightweight for your comfort. If you require extra support, be sure to check out some other pet-friendly options.
Pros
Relatively inexpensive
Very easy to deep clean
Tons of different styles
Cons
Using outdoor furniture indoors may not appeal to you
Very lightweight with minimal support
3. Denim
Image Credit: Pxfuel
Denim might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to furniture. However, it shouldn’t slip your mind. Aside from making tough, durable jeans, it can also be crafted into comfy pet-friendly furniture. Denim furniture can also add a great youthful, casual feel to any living space that it’s set in.
But what makes it so great for pets is the same reason why jeans are the preferred choice of pants for work crews across the globe: it’s super durable and protective. It’s almost as tough as genuine leather itself. However, it’s much more breathable. That’s because, while it is woven together, denim’s weave is extremely tight-fitting. It allows air to flow through and keeps things from pushing through, such as your dog’s teeth or nails.
Denim furniture does have a pretty glaring pitfall though; it’s a pretty niche fabric. This means it might be difficult to find denim furniture that you like and even more difficult to find stuff that matches your existing décor. However, if you’re doing a grand remodel, denim can be a uniquely wonderful choice for any dog-lover’s home.
Pros
Tough and long-lasting
Uniquely casual design
Tightly woven
Cons
Niche fabric that’s difficult to find
May not fit your decor
4. Canvas
Image Credit: spectagal, Pixabay
Canvas isn’t just for painting or ship sails. It makes excellent furniture fabric. And that’s because canvas is another extremely durable, yet comfy option. It’s quite similar to denim in that it’s a very durable choice that’s tightly woven together. It also has a very natural feel to it, so there’ll be a pleasant roughness to it.
Canvas furniture can be difficult to find as manufacturers prefer to work in other fabric choices. However, you can have one custom-built for a premium. For a natural feeling fabric, it doesn’t get much better. It’s got the feel of linen without the wrinkling, the toughness of denim without the limited color palette, and the ease of cleaning that leather offers.
Pros
Tough and sturdy
Tightly woven
Natural feel
Easy to clean
5. Tight Weave Twill
Image Credit: Pxhere
Twill isn’t exactly a fabric, but more of a style of weave. Normally consisting of a cotton or polyester-cotton blend, twill can come in many different thread counts. And it’s one of the most popular furniture coverings around. Finding a twill couch or sofa won’t be difficult at all.
However, it might take a bit of shopping around to find the right thread count and weave. Twill comes in many different patterns and styles—both textured and printed. The trick here is to look for a textured pattern. Textured twill patterns are often woven much more tightly than standard printed, and, therefore, will hold up better to the rough demands placed on them by your dog’s nails.
Herringbone, houndstooth (go figure), and serge weaves are just a few of the better twill patterns to choose from when selecting pet-friendly furniture.
Pros
Super easy to find
Tons of different designs
Cons
Harder to clean
Will still tear faster than other materials like leather or canvas
6. Microfiber
Image Credit: david47, Pixabay
If you love the look of leather but aren’t too keen on its price tag, you might want to look into microfiber. It’s specifically designed to mimic the look of leather (or suede) but has added benefits.
Microfiber couches are often stain-resistant unlike some leathers and can be even easier to clean! They are easily wiped down like leather; however, they often have removable seat and cushion covers that are machine washable. They’re also much softer than leather if you’re looking for a more inviting couch.
This is an excellent choice for any dog parent looking for new furniture and comes at much less of a burden on your wallet. The one thing about microfiber couches, though, is that they’re just not as durable as the real deal. There’s a good chance they’ll need replacing long before your genuine leather furniture does.
Pros
Very common
Inexpensive
Easily cleaned
Cons
Not as durable as other fabrics
Can still be ripped or torn
7. Protected Fabrics—Crypton, Scotchgard
If you’re not too worried about rips and tears but pet stains, you’ve got a couple of other options in protected fabrics. These are either materials specifically designed to minimize stains and odors, or protective sprays layered onto your existing couch as a barrier.
For example, many hotels and cruise ships use furniture made with Crypton. Crypton fabric is a patented technology that renders a piece of furniture stain-proof and prohibits the growth of unwanted bacteria.
But if you’re not wanting to go out and purchase Crypton fabric, there’s another simple solution. Pick up a can or two of Scotchgard, or any other upholstery protector. This stuff is great for preventing stains, repelling liquids, and blocking unwanted pet odors. Using Scotchgard is a temporary solution; however, it is much cheaper than purchasing new furniture.
Pros
Very cheap alternative
Prohibits the growth of bacteria
Cons
Normally not too many attractive stylings
Using a protective spray will require constant reapplication over time
BONUS: Slipcovers
Another super cheap, but effective way to protect your furniture from your dogs is by using slipcovers. Slipcovers are similar to fitted sheets on your bed, but they’re for your sofas and chairs.
They’re often extremely inexpensive and perfect for anyone on a tight budget. Slipcovers can also come in a wide array of patterns and colors making them perfect for almost every room in your house. Plus, they’re machine washable so they’re very easy to clean.
How Dogs Destroy Furniture
Dogs don’t just destroy furniture for malicious reasons. It’s not like they don’t like the color or décor and decide the house needs a remodel. Most furniture destruction caused by dogs is the result of an accident.
Image By: Anna Hoychuck, Shutterstock
Claw Marks
Your furniture may receive scratches or tears from their nails as they jump on or off. Fortunately, this is the easiest cause to prevent. All you need to do is keep up with your dog’s grooming and keep their claws trimmed. This will prevent them from snagging. Another way is to invest in a couch made of tightly woven fabric.
Relieving Themselves
A dog’s nails aren’t the only force to be reckoned with though. Your pup may accidentally relieve themselves on the couch. Maybe a younger, excitable pup just loses control of their bladder. Or your older dog is beginning to have incontinence issues. Either way, it’s going to need to be cleaned up. Some furniture types make this super easy. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth should take care of things.
Anxious Energy
The biggest nightmare when it comes to your dog destroying furniture is having them completely rip apart your couch or sofa. This is usually done while you’re away and your dog is suffering from separation anxiety. To prevent this, you should begin practicing proper egress and ingress when leaving the house at an early age.
Image By: Yuri Kravchenko, Shutterstock
What Fabrics to Avoid With Dogs
Not every fabric out there is a great choice for dog owners. Some materials are very easily ruined and need to be avoided if possible.
Tweed
Tweed may provide a nice rustic look to your home, but it’s far from ideal for pets because it’s rather loosely woven together. This makes it much easier for your pup’s nails to snag and begin unraveling your couch. Plus, the loose weave helps to trap in hair and dust, which can make your furniture smell pretty stinky.
Suede
Suede is like leather’s softer, gentler cousin, but it has no place around dogs. Although it’s pretty durable, it attracts and locks in water spots. Whether it’s drool, pee, or mud, any wet spots are going to become highly visible and extremely difficult to clean.
Silk
Silk is one of the finest materials you can craft furniture out of. And unfortunately, it’s very high maintenance even for those without pets. Add a dog into the mix, and it’s nearly impossible to keep pristine. Silk is a very thin and loosely woven fabric that will tear very easily. It also stains easily and requires a professional cleaner. It’s just best to skip the silk altogether if you’re a pup parent.
Velvet
Velvet is another very high-maintenance furniture material. While it isn’t as thin or loosely woven as silk, velvet comes with its own troubles. It’s an absolute magnet for dog hair. Even if you have a very low shedding dog breed, you’ll still find enough hair on your velvet sofa to build another dog. And it’s also very absorbent when it comes to ripe, unwanted smells. Couple that with the need for a professional cleaner, and you’ll see most dog owners avoiding velvet furniture.
Image By: Julia Zavalishina, Shutterstock
Final Thoughts
Owning a dog doesn’t automatically spell out destruction for your furniture. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t happen. By choosing the right furniture or protective measure against pet stains and damages, your dog and furniture can live peacefully together.
Just remember: tightly, woven fabrics and leather are your friends. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try bringing that patio furniture inside.
A bedroom incorporating a bathtub and a window bench is one of several versatile spaces architect Ulli Heckmann created when renovating this compact apartment in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
Heckmann and his partner, the designer Nienke Bongers, bought the apartment in the Delfshaven neighbourhood in 2020 with the aim of refurbishing it to suit their personal tastes.
Multipurpose rooms were used to optimise space at Ulli Heckmann’s Rotterdam apartment
The 100-square-metre property is spread across the ground floor and basement of a brick apartment building dating from 1935 that stretches along a dike on the river Schie.
Previous renovations in the 1980s had stripped away all of the interior’s original features, so the couple decided to completely gut the spaces and rebuild them using a modern and affordable material palette.
The open-plan kitchen and living area receive daylight from the garden
The existing layout did not make the best use of the garden access, so Heckmann moved the bedrooms upstairs and created a large living space below with direct access to the outdoors.
“The original downstairs plan showed one room facing the garden and one towards the street, which was quite gloomy and dark,” the architect told Dezeen.
“Since the new downstairs is basically mono-orientated, an open layout with the kitchen cupboard as a room divider seemed the best solution in terms of space with an option for privacy.”
Heckmann completely rebuilt the interior spaces using affordable materials. Photo is by Yuta Sawamura
The largely open-plan configuration creates a space for cooking, eating and socialising that receives plenty of daylight from the large windows at one end.
Freestanding cupboards screen a small private space that Heckmann explained can be used for “reading a book, inviting friends to stay over or simply drying the laundry without putting it in the middle of the living room.”
The kitchen is divided by a wooden cupboard unit for privacy. Photo is by Yuta Sawamura
Throughout the property, built-in storage helps to optimise and organise space, allowing the interior to be used in different ways at different times. Examples include a hidden desk in the children’s bedroom and a window bench in the main bedroom.
“Most of the rooms are not limited to only one purpose throughout the day and night,” said Heckmann, “which helps tremendously for the use of the space – especially as a family.”
The layout of the upper floor is more compartmentalised than the basement level; however, a full-height mirrored door at the end of the hall can be left open to ensure the spaces feel connected.
The two bedrooms at either end of the plan are separated by a walk-in wardrobe and a shower room hidden behind cupboard-like doors.
The main bedroom integrates a bathtub that can be hidden behind a curtain
In addition to the bed and window bench, the main bedroom contains a bathtub set on wooden blocks that can be screened off using a curtain.
“The need to create multifunctional spaces is one of the reasons why we decided to have the bathtub in the bedroom,” Heckmann explained. “Also, we quite like that it becomes an object in our daily life instead of hiding it away.”
Most of the furniture was built by Heckmann and Bongers with stained or dyed plywood and MDF
The couple had wanted to use natural materials where possible to completely revamp the interior, but the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic caused prices to soar and subsequent lockdowns made commissioning specialist trades much more difficult.
Heckmann and Bongers therefore designed and built most of the furniture themselves, using plywood or MDF that they stained or dyed to give the materials a more unique finish.
The bedroom shelf and the hall cupboards are made from eucalyptus plywood tinted with an earl-grey mixture, while the bedhead is MDF with a hardwax finish.
The bedhead unit is made from MDF with a warm-toned hardwax finish
Lime plaster was used on the walls throughout the apartment. The downstairs spaces were left raw and natural, while the bedroom has green pigment added to give it a subtle hint of colour.
For the kitchen, Heckmann used MDF boards with oak veneer and a countertop with a dark Forbo linoleum surface. The cupboard under the stairs features an oak frame surrounding polycarbonate panels, while the staircase podium is made from painted MDF.
A hidden desk in the children’s bedroom helps to optimise space usage
Ulli Heckmann completed his Diploma studies at the Technical University of Darmstadt, Germany, in 2006 and worked for several years for agencies in Germany and France, including Maison Edouard François.
He founded his architecture and design studio in Paris in 2013 and now works on projects across Europe, ranging from object and interior design to private housing and architectural competitions.
One of the great American pastimes — using your credit card to accumulate points — could be about to change.
The crux of the issue is interchange fees, which networks like Visa and Mastercard charge merchants for processing their transactions. Under the agreement, which still needs to be approved by the courts, these fees would be lowered and capped for five years.
So what does that have to do with your sacred stash of points?
Even though the networks set interchange fees, the card issuers (banks like JPMorgan Chase and Bank of America) get the lion’s share of the revenue. Last year the biggest US banks took home $31 billion of interchange and merchant processing income, according to Bloomberg.
Again, you ask, what does that have to do with my points?
Well, a good chunk of that revenue is spent by banks encouraging you to use their fancy cards. And the best way to do that is via points and rewards. Cards with better rewards and cash-back economics typically charge higher interchange fees.
Which gets us back to Tuesday’s settlement. Merchants have to accept all types of credit cards from Visa and Mastercard under an “honor all cards” rule. But now, they’d be able to charge consumers more depending on the type of card they’re using.
Suddenly, the cash-back you get from your Chase Sapphire Reserve doesn’t seem as enticing when paying a premium on the bacon-egg-and-cheese sandwich at your local bodega.
It’s not likely that banks will completely punt on rewards. David Morris, principal analyst, payments at eMarketer, said the card programs are too important to banks to stop engaging those customers.
“They can make allowances of their own in terms of the kinds of rewards, adjusting the rewards accordingly. These are highly profitable programs, so there is some flexibility here for the card companies to be able to make some adjustments along those lines,” he said.
Morris acknowledged that some changes in consumer behavior might occur as a result, “but that would discount the levers that these credit card issuers do have to be able to ensure that they are providing the card value that premium cardholders expect.”
Merchants, especially retailers, don’t seem pleased with the settlement. The National Retail Federation, which represents chains from big box stores to supermarkets, said it “amounts to pennies on the dollar” toward their costs. And the Retail Industry Leaders Association called it “a mere drop in the bucket.”
Both trade groups expressed support on Tuesday for the Credit Card Competition Act before Congress, which would require large banks to offer multiple payment networks for processing transactions through their credit cards.
While many small businesses already charge an extra fee for those paying with a credit card, David Silverman, a senior director at Fitch Ratings, said most major retailers won’t pass the interchange costs directly to consumers.
“These retailers have been absorbing costs across any number of cost functions,” such as labor, he said.
It’s not yet clear what impact the settlement will have. The agreement hasn’t yet been approved, and time will tell how merchants and banks handle the changes.
But the points game can be one of fine margins, and a change to interchange fees could have ripple effects for rewards programs.
Don’t be surprised if it starts taking a lot longer to rack up the points required for your next getaway.
When it comes to moisturizing the face, there’s nothing hotter than facial oils. When formulated for skin care, these magical liquids work super hard to add moisture to your skin and provide nutrients. Here are a few ways that facial oils benefit your skin and help you achieve a glowing and hydrated face.
The Benefits Of Face Oils
1. Hydrating Effects
Oils are the richest products, high in concentration of beneficial, antioxidant-rich lipids that work to restore the skin’s barrier and seal in moisture. Because oils are lipophilic (or “fat-loving”) elements, they pass through the lipid layer of the skin faster, trapping water and moisture and leading to superior hydration. Eminence Organic Skin Care President Boldijarre Koronczay says: “These high-quality facial oils absorb perfectly into the skin, leaving it hydrated and supple. Because the sizes of oil molecules are similar to our molecular composition, our body easily recognizes the product and absorbs the oil instantly.” These oils also repair and protect the skin’s lipid barrier, not only keeping moisture in but also helping to defend the skin against environmental stressors.
2. Packed With Nutrients
According to Well+Good, “oils are your best bet to maintain healthy skin tone, moisture and elasticity.” These miracle workers are a fantastic source of nourishing Vitamins (A, D, E and K), antioxidants and fatty acids. Together, these nutrients protect skin from water loss, keep it hydrated and improve the look of skin concerns like redness due to dryness and loss of elasticity. Experience the purest form of these nourishing ingredients in our Facial Recovery Oil. This luxurious facial oil combines polyphenol-rich olive oil and Vitamin E-enriched sesame oil to deliver much-needed hydration and nutrients for the skin.
3. Balancing Sebum Production
Contrary to popular belief, oil is one of the best ways to tackle oily skin. If you suffer from overactive sebum production, applying oil can reduce oil generation. When skin is properly hydrated, overactive sebaceous glands decrease activity and promote balanced skin. Eminence Organics International Trainer Brian Goodwin explains: “Our sebum also protects us from the elements and allergens, so increasing healthy oil application to the skin helps to protect us from these factors.” One of the best picks for balancing oil on the skin is jojoba oil. Healthline says: “Because jojoba oil is similar to our skin’s structure, it can replicate or dissolve oil, depending if your skin overproduces or underproduces.”
In the same vein, our Charcoal & Black Seed Clarifying Oil is formulated to balance and manage excess sebum by harnessing the power of black seed oil. Sebum protects the skin but can also lead to congestion and shine. This powerful, fast-absorbing formula keeps oily skin looking balanced while maintaining pore clarity and reducing the look of occasional redness. 93% of customers agree that the Clarifying Oil restored moisture to skin with a less oily appearance.*
Now that you know the benefits of face oils, keep reading to find out which oil is best for your skin type and concern.
The Best Oil For Your Skin Type & Concerns
Depending on your skin type and skin concerns, there are a variety of oils to choose from. Look for ingredients like the following to improve the appearance of your complexion:
Oily & Combination Skin
Dry Skin
Sensitive Skin
Calendula
Evening primrose
Aging Skin
Acne-Prone Skin
How To Add A Face Oil to Your Skin Care Routine
Adding a face oil to your routine is simple: Either mix a few drops in with your favorite moisturizer, or add it as an additional layer after you apply serum and before you moisturize. Boldijarre suggests: “Place three to four drops of oil into the palm of your hands and gently rub your hands together to warm the oil. ‘Gentle’ is the keyword here. Then, press the oil into the skin with your entire hand — this ‘pressing’ application allows the oil to absorb with the least amount of friction.”
Boldijarre emphasizes the importance of using a gentle touch, highlighting how to effectively apply the oil with minimal friction. Building on this approach, Nadira Kavanagh, our Product Support Team Lead, offers additional insights for using the Charcoal & Black Seed Clarifying Oil. She advises, “Warm a few drops of facial oil in your hands before applying it to the skin to encourage an even and smooth application. Gently massage the facial oil into your face and neck, applying more as needed with circular motions once or twice daily. Leave on. This oil can be followed with a moisturizer.”
Pro tip: Ensure the correct amount of facial oil is dispensed to evenly address the desired area. Should the skin be evidently dry upon application, it’s likely the skin has absorbed some of the facial oil. For individuals that have drier skin at the time of application, we encourage mindfully applying more as needed, as this will keep the application of the facial oil both seamless and effortless.”
If you have a dog with joint issues, like hip dysplasia or arthritis, then a joint supplement can help improve your dog’s quality of life by supporting the joints. If your dog has no joint problems, a joint supplement can help keep the joints healthy, although it’s not guaranteed. It’s important to talk to your dog’s vet before you begin any supplements, but these reviews will help you find some of the best products that may work to support your dog’s joint health.
A Quick Look at Our 2024 Favorites
The 12 Best Joint Supplements for Dogs
1. VetriScience GlycoFlex Stage III Soft Chews – Best Overall
Glucosamine per dose:
1,000 mg
Chondroitin per dose:
NA
MSM per dose:
1,000 mg
Flavor:
Chicken
The best overall joint supplement for dogs is the VetriScience GlycoFlex Stage III Soft Chews. These are the most potent of the GlycoFlex line and are ideal for dogs who have already developed hip dysplasia and other joint disorders. These chews contain 1,000 mg of glucosamine and MSM per dose, and although chondroitin is not an active ingredient in this product, it does contain green-lipped mussels, which are a good source of chondroitin. These soft chews are chicken-flavored and highly palatable. This formula was developed by veterinarians and is veterinarian recommended. For large dogs, these chews sell for a premium price, but they are quite affordable for small dogs.
Pros
Most potent option in the GlycoFlex product line
Ideal for dogs who have already developed joint problems
1,000 mg of MSM and glucosamine
Contain green-lipped mussels
Soft chews
Highly palatable
Developed and recommended by veterinarians
Cons
Premium price for large dogs
2. VetIQ Maximum Strength Hip & Joint Soft Chews – Best Value
Glucosamine per dose:
600 mg
Chondroitin per dose:
NA
MSM per dose:
210 mg
Flavor:
Chicken
The VetIQ Maximum Strength Hip & Joint Soft Chews are the best joint supplements for dogs for the money. These soft chews contain 600 mg of glucosamine and 210 mg of MSM. They have a palatable chicken flavor and are a good source of hyaluronic acid and omega-3 fatty acids. These budget-friendly chews are available in two package sizes. They are made in the US with high-quality ingredients like krill and fish oil. They are harder than many other soft chews and dry out quickly once opened, so they may be difficult to manage for dogs with chewing difficulties.
Pros
Best value
600 mg glucosamine and 210 mg MSM
Highly palatable
Good source of hyaluronic acid and omega-3 fatty acids
Two package sizes available
Made in the USA
Cons
May be too hard for dogs with chewing difficulties
3. Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength Plus MSM Chewable Tablets – Premium Choice
Glucosamine per dose:
600 mg
Chondroitin per dose:
300 mg
MSM per dose:
250 mg
Flavor:
Brewer’s yeast
The Nutramax Cosequin Maximum Strength Plus MSM Chewable Tablets are the top premium pick for dog joint supplements. These chews are available in five bottle sizes up to 750 chews. Each serving contains 600 mg of glucosamine, 300 mg of chondroitin, and 250 mg of MSM. They are flavored with brewers’ yeast, which is palatable to most dogs. The active ingredients in these chews are in a bioavailable form, ensuring your dog gets the maximum benefit from every dose. These chewable tablets can be offered straight, broken into pieces hidden in treats, or crumbled over your dog’s food. They are made in the USA.
Pros
Five bottle sizes available
600 mg glucosamine, 300 mg chondroitin, and 250 mg MSM
Highly palatable to most dogs
Bioavailable ingredients
Can be fed whole, hidden in treats, or crumbled over food
Made in the USA
4. Zesty Paws Core Elements Mobility Soft Chews
Glucosamine per dose:
450 mg
Chondroitin per dose:
125 mg
MSM per dose:
400 mg
Flavor:
Duck
The Zesty Paws Core Elements Mobility Soft Chews are duck-flavored soft chews that contain 450 mg of glucosamine, 125 mg of chondroitin, and 400 mg of MSM per dose. The MSM in these chews is OptiMSM, which is a premium and highly digestible form of MSM. These chews are available in three package sizes, and they are small and soft enough for small dogs. They are free of grains, corn, and soy and are made in the US. They contain palm oil, but the palm oil is sustainably sourced. Some people report their picky dogs not finding these treats as palatable as other options.
Pros
450 mg glucosamine, 125 mg chondroitin, and 400 mg MSM
OptiMSM is a premium and bioavailable form of MSM
Three package sizes available
Soft and small enough for small dogs
Free of grains, corn, and soy and contains sustainable palm oil
Made in the US
Cons
May not be palatable to some dogs
5. Nutramax Dasuquin with MSM Soft Chews
Glucosamine per dose:
900 mg
Chondroitin per dose:
350 mg
MSM per dose:
800 mg
Flavor:
Fats
The Nutramax Dasuquin with MSM Soft Chews is another veterinarian-formulated and recommended Nutramax product. They contain 900 mg of glucosamine, 350 mg of chondroitin, and 800 mg of MSM per dose. They contain palatable ingredients, like avocado fats and green tea extract. They’re available in four package sizes and are formulated with large dogs in mind. They’re made in the USA, and these joint chews are soft and easy to eat, although they come at a premium price. When giving two chews per day, the manufacturer recommends splitting the dose to chew twice daily instead of two chews once daily.
Pros
Developed and recommended by veterinarians
900 mg glucosamine, 350 mg chondroitin, and 800 mg MSM
Highly palatable
Four package sizes available
Formulated for large dogs
Made in the USA
Cons
Premium price
Recommended to be given as split doses when two chews are needed
6. PetHonesty Advanced Hip + Joint Soft Chews
Glucosamine per dose:
625 mg
Chondroitin per dose:
210 mg
MSM per dose:
325 mg
Flavor:
Chicken
The PetHonesty Advanced Hip + Joint Soft Chews are chicken-flavored chews available in two package sizes. Each dose contains 625 mg of glucosamine, 210 mg of chondroitin, and 325 mg of MSM in PurforMSM, which is high quality and bioavailable. They are also a good source of biotin and nutrient-dense ingredients, like carrots and sweet potatoes. They are soft enough for dogs with chewing difficulties, but some people feel that picky dogs don’t find these palatable. They are made in the US and are more budget-friendly than some of the other joint supplement options.
Pros
Two package sizes available
625 mg glucosamine, 210 mg chondroitin, and 325 mg PurforMSM
Good source of biotin and other nutrients
Made in the USA
Budget-friendly
Cons
May not be palatable to some dogs
7. The Missing Link Ultimate Canine Hip & Joint Formula
Glucosamine per dose:
400 mg
Chondroitin per dose:
NA
MSM per dose:
NA
Flavor:
Beef liver
The Missing Link Ultimate Canine Hip & Joint Formula is a powder supplement that can be sprinkled over your dog’s food. Each dose contains 400 mg of glucosamine and ingredients like ground flaxseed and freeze-dried beef liver. It’s a good source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and contains ingredients that help support cardiac health. It is available in two package sizes. All ingredients are sourced in the US and Canada, and this product is veterinarian formulated. Some dogs don’t seem to find this supplement palatable, and it’s not a good option for those that won’t eat things sprinkled on their food. It does sell for a premium price.
Pros
Easy to dose
400 mg glucosamine
Good source of omega fatty acids
Two package sizes available
Ingredients are sourced in the US and Canada
Veterinarian formulated
Cons
May not be palatable to some dogs
Some dogs may not eat a supplement sprinkled on their food
Premium price
8. Joint MAX Triple Strength Hypo-Allergenic Granules
Glucosamine per dose:
1,000 mg
Chondroitin per dose:
100 mg
MSM per dose:
600 mg
Flavor:
Fats
The Joint MAX Triple Strength Hypo-Allergenic Granules is the best joint supplement for dogs with food sensitivities because it contains no protein sources, soy, wheat, or corn. Each dose contains 1,000 mg of glucosamine, 100 mg of chondroitin, and 600 mg of MSM, as well as omega fatty acids and antioxidants. It is easy to dose and can be sprinkled over your dog’s food. It’s manufactured in the US and is a veterinarian-recommended product. It’s only available in one package size and does sell for a premium price. This product does have a strong smell that many people report finding unappealing, but most dogs seem to find it palatable.
Pros
Best option for dogs with food sensitivities
1,000 mg glucosamine, 100 mg chondroitin, and 600 mg MSM
Good source of omega fatty acids and antioxidants
Easy to dose
Made in the USA
Veterinarian recommended
Cons
Premium price
Strong, unpleasant smell
Some dogs may not eat a supplement sprinkled on their food
9. LubriSyn HA Hyaluronic Acid Horse & Pet Joint Supplement
Glucosamine per dose:
NA
Chondroitin per dose:
NA
MSM per dose:
NA
Flavor:
None
The LubriSyn HA Hyaluronic Acid Horse & Pet Joint Supplement is a good option for preventing joint problems or early joint issues. It contains no glucosamine, chondroitin, or MSM but is a great source of hyaluronic acid, which works to cushion the joints. It’s easy to digest and is bioavailable. It’s formulated and recommended by veterinarians and can show improvements in as little as 7–14 days. It’s available in five bottle sizes and is an easy-to-dose liquid that is colorless, flavorless, and odorless, making it a good option for picky pets.
This is a premium-priced product, although a single purchase should last long for a dog since it is formulated with horses in mind. This product will likely show little improvement for dogs with moderate to severe joint problems.
Pros
Good source of hyaluronic acid
Bioavailable formula
Formulated and recommended by veterinarians
Can begin showing improvements in as little as seven days
Five bottle sizes available
Colorless, flavorless, and odorless
Cons
Contains no glucosamine, chondroitin, or MSM
Premium price
Not a good option for moderate to severe joint problems
10. Super Snouts Joint Power Green-Lipped Mussel for Dogs & Cats
Glucosamine per dose:
NA
Chondroitin per dose:
NA
MSM per dose:
NA
Flavor:
Green-lipped mussel
The Super Snouts Joint Power Green-Lipped Mussel for Dogs & Cats is a powder supplement containing only stabilized, freeze-dried, ground green-lipped mussels. This supplement is a good source of natural chondroitin, omega fatty acids, hyaluronic acid, and amino acids. It’s bioavailable, palatable, and easy to dose. This product has a strong, fishy smell, which many people find unpleasant. This is not a good option for moderate to severe joint conditions since it lacks glucosamine and MSM. This budget-friendly supplement is a good option for dogs with no joint or mild joint conditions.
Pros
Single ingredient
Good source of natural chondroitin, omega fatty acids, hyaluronic acid, and amino acids
Bioavailable
Highly palatable
Easy to dose
Budget-friendly
Cons
Strong, unpleasant odor
Not a good option for moderate to severe joint problems
Contains no glucosamine or MSM
11. Synovi G4 Soft Chews
Glucosamine per dose:
450 mg
Chondroitin per dose:
NA
MSM per dose:
400 mg
Flavor:
Chicken
The Synovi G4 Soft Chews contain 450 mg of glucosamine and 400 mg of MSM per dose, as well as containing natural chondroitin from green lipped mussels. It contains turmeric to help relieve inflammation. These chicken-flavored soft chews are available in three package sizes but sell for a premium price. They are more crumbly than most soft chews, making feeding them messy and difficult. These may not be a good option for picky dogs as they may not be palatable to them. They are not ideal for severe joint issues due to their low concentration of active ingredients.
Pros
450 mg glucosamine and 400 mg MSM
Good source of natural chondroitin from green-lipped mussels
Turmeric helps relieve inflammation
Soft chews are easy for dogs with chewing difficulties to eat
Three package sizes available
Cons
Premium price
Dry and crumbly
May not be palatable to some dogs
Not a good option for severe joint issues
12. Liquid Health Pets Original K9 Glucosamine Hip & Joint Formula
Glucosamine per dose:
1,600 mg
Chondroitin per dose:
1,200 mg
MSM per dose:
1,000 mg
Flavor:
None
The Liquid Health Pets Original K9 Glucosamine Hip & Joint Formula is a liquid supplement that contains 1,600 mg of glucosamine, 1,200 mg of chondroitin, and 1,000 mg of MSM per dose. It’s flavorless and uses bioavailable MSM in OptiMSM form. It’s available in three bottle sizes and is a good source of hyaluronic acid. Once opened, this product should be kept refrigerated, and it needs to be shaken before each use. This product sells at a premium price and is not a good option for picky dogs due to low palatability, although it is made to be flavorless.
Pros
1,600 mg glucosamine, 1,200 mg chondroitin, and 1,000 mg MSM
Flavorless
Bioavailable MSM in the form of OptiMSM
Three bottle sizes available
Good source of hyaluronic acid
Cons
Needs to be kept refrigerated after opening
Needs to be shaken before each use
Premium price
May not be palatable to some dogs
Buyer’s Guide: Finding the Best Joint Supplements for Dogs
Why do the ingredients and concentrations of each active ingredient in joint supplements matter? The active ingredients ensure your dog is getting the maximum benefit from the product by providing a form of the ingredient that can be absorbed and used by the body when consumed. Here are some of the most important active ingredients in joint supplements and why they’re so important.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is an ingredient used within the body as one of the building blocks of the musculoskeletal system. Specifically, glucosamine can be metabolized within the body to create other chemicals needed to heal and grow tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and synovial fluid, which is the fluid that cushions the joints.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin is also an ingredient the body can use to support the musculoskeletal system. However, it specifically works to support and lubricate the cartilage in the body. Cartilage is important because it cushions the ends of the bones, protecting them and the soft tissues from damage due to friction.
MSM
MSM is the acronym for methylsulfonylmethane, which can be used for various purposes to support the overall health and well-being of the musculoskeletal system. MSM primarily functions as an anti-inflammatory, making it a good option for arthritis support and healing post-surgery.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is one of the components present in synovial fluid. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and can even support cell development and tissue growth, making it a good option for healing post-surgery.
Omega Fatty Acids
Omega fatty acids are rich compounds present in things like fish oil, flaxseeds, and kelp. They can support the joints by reducing inflammation and irritation through improving blood flow.
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Conclusion
It is important not to just take the word of these reviews before starting your dog on a joint supplement. All new supplements should be discussed with your dog’s vet to ensure they are safe and effective for your dog. The best overall joint supplement for dogs is the VetriScience GlycoFlex Stage III Soft Chews, which are veterinarian-recommended and beneficial for dogs with moderate to severe joint diseases. For tight budgets, the VetIQ Maximum Strength Hip & Joint Soft Chews are a great alternative with effective ingredients.
If you’re planning a visit to Legoland, you might want to first consider if it’s going to be a busy weekend — it could end up costing you.
Visitors to certain Legoland locations will soon start experiencing surge pricing — or “dynamic pricing,” as the CEO of the company that owns the parks calls it — based on fluctuating demand.
Legoland owner Merlin Entertainments plans to implement the system for its top 20 global attractions before the end of the year, a spokesperson confirmed to Business Insider. Merlin, which also owns Madame Tussauds and the Sea Life aquariums, will extend dynamic pricing to its other Legoland locations in the US next year, the Financial Times reported.
The new system would charge visitors more during peak times, such as sunny summer weekends that draw higher attendance, than it would for rainy weekdays in the offseason, Merlin CEO Scott O’Neil told CNBC in an interview Monday.
“At least for our business, surge pricing is not the name, it’s dynamic pricing,” O’Neil said. “And that actually, ironically, does two things: It actually protects the guest experience.
O’Neil said in the interview that dynamic pricing will help the parks, which have a limited capacity, deal with fluctuating demand in a way that cuts down on overcrowding and long wait times.
“You don’t want to go to Legoland Florida or Legoland New York or Legoland California or Madame Tussauds right down the street here and wait hours in line,” he said.
“You take the prices up, it keeps the numbers down to a reasonable number,” he said. On days without as much foot traffic, the park could then lower the price of admission and attract those looking for a bargain.
O’Neil declined to provide specifics on the pricing swings under the model, but suggested that guests attending on off-peak days could potentially see a 10% discount, or even “a bit more.”
A company spokesperson told BI that they didn’t have specifics to share yet on whether there would be a price limit for any price hikes under the new model.
“For those of us who are a little more budget-conscious, a little more value-based, what an opportunity to have more people be able to experience it on the shoulder times,” he said, referring to discounted prices.
Price fluctuations are not new for Merlin properties, which already reduce entry fees during off-peak periods. But the dynamic pricing model is a step further, incorporating more data to better drive demand and adjust things more quickly, the company told BI.
“This change brings us in line with competitors and the broader holiday industry that have similar pricing structures, which benefit guests who choose to book off-peak,” a Merlin spokesperson told BI.
When pressed by CNBC on how families who are only able to visit during peak times, such as spring break or summer vacation, would deal with potentially higher prices, O’Neil said that the flexible entry fees were “more important than anything.”
Surge pricing has gotten more popular in recent years, thanks in part to the popularity of ride-share apps like Uber. While industries like hotels and airlines have used it for decades, other businesses like restaurants and movie theaters are increasingly following suit.
Earlier this year, Wendy’s faced swift backlash after announcing that it would experiment with dynamic pricing with its menus, though the fast food company later walked this back and clarified that it did not plan to raise prices in response to high demand (the company said it would, however, lower prices to drum up interest during slower periods).
