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  • Signs, Causes, Treatment and Prevention Tips – Dogster

    Signs, Causes, Treatment and Prevention Tips – Dogster

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    If your dog has a habit of eating foreign objects from around the house, you’re not alone. This is a common behavior in many dogs, with serious consequences. Bowel obstruction in dogs can quickly escalate to a life-threatening emergency. Know the signs and causes, so you can get the best treatment, plus learn how to prevent this emergency.

    What is a bowel obstruction?

    Bowel obstructions occur when a dog’s stomach becomes partially or fully blocked, so food or water cannot pass through your pup. As a result, dogs become dehydrated and malnourished. In severe cases, bowel obstructions can cause electrolyte imbalances and permanent damage or perforation of the intestines.

    Common causes of bowel obstruction

    Common household items cause bowel obstructions in dogs. These include:

    • Socks and underwear
    • Bones
    • Corn cobs and fruit pits
    • String
    • Floss
    • Tampons

    Aside from ingesting household items, bowel obstructions can stem from:

    • Intestinal masses
    • Severe intestinal inflammation
    • Severe constipation
    • Intussusception (folding of the intestines)

    Signs of bowel obstruction in dogs

    Common signs of bowel obstructions include:

    • Vomiting
    • Diarrhea
    • Lethargy
    • Loss of appetite
    • Weight loss

    Dogs with partial obstructions may experience the above symptoms with less severity or experience the symptoms intermittently.

    Dog bowel obstruction treatment

    The cause for your dog’s bowel obstruction will dictate his treatment plan.

    If you know or are concerned that your dog has ingested a foreign object or your dog is displaying symptoms of an obstruction, consult your veterinarian immediately!

    Bowel obstructions related to foreign objects can sometimes be managed by inducing vomiting. This should only be done under the direct supervision of your veterinary team and immediately after ingestion has occurred. Some dogs, depending on their size and what was ingested, may  pass the object naturally.

    Your veterinarian may run additional diagnostics, including:

    • Physical exam
    • Radiographs
    • Abdominal ultrasound
    • Bloodwork

    Often, bowel obstruction cases require surgical intervention. Depending on your dog’s condition, IV fluids and supportive care are given prior to surgery. Your dog will undergo general anesthesia before your veterinarian makes a surgical incision into the intestines to remove the obstruction. The vet may need to remove portions of dead and necrotized intestinal tissue.

    Dogs who ingest foreign objects are often repeat offenders. If your dog has lost some of his intestines or has scar tissue as a result of previous obstructions, treating future obstructions is riskier.

    How to help your dog pass the obstruction

    Some dogs, depending on their size and what was ingested, may pass the object naturally. If your dog’s condition appears stable and non-painful, performing gentle massage can promote healthy movement of your pup’s bowels and overall gut motility, potentially helping to naturally pass the obstruction.

    Here is a step-by-step article discussing how to massage your dog to help him poop. If you know your dog ingested something sharp, such as glass, never attempt to help him pass the obstruction. Discontinue the massage session if your dog displays distress or his condition worsens.

    Preventing bowel obstruction

    To minimize future risk of your dog swallowing something, make some changes to your household management style. Just follow these tips:

    • Remove your dog’s access to trash. Keep trash in a dog-proof container and keep trashcans covered.
    • Eliminate bones as treats by not offering them to your dog or keeping them in a covered trashcan.
    • Track when items are missing and consider if your dog could have swallowed them.
    • Supervise your dog with toys. Remove any toys that are falling apart or have pieces your dog may swallow.
    • Remove non-food items from your dog’s reach. Keep counters clean for those counter-surging dogs and items off the floor.
    • Watch for signs and symptoms

    Most dogs with bowel obstructions make a complete recovery, but early intervention is key. Do not ignore signs and do not assume that your pup will pass an obstruction naturally. If your pup has already gone through a bowel obstruction, the biggest means to prevention will be minimizing risk. I hope this does not become your dog’s “thing,” but if it does, these tips may save his life!

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  • Russia Is Making Its Schoolchildren Knit Socks for Soldiers

    Russia Is Making Its Schoolchildren Knit Socks for Soldiers

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    • Russian schools are introducing programs promoting the military to encourage support for the Ukraine war.
    • Russia asked students to knit socks for soldiers and write poems about military history, NYT reported.
    • The all-out effort across 40,000 public schools is reminiscent of Soviet-era propaganda.

    As Russia enters its 16th month of war in Ukraine, it appears to be preparing for the long haul.

    Across its 40,000 public schools, the Kremlin is now promoting programs and materials that celebrate Russia’s military history — an apparent effort to indoctrinate its schoolchildren to support its invasion of Ukraine, The New York Times reported on Saturday.

    Russia is now asking its students to knit socks for Russian soldiers, a seemingly antiquated effort that feels like a throwback to the Soviet era. Students are also writing poems celebrating Russian history and are now supposed to attend a morning assembly where students raise the Russian flag and sing the national anthem, The Times reported. They then spend an hour talking about Russia’s military history.

    While the directives are coming from the highest levels of government, the exact programs are mostly left up to individual school administrators, creating a vast diversity of efforts. One school used the role of a sniper to illustrate a math lesson, The Times reported.

    The school programs first began when Russia annexed Crimea, a southern peninsula in the Black Sea, in 2014. But Russia has ramped up the efforts as its invasion of Ukraine drags on.

    In January, Insider reviewed troves of Russian lesson materials posted online that were preparing children as young as 7 to be ready to die for their country. The overall message seemed to be that Russia was liberating the people of Ukraine.

    A Russian propaganda lesson featuring students dancing with Russian flags.

    A screengrab circulated by Russia’s Ministry of Education, showing Ukrainians in the occupied Donetsk region dancing and singing the Russian national anthem and waving the Russian flag.

    Russian Ministry of Education



    With Russia stagnant on the battlefield, propaganda steps in

    Russia first invaded eastern Ukraine in February 2022. It quickly took large swaths of the country’s eastern territory.

    But its advances have stalled more recently. Russian forces became bogged down in their effort to take the  eastern city of Bakhmut. Ukraine made it a point to try and hold the city, pouring resources into the effort. Russia claimed victory over the city earlier this month, but at a steep cost to both sides.

    Russia’s military far outmatches Ukraine’s. But much of the Russian military equipment is outdated, and soldiers have complained of equipment shortages. Russia has used decades-old tanks and soldiers have said they are relying on Soviet-era gear.

    As setbacks mounted for Russia in Bakhmut, the notorious Wagner Group, a Russian mercenary organization, stepped into the fray. It recruited thousands of Russian prisoners, exchanging their freedom for fighting on the frontlines. The arrival of Wagner in Bakhmut created tensions among the various factions of Russian forces.

    Russia is now bracing for an expected Ukrainian counteroffensive.

    While its indoctrination program is reminiscent of Soviet-era policies, it is this time more muted, The Times reported.

    Experts told the newspaper that this appears to be the result of lessons learned during the Soviet era when propaganda touting the success of Communism stood in stark contrast to the reality many Russians saw in their daily lives.

    “They want enthusiasm, but they realize if they push too hard it could galvanize an organized opposition,” Alexandra Arkhipova, a social anthropologist, told The Times. “They do not want people to protest.”

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  • Body Wrap Treatment For Cellulite

    Body Wrap Treatment For Cellulite

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    With summer around the corner, many of your Clients are thinking ahead to beach season. Some have probably already booked professional treatments to help them look and feel their best as the weather gets warmer. Cellulite is a common concern as shorts and swimsuits enter the chat. Read on to learn about treatments and skin care products that can help to reduce the look of cellulite as we transition into warmer months.  

    What Is Cellulite? What Causes Cellulite? | How Is Cellulite Treated? 

    What Is Cellulite?

    Cellulite is the name for collections of fat that push against the connective tissue just beneath the surface of your skin. It forms when fibrous bands that connect your skin to the underlying muscle tighten irregularly. This tightening pulls down on the skin, and the normal layer of fat beneath the skin pushes upward. The result is a puckering, lumpy or dimpled look to the texture of the skin, appearing most often on hips, thighs, stomach and buttocks. 

    What Causes Cellulite?

    It’s not entirely clear what causes cellulite but it is very common, especially among women. According to the Cleveland Clinic, between 80 and 90% of women who have gone through puberty have cellulite, while it only appears in about 10% of men. The reason for this disparity is unknown, but some experts believe that hormones are primarily to blame. Estrogen, the female hormone, tends to exacerbate cellulite because it encourages the body to build up and store fat while the male hormone, testosterone, burns fat. However, cellulite is more than just excess fat. It actually involves several components of the skin’s structure.

    When estrogen levels fluctuate, blood circulation to the connective tissues is reduced and the tissues are weakened. These hormonal changes also affect lymphatic circulation. This can leave stagnant lymph fluid trapped in weakened connective tissue and may increase the appearance of cellulite.

    Genetics, sex, age, the amount of fat on your body and your skin’s thickness determine how much cellulite you have and how visible it is. As you age, your skin loses elasticity which can make the appearance of cellulite more evident. Gaining weight can also make the appearance of cellulite more prominent. Although people with higher body fat percentages tend to have pronounced cellulite, it’s not uncommon for very lean people to experience cellulite as well. 

    Lifestyle changes that have been shown to help reduce the look of cellulite include eating a healthy diet that incorporates fresh, whole and unprocessed foods, drinking plenty of water and exercising regularly.

    How Is Cellulite Treated? 

    While it is not dangerous or painful, many people are self-conscious about the cellulite on their bodies. There is no cure for cellulite and it can’t be removed, however there are lifestyle changes, medical procedures and spa treatments like body wraps that can help reduce or improve the appearance of it. 

    Body wraps are spa treatments that involve applying a mixture of ingredients to the skin from the chest downward. The Client’s body is then covered with a wrap, usually made of plastic or cloth. The wrap is secured in place while the Client is left to relax for anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour. Body wrap treatments work by trapping heat, allowing the ingredients to penetrate deeply into the skin. Body wraps can target many skin care concerns, including cellulite, because these treatments stimulate blood flow, which can help improve circulation and give the skin a smoother, firmer and tightened appearance. 

    In this article, we will focus on a body wrap designed to target the look of cellulite and provide a protocol that you can use in your spa.

    Herbal Cellulite Treatment 

    For Clients hoping to improve the look of cellulite on the thighs, buttocks, lower abdomen and arms, a body wrap using the Herbal Cellulite Treatment is the gold standard. The skin will appear firmer and more elastic with paprika and skin-safe stinging nettle, which help energize and invigorate the look of the skin. The formulation also contains bioflavonoids and honey which enrich the skin with moisture. The Biocomplex2™ formulation works to bring back a look of vitality and youthfulness.

    Step 1

    Apply a thin layer of Herbal Cellulite Treatment mixed with equal parts water to cellulite-affected areas (such as legs, thighs, buttocks, stomach and arms.)

    Step 2

    Tightly wrap each area with plastic wrap, working from the lower body, upwards. Always wrap towards the heart. 

    Step 3 

    Leave the body wrap treatment on for 20 minutes or more, keeping the Client warm. (Before wrapping the Client, a short galvanic treatment on the body is recommended.)   

    NOTE: The Client may feel a hot, tingling sensation that could last up to 20 minutes, with a rosy color remaining for up to two hours. Advise Clients that this is a normal experience. 

    Do not do any exfoliation before this treatment, especially if this is the first body wrap application for the Client. 

    After the wrap has had time to work its magic, proceed with either a dry or wet removal. 

    Click here for the full body wrap treatment protocol.

    Another way to target cellulite? Caffeine. According to Healthline, caffeine has been found to dilate blood vessels which can temporarily tighten and tone tissues. The stimulant also boosts circulation and reduces water retention which can help smooth out bumpy cellulite on the body. If you’re looking to reduce the appearance of cellulite with a boost of caffeine, the luxurious Stone Crop Contouring Body Cream is a must. The active ingredients of coffee extract and microalgae extract deliver a slimming and smoothing appearance. Use as an all-over moisturizer or as a targeted treatment.

    Have you tried our cellulite treatments on your Clients? Share your experiences with us in the comments below. And find out how to become an Eminence Organics Spa Partner here.

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  • What to Do – Dogster

    What to Do – Dogster

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    The danger of coffee toxicity depends on the amount of grounds eaten versus the weight of your dog, says Dr. Natalie Isaza DVM, owner of Access Veterinary Services in Florida.

    Knowing this information saves valuable time.

    Regardless of your dog’s size, a dog eating coffee grounds is an emergency, whether your dog rummaged through the garbage or swiped chocolate-coated coffee beans off the counter.

    “The first thing to do is to call your veterinarian, or if after hours, call the pet poison control hotline,” Dr. Isaza says.

    Calling poison control after your dog ate coffee grounds

    The veterinarian or poison control will want to know information about the incident and your dog to figure out the toxicity level.  Quickly jot down this information before calling:

    • An estimate of the amount eaten.
    • A good estimate of your dog’s weight.
    • The approximate time when the coffee was eaten. (Transit time through the gut is important.)
    • Signs of toxicity (restlessness, hyperactivity, vomiting, and agitation). These can occur within 30 minutes, sometimes progressing to tremors and seizures.

    24/7 animal poison control options after dog ate coffee grounds

    Is caffeine bad for dogs?

    Caffeine is not dog-friendly. “An average cup of caffeinated coffee contains 95-160 mg of caffeine, and the toxic dose for dogs is around 25 mg per pound of body weight. Coffee grounds may contain more caffeine, simply because of the concentrated nature of the grounds,” Dr. Isaza says.

    Dogs are more likely to consume something tasty, but some will eat or chew on anything. Keep all K-Cups, coffee-laced food, including used or fresh grounds, beyond your fur pal’s reach, says Dr. Isaza. Don’t forget about coffee grounds placed outside as mulch around plants; grounds can be ingested while foraging for other things.

    When your dog consumes any amount of coffee in any form, immediately contacting your vet or poison control with the right information is Plan A.

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  • Six renovated Parisian apartments in historical Haussmann-era buildings

    Six renovated Parisian apartments in historical Haussmann-era buildings

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    Period details are mixed with contemporary interventions inside these renovated apartments in Paris, built in the mid-19th century during Georges-Eugène Haussmann’s reconstruction of the French capital.

    In his role as the prefect of the Seine département under Napoleon III, Baron Haussmann was responsible for creating the network of boulevards that still define the city’s urban landscape today.

    The homogenous apartment buildings flanking these boulevards were designed to strict guidelines, all made from cream-coloured stone with a steep four-sided mansard roof and no more than six storeys.

    Although Haussmann was less prescriptive about the building’s interiors, they generally feature high ceilings and parquet floors alongside elaborate mouldings and boiserie.

    Read on for six examples of how architects and interior designers have brought these apartments into the 21st century, including a book lover’s loft and two flats combined to form a family home in the Marais.

    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration see previous lookbooks featuring bedrooms with minimalist interiors, concrete kitchens and marble-lined bathrooms.


    Wood Ribbon apartment by Toledano + Architects in Haussmann-era building
    Photo by Salem Mostefaoui

    Wood Ribbon apartment by Toledano + Architects

    Original details such as parquet floors and ornate ceiling plasterwork were retained in the renovation of this apartment, which had been left largely untouched since the end of the 19th century.

    But local studio Toledano + Architects tore down several partition walls to create a more open floorplan, traversed by a snaking plywood wall that roughly divides the apartment into three zones while providing tactical storage in the living room and kitchen.

    “I really wanted to enhance this dichotomy between ancient and contemporary,” founder Gabrielle Toledano told Dezeen. “It’s very relevant in a city like Paris where both are in a constant dialogue.”

    Find out more about Wood Ribbon apartment ›


    Canal Saint-Martin apartment by Rodolphe Parente
    Photo by Giulio Ghirardi

    Apartment Canal Saint Martin by Rodolphe Parente

    French interior designer Rodolphe Parente made only a few minor architectural interventions when overhauling this apartment in Canal Saint-Martin, exposing long sealed-off doorways and creating a hybrid dining room and kitchen.

    Instead, he modernised the apartment by contrasting original details such as mouldings with unexpected contemporary details, colours and the “radical” art collection of the owner.

    In the bedroom, a vivid purple rug clashes with caramel-coloured walls while in the living room, period wall panelling highlights the modernity of the sofa and the glossy coffee table.

    Find out more about Apartment Canal Saint Martin ›


    Apartment XIV by Studio Ravazi in Haussmann-era building
    Photo by Olivier Martin Gambier

    Apartment XIV by Studio Razavi

    With several partition walls removed, French office Studio Razavi created a new layout for this apartment by slotting a multi-faceted furniture block made from wood-fibre panels into the remaining gaps.

    Its staggered profile creates sightlines between the different areas of the house while framing some of the building’s original Hausmann-style ceiling mouldings.

    Painted in a muted slate grey, the furniture block performs a different function in every room – acting as a storage cabinet in the kitchen, a TV mount in the living room and a desk in the study.

    Find out more about Apartment XIV ›


    Apartment Paris Marais living and dining room by Sophie Dries
    Photo by Stephan Julliard

    Marais apartment by Sophie Dries

    Two flats become one 100-square-metre residence in this renovation project that French architect Sophie Dries completed in trendy Marais for a family of four.

    Period details were painted in simple white, providing a contrast with new additions such as the Hans J Wegner chairs and the dyed linen curtains in the living room

    “The Haussmannian style was refined and pared down, in order to introduce minimal lines better suited to a modern family,” Dries explained.

    Find out more about Marais apartment ›


    Enter the diamond by atelier 37.2 in Haussmann-era building

    Enter the Diamond by Atelier 37.2

    An additional bathroom is housed inside the three-metre-high birchwood volume at the centre of this residence in the French capital, designed by local studio Atelier 37.2.

    The sharp lines of the diamond-shaped structure contrast with the apartment’s ornate ceiling mouldings and white-painted walls.

    “This tension generates a fictional potential that plays with the imagination of the inhabitants,” said the studio.

    Find out more about Enter the Diamond ›


    Arsenal loft by h2o Architectes
    Photo by Stéphane Chalmeau

    Arsenal loft by h2o Architectes

    This three-room loft is set inside the mansard roof of a Haussmann-era building in the Arsenale district, which originally served as servant’s quarters for the apartments below.

    Parisian firm h2o Architectes opened up its floor plan to make the most of the top-floor views while installing wooden bookshelves to define different areas and house the extensive library of the apartment’s book-loving owner.

    Their timber construction creates a visual connection with the original parquet floors, while the white paint used to brighten walls and other structural elements continues onto some sections of the floor.

    Find out more about Arsenal loft ›

    This is the latest in our lookbooks series, which provides visual inspiration from Dezeen’s archive. For more inspiration see previous lookbooks featuring bedrooms with minimalist interiors, concrete kitchens and marble-lined bathrooms.

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  • 32 Mississippi School Districts Still Under Desegregation Orders

    32 Mississippi School Districts Still Under Desegregation Orders

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    • The Supreme Court Brown vs. Board of Education decision outlawed public school segregation in 1954.
    • But 69 years later, 32 school districts in Mississippi are still under federal desegregation orders.
    • Mississippi has the highest percentage of Black residents of any state.

    LEXINGTON, Miss. (AP) — There are 32 school districts in Mississippi still under federal desegregation orders, the US Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division’s assistant attorney general said Thursday.

    Enforcing the open desegregation orders fit into a broader body of civil rights work launched in Mississippi that is examining jails, police departments, and hate crimes in the state, according to Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the US Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division.

    Referring to the US Supreme Court decision that outlawed segregation of public schools across the country in 1954, she said the Justice Department is ensuring school districts provide Black students in Mississippi with equal access to education programs.

    “In our ongoing efforts to fulfill the promise of Brown vs. Board of Education, we currently have 32 open cases with school districts here in Mississippi,” Clarke said. “And in each of those cases, we are working to ensure that these districts comply with desegregation orders from courts.”

    Clarke spoke to a small group of residents, local leaders and reporters Thursday at the Holmes County Circuit Court Complex in Lexington, about 62 miles from Jackson, the state capital.

    well dressed black people cross their arms sitting in wooden benches

    Community leaders and residents of Lexington, Miss., listen as US Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, unseen, reaffirms the department’s commitment to protecting the civil rights of all Americans, prior to listening to their specific concerns during her stop on the division’s civil rights tour, Thursday, June 1, 2023.


    AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis



    Mississippi is the latest stop in Clarke’s “listening tour” throughout the Deep South. The Justice Department is learning where to direct resources and where it might need to mount civil rights lawsuits, she said.

    Mississippi has the highest percentage of Black residents of any state. It has been home, as have other states, to legal fights over desegregation.

    In 2017, a Mississippi Delta school district agreed to merge two high schools after nearly 50 years of litigation in which the district sought to maintain historically Black and white schools.

    In addition to school districts, Clarke said at least five Mississippi jails and prisons have come under federal scrutiny.

    The department is looking into whether the facilities protect prisoners from violence and meet housing standards. The facilities include the Mississippi State Penitentiary in Parchman, the South Mississippi Correctional Institution, the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility, the Wilkinson County Correctional Facility and a Hinds County Jail.

    Clarke also said her division is investigating whether Rankin County Sheriff’s Deputies used excessive force when they shot Michael Corey Jenkins in the mouth during an alleged drug raid.

    two people tilt their heads to listen to a black woman speak

    Jill Collen Jefferson, president of JULIAN, a civil rights and international human rights law firm, left, and Bonita Streeter, a bail bondsman and community activist, center, confer with Mitzi Dease Paige, an Assistant US Attorney with the Southern District of Mississippi, right, on Thursday, June 1, 2023.


    AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis



    An Associated Press investigation found that several deputies from the department have been involved in at least four violent encounters with Black men since 2019 that left two dead and another with lasting injuries.

    Clarke declined to offer more details about the case, citing an ongoing federal civil rights investigation. After delivering prepared remarks in Lexington, she met with community members about allegations of police brutality in the small town.

    ‘Hate and bigotry are sadly on the rise’

    Police have “terrorized” Black residents by subjecting them to false arrests, excessive force and intimidation, an ongoing federal lawsuit claims.

    black woman with head scarf on speaks

    Jefferson hopes that Clarke takes heed to the concerns of local residents regarding alleged civil rights violations by the Lexington Police Department, during the Lexington, Miss., stop on the division’s civil rights tour, Thursday, June 1, 2023.


    AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis



    “What I hope she’ll do is seriously address the issues. Not gloss over them, say that she has heard about these violations, talk about them in detail and say that it is wrong if it is happening,” said Jill Collen Jefferson, president of JULIAN, a civil rights organization that filed the federal lawsuit on behalf of a group of Lexington residents.

    The community meeting was closed to reporters. The Justice Department has not announced an investigation into the Lexington Police Department.

    Jefferson said her organization plans to file a class action lawsuit against the Lexington Police Department in the new few months.

    Against the backdrop of ongoing investigations into potential civil rights violations ensnaring school districts, jails and police departments is FBI data released in March showing the number of hate crimes in the US rose in 2021.

    “Hate and bigotry are sadly on the rise,” she said.

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  • Summer Dream Team: Why You Need To Pair Vitamin C With SPF

    Summer Dream Team: Why You Need To Pair Vitamin C With SPF

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    When you think of the perfect summer, you may imagine an escape to a tropical paradise; sitting on a white sand beach with a refreshing cocktail (or mocktail) in hand, watching the waves roll in while the warm sun beams down. And your skin? Perfectly smooth, even and glowing, of course. 

    While you may not have a trip to paradise planned, we can still help you achieve the skin of your dreams this summer – and it’s easier than you think!

    When it comes to summertime radiance, you only need to reach for two products to get glowing: a potent source of Vitamin C and a sunscreen. Read on to learn how to make the most of your daily summer ritual with these two essentials. 

    Why You Need Vitamin C

    You likely already know that Vitamin C is an essential part of your diet. But beyond your morning glass of OJ, this powerhouse ingredient can do a lot to enhance your complexion. So what exactly does Vitamin C do for your skin?

    When applied topically, Vitamin C can: 

    • Support your skin’s natural collagen production
    • Brighten your complexion by reducing the redness associated with environmental stress
    • Even skin tone by targeting dark spots
    • Neutralize free radicals, limiting skin damage
    • Prevent premature aging while visibly smoothing fine lines and wrinkles

    An added bonus? This potent nutrient is often found in bright, juicy and delicious summery botanicals like oranges, blueberries, blackberries, Kakadu plum, camu camu, kiwi and pineapple.  

    Why You Need SPF

    You probably apply sunscreen when the sun is shining its brightest. But you may not know that it’s important to use sun protection each and every day, especially when you’re spending lots of time outside. With all the summer fun of lounging by pools, backyard barbeques and frolicking on the beach, you’ll need to layer on your favorite sunscreen before heading outdoors – and be sure to reapply at least every two hours.  

    To get the most out of your sun care, ensure you’re applying SPF from head to toe, taking extra care to target your décolleté, hands, ears and feet. You can also pick up sun care products for your lips and scalp. And remember, when it comes to sun care, an SPF of 30 or more is ideal. 

    Better Together: the Potent Power of Vitamin C With Sunscreen

    Some things are better together. Case in point: Vitamin C and SPF!

    For all its beneficial qualities, Vitamin C does have one drawback: It’s prone to oxidation, which diminishes its effectiveness. If you’ve used a Vitamin C serum before, you may have noticed that it comes in an opaque bottle or dark amber glass. This type of packaging blocks light from getting in, stopping oxidation before it starts. Not only could Vitamin C oxidize in the bottle, it may also oxidize on the skin. According to Lab Muffin, “Some vitamin C serums that contain ascorbic acid, [can cause] slightly darkened skin after a few days of use. The stained skin looks red or orange-brown, sort of like fake tan.” This tends to be the case when the Vitamin C is not paired with sun protection. But fear not! Layering SPF over Vitamin C helps prevent oxidation.

    On her YouTube channel, London-based Cosmetic Dermatologist Dr. Sam Bunting explains these benefits. “No one gets 100% protection from UV from sunscreen,” she says. “ It’s almost impossible because we tend to underapply [sunscreen], it comes off through the day, maybe we’re not rigorous about topping up. We’re reliant on a second line of attack from an antioxidant serum, like a Vitamin C serum.” 

    Another perk to this combo? Vitamin C can actually boost sunscreen’s protective power. Chicago-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Steven Mandrea, explains in an interview with Real Simple that  “combining Vitamin C serum and broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect well against UVA rays has been shown to be more effective at neutralizing free radical damage from sun exposure than just using sunscreen alone.” 

    A Summer Routine With Vitamin C + Sun Protection

    Ready to get glowing? This vitamin-rich routine brings on a bright, luminous look for all skin types. 

    Step 1 

    Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Cleanser: This cleanser is perfect for smoothing texture without overstripping skin’s natural oils. A milky gel with a juicy scent, you’ll love this cleanser as a new addition to your skin care practice.

    Step 2

    Pineapple Refining Tonique: Tropical and vibrant, this toner smells like fresh pineapple juice! This daily formula combines gentle bromelain and PHA to exfoliate all skin types, including sensitive. Chemical exfoliation may sound daunting, but PHA and bromelain are gentle enough to get the job done without irritation.

    Step 3

    Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum: Bring on the brightness with this award-winning serum.

    Made with stabilized Vitamin C, Vitamin E, avocado, leafy greens and citrus oils, this serum is well-loved for its ability to reveal skin that looks youthful, plump and bright. 

    Step 4

    Arctic Berry Peptide Radiance Cream + Superfood Booster-Powder: Conquer dullness and dehydration with two illuminating formulas. First, reach for the Arctic Berry Peptide Radiance Cream. This hydrator firms and brightens the skin’s appearance with antioxidant-rich berries and our Peptide Illuminating Complex. Take it to the next level by adding a scoop of the Superfood Booster-Powder. This fine powder blends seamlessly into the moisturizer and indulges skin with Vitamins C, B3 and K from Kakadu plum, coix seed and spirulina.

    Step 5

    Hibiscus Ultra Lift Eye Cream: A bright summer routine wouldn’t be complete without a revitalizing eye cream. Made with hibiscus, ice wine actives and caffeine, the Hibiscus Ultra Lift Eye Cream de-puffs, lifts, brightens and tightens. All that in one quick and easy step! Plus, the cooling applicator feels super refreshing on the skin, especially on a hot day.

    Step 6 

    Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40: Protect skin with this broad-spectrum UVA and UVB SPF, enhanced with Vitamin C-rich lilikoi (aka passionfruit). The Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40 uses zinc oxide to provide sun protection. This formula also contains cocoa seed extract and satsuma mandarin peel, which helps improve the look of skin exposed to environmental stressors like blue light and pollution. Perfect year-round, especially for those sunny beach days!

    Tailor by Skin Type

    This routine is a phenomenal way to introduce vitamin-rich skin care into your routine. Plus, it ensures you’re protected from the summer sun. But if you have specific skin concerns, you can make these smart switches to cater to your unique skin type and concerns. 

    Dry Skin 

    While the Pineapple Refining Tonique works for all skin types, dry skin may like the Bright Skin Licorice Root Exfoliating Peel instead. This peel is designed to be used just one to three times per week rather than daily. Less frequent exfoliation helps dry skin retain moisture.

    Dry skin will also love the Rosehip Triple C+E Firming Oil. Vitamins C and E work hand in hand with rosehip, jojoba and seabuckthorn oil to give dry skin much-needed hydration. Apply before your SPF.

    Oily Skin

    Dealing with excess oil, large pores and breakouts? Grab the Mangosteen Gel Moisturizer. This lightweight formula quenches oily skin without adding grease or shine. Plus, this formula contains illuminating antioxidants to bring out the appearance of a summery glow. 

    Enhance your routine with the Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Concentrate. Large pores don’t stand a chance against this dreamy formula’s mix of lactic acid, ribose and mangosteen. 

    Normal Skin 

    Normal skin should be good to go with the routine mentioned above. But if you like to go the extra mile, these formulas will enhance your bright glow while keeping your skin in perfect balance. The Kombucha Microbiome Luminosity Serum helps balance your skin’s microbiome for a healthy-looking glow.

    The Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque also gives your skin some extra radiance. Its delightful gel-cream texture smooths on easily and illuminates the skin through a botanical blend of ripe citrus fruit oils, avocado and leafy greens. 

    Sensitive Skin 

    You may be wondering if it’s possible to go overboard with Vitamin C: in some cases, yes! You’ll want to tread carefully when using Vitamin C on sensitive skin. Start slowly and consider reaching for the Kombucha Microbiome Luminosity Serum in place of the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum. This calming serum reveals glowing skin without irritation. 

    You can also add on the Rosehip Triple C+E Firming Oil to gently introduce Vitamin C while hydrating dryness associated with sensitivity. 

    Have you tried Vitamin C and your SPF together? If not, use our Spa Locator to find an Eminence Spa near you. An esthetician can help you pick out the right products so you’re ready to glow all season long.

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  • What to Do If Your Dog Is Choking – Dogster

    What to Do If Your Dog Is Choking – Dogster

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    Any dog of any age or size can choke on almost anything. It can be a pet parent’s worst nightmare. An object can get stuck in a dog’s throat, block an airway, and render the dog unconscious.

    And it can happen quickly and unexpectedly. Just ask Ryan Shaw, a certified professional dog trainer at What A Great Dog training center in Frisco, Texas. She was conducting an agility class when one of her students was holding her small terrier named Calli in one hand while encouraging Calli to nibble on the end of a hotdog held in her other hand.

    “Suddenly, Calli ate the whole hot dog, started gagging and two seconds later, she was not breathing,” recalls Ryan. “I learned how to do the Heimlich maneuver in a pet first aid class. I grabbed the dog, cradled her in my arm and performed abdominal thrusts. I then turned her upside down, hit her sharply on her back about four times and the hot dog popped out and landed on the floor. The dog recovered very quickly and resumed normal breathing, but it all happened so quickly.”

    Tragically, more than 200,000 choking incidents among dogs and cats occur each year in the United States with veterinary care to treat these pets topping $500,000 annually, according to veterinary experts.

    “A dog in respiratory distress will be a scared dog,” says Dr. Judy Morgan, who practiced veterinary medicine for 36 years and now runs Dr. Judy Morgan’s Naturally Healthy Pets to educate and empower pet parents to bring out the healthy best in their pets. “I saw many choking cases during my career and some of these cases did not have good outcomes, which is very sad as this is something that is preventable.”

    Sharing her need to prevent choking in pets is Johnna Devereaux, a clinical pet nutritionist and chief nutrition officer at Bow Wow Labs. This company creates the Bow Wow Buddy,  a line of Safe Fit Bully Sticks life-protecting safety devices. This device securely holds a chew in place to allow a dog to chew without choking on the last bit.

    “No matter the size of the chew or treat, always supervise your dog when they are consuming something,” says Johnna. “Dogs don’t have the tactile ability to hold small pieces in their paws, so they take them whole into their mouths. This can be a recipe for disaster.”

    Dr. Morgan and Johnna are teaming up to launch the first National Pet Choking Prevention Day on June 22. Sponsored by Bow Wow Labs, the mission is to educate pet parents and pet professionals on solutions that can help eliminate pet choking incidents on long-term chews and other objects. Learn more at https://nationalpetchokingpreventionday.com.

    “Through education and national awareness, we hope to bring that staggering number of pet choking incidents down to zero because the best and worst part of choking is that it is preventable,” says Johnna.

    Dr. Morgan urges pet parents to know their dogs’ eating and playing styles.

    “It is important to understand how each individual dog handles treats, food and long-lasting chews,” she says. “Some will try to gulp them while others will chew off small bits at a time. Supervision is critical.”

    Recognize that dogs love to chew, adds Johnna.

    “The natural act of chewing supports so many different bodily systems,” says Johnna. “Benefits include supporting oral health by massaging the gums, engaging the jaw muscles and providing friction against teeth to act like a natural brush to help boost oral care. The act of chewing releases serotonin, which supports a healthy and calm state of mind.”

    Dr. Morgan and Johnna recommend pet parents enroll in pet first aid classes offered in person and online that address ways to prevent and to provide on-the-scene first aid for dogs choking.

    “Every pet parent should watch a video on performing the Heimlich maneuver or take a course in pet first aid,” says Dr. Judy. “Having knowledge prior to an incident will save valuable time and potentially, save the life of a dog.”

    Johnna and Dr. Morgan also recommend these preventive tips to reduce the risk of your dog choking on an object:

    • No toy should be able to fit inside a pet’s mouth as it can easily cause choking and block the airway.
    • Choose tennis balls that are wider than the wide of a dog’s jaw so it won’t get stuck inside the mouth during a game of fetch.
    • Routinely do a pet safety check in each room of your house to make sure that small objects, such as a plastic container of dental floss or a toddler’s small doll is not within reach of a curious dog.
    • Carefully scrutinize when selecting chews and treats. Safer examples include dehydrated meats, pizzle sticks and soft chews, says Dr. Morgan.

    Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Heimlich on Dogs

    Dogs of any size will attempt to dislodge any object in their mouths by coughing and lurching forward. Step in to assist when this coughing turns into a gasping sound called a stridor. Your dog needs you to perform the Heimlich maneuver designed for pets in a calm manner.

    As a master certified pet first aid/CPR instructor for 12 years and founder of Pet First Aid 4U, I train pet parents and pet professionals in the veterinarian-approved way to perform abdominal thrusts safely and effectively on dogs and puppies.

    For small dogs with airways partially or completely blocked by an object, follow these steps:

    1. Stand and hold your dog with his back against your stomach.
    2. Hold him up with one arm around his upper abdomen.
    3. With your other hand, make a fist (tuck in your thumb).
    4. Position your closed fist at the end of ribcage in the soft spot.
    5. Thrust your fist in and upward five times in a row on the dog’s exhale to try to dislodge the object.
    6. Every five thrusts, open and inspect the mouth to see if you can dislodge any object.
    7. Be ready to perform rescue breaths if the dog becomes unconscious. Use your speaker function on your cell phone to alert the nearest veterinary clinic of your arrival as you continue the abdominal thrusts.

    For medium to large dogs whose airways are partially or completely blocked by an object, follow these steps:

    1. Stand behind your dog if he is standing.
    2. With one hand, make a fish and tuck in your thumb.
    3. Position this closed fist at the soft spot just past the ribcage.
    4. Use your other open-palm hand to hold this fist in place.
    5. Thrust your hands up and forward (toward the dog’s mouth) five times in a row on the dog’s exhale to try to dislodge the object.
    6. Every five thrusts, open and inspect the mouth to see if you can dislodge any object.
    7. Be ready to perform rescue breaths if your dog becomes unconscious.
    8. Use your speaker function on your cell phone to alert the nearest veterinary clinic of your arrival as you continue the abdominal thrusts.

    Dr. Judy Morgan offers additional option if the object is wedged in the back of the throat and cannot be safely removed:

    “If the dog is lying down, stabilize the pet by placing one hand on the spine and thrust upward under the ribcage with the (closed) fist of your second hand,” she instructs. “Repeat the thrust four or five times, checking the mouth after each attempt to see if the object has dislodged.”

    Choking Hazards

    Here is a rundown of some everyday items that a dog can swallow and cause choking and even trigger unconsciousness:

    • Avocado pits
    • Baby bottle nipples
    • Baby carrots
    • Balls (tennis, rubber)
    • Bully sticks
    • Buttons
    • Cell phone
    • Corn cobs
    • Dental floss
    • Diapers
    • Fishhooks
    • Food wrappers
    • Game pieces
    • Hair ties
    • Hot dogs
    • Jewelry
    • Kibble pieces
    • Rawhide chews
    • Refrigerator magnets
    • Rocks
    • Rubber bands
    • Sticks
    • Sewing supplies
    • Shoelaces
    • Socks
    • Squeakers from plush toys
    • Sponges
    • Tampons
    • Tinsel
    • Underwear
    • Window blind cords
    • Yarn

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  • Taylor Swift’s Old Cornelia Street Apartment Is for Sale: See Inside

    Taylor Swift’s Old Cornelia Street Apartment Is for Sale: See Inside

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    • Taylor Swift’s former apartment is on sale for $17.9 million or can be rented for $45,000 per month.
    • Swift’s references the townhouse in her song “Cornelia Street,” featured on the album “Lover.”
    • The NYC home has its own indoor pool and multiple private terraces overlooking the West Village.

    You can now have your very own slice of Taylor Swift’s “Cornelia Street” — to the tune of $17.9 million.

    “Cornelia Street,” the ninth song on Taylor Swift’s seventh studio album, “Lover,” alludes to an apartment the star once lived in in New York City’s West Village, as well as the early days of her relationship with whom many believe to be actor Joe Alwyn.

    “‘I rent a place on Cornelia Street,’ I say casually in the car,” Swift sings in the first verse.

    The pop superstar rented 23 Cornelia Street for a few months between 2016 and 2017, according to People.

    According to Street Easy, Swift’s former home is now for sale, but it can also be rented for $45,000 per month. 

    Keep reading for a closer look at Swift’s iconic Cornelia Street apartment.

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  • Pore Strips, Glue And Other Skin Trends To Avoid

    Pore Strips, Glue And Other Skin Trends To Avoid

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    If you’re anything like us, your social media feed is showing you a lot of so-called “skin care hacks” that claim to help you achieve the best possible complexion. While these DIY tricks may look good on TikTok or Instagram, many of them should be avoided, especially the ones inspired by spa treatments usually performed by trained professionals. Read on to learn about some popular internet trends that should be avoided — and discover the alternative treatments that are much better for your skin!

    Avoid: Pore Strips 

    Pore strips (also known as blackhead strips) aren’t a new trend, and actually first hit the shelves in the 1970s. They’re back in the spotlight because people online love to share the satisfaction of peeling them off to reveal what looks like buildup, dirt and oil found in their pores. The strips’ staying power is understandable – who wouldn’t want to empty their pores with a simple, inexpensive product that provides such instant gratification?

    Unfortunately, pore strips aren’t all they’re cracked up to be. They work by forcefully pulling the oil from sebaceous filaments that line your pores and maintain your skin’s oil balance. Any redness you might notice after using one is not the squeaky clean skin you think it is. Instead, it’s irritated skin that has been painfully stripped of the oils that work to keep your skin barrier in good working order. 

    According to Very Well Health, the benefits of a pore strip are temporary and not as impressive as a pore strip’s residue might suggest. Oftentimes, our sebaceous filaments – which actually play a key role in your skin’s hydration and oil regulation – are mistaken for clogged pores. Pore strips target these important sebaceous filaments, along with whatever else they can grab. Plus, when using them for nose blackhead removal, pore strips can only pull out a small section and can’t reach larger, deeper blackheads. This means leaving a large portion behind in your skin. Without addressing the root of the problem, you’ve only partially emptied a tiny crevice that is now ready to collect new dirt and buildup. Yuck. 

    Instead, opt for a chemical or finely powdered physical exfoliant. We love the Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant to clear clogged pores around the nose. This fine powder works by gently removing grime or gunk without stripping the skin of the oils that work to protect it, giving you a deep clean without any damage. 

    Avoid: Using Glue To Remove Blackheads

    One of the more surprising trends we’ve seen is using glue to create a pore-strip-style product for the face. Yes, you read that right – we’re talking about the white, thick glue you used in grade school. 

    According to Healthline, this trend mimics the effects of a traditional pore strip. However “glue is not intended for human skin, and may cause your pores to become even more clogged.” While we understand the appeal of a budget-friendly hack, we definitely couldn’t recommend this one in good conscience – especially considering the nasty chemicals that glue contains. Avoid greater skin issues down the line and keep the glue for your next craft project. 

    Instead, incorporate a peel into your weekly routine. This will help keep blackheads, whiteheads and surface level texture at bay. We love the Clear Skin Willow Bark Exfoliating Peel

    Avoid: Pore Vacuums 

    You might have seen a newer tool pop up in your skin care aisle or social media feed: the pore vacuum. Pore vacuums are handheld devices that suction onto the skin, promising to pull out any blackheads, gunk or buildup that’s settled in. But don’t believe the hype.

    While pore vacuums look similar to highly effective tools used by spa professionals, they are not the same. The professional tools require specialized training to treat the area without damaging the skin’s layers. According to Healthline, at-home pore vacuums can cause bruising, discoloration and scarring, especially when used by someone not trained in esthetics. Worse, if you’re prone to sensitive skin reactions or rosacea, a pore vacuum can result in broken blood vessels or capillaries. 

    Instead, we’d recommend gommage – an exfoliating technique where a physical exfoliant is layered over a gel textured mask or treatment and gently rolled away with damp fingers after a few minutes. Gommage uses physical and chemical exfoliation to softly slough away dead skin cells and remove other debris from the skin’s surface. This technique is safe to try at home with a soft touch and slow movements. Or, head to your esthetician to have a professional safely perform extractions along with a gommage treatment.

    Keen to try it? Our Lead Skin Care Trainer, Natalie Pergar, recommends a combination of our Stone Crop Masque and Stone Crop Oxygenating Fizzofoliant for a gentle yet invigorating treatment. 

    Avoid: Face Taping 

    A newer trend to hit the internet involves applying sticky tape-style products on the skin before bed to reduce movement and prevent wrinkles through the night. While this might make sense in theory, there are many reasons why this isn’t an effective strategy for smoothing the face. 

    According to the Cleveland Clinic, any short-term fixes will quickly disappear as the skin resumes its normal position when you wake up and start your day. And worse, pulling off the tape can remove a layer of skin, prompting irritation, allergic reactions to the tape itself or even blisters. 

    Instead, encourage lymphatic drainage and soften the look of wrinkles by using a gua sha tool as part of your routine. A regular gua sha practice gently works the muscles, increases glow and reduces puffiness. Discover our favorite gua sha techniques here

    Avoid: Harsh Scrubs 

    Aggressively buffing away at a surface to smooth it out makes sense when painting a wall or priming furniture, but would you use a product akin to sandpaper on your face? We didn’t think so. Harsh scrubbing with products that use nut shells or other ingredients with sharp edges will not give you the clear base you’re looking for. 

    Harsh scrubbing with thick, gritty pastes can lead to microtears and irritation, damaging your skin barrier and creating the perfect conditions for future breakouts. Vigorous physical exfoliation can also strip the skin, causing it to overproduce lost oil, leading to acne and other issues. Plus, if you have existing breakouts, scrubs can aggravate already inflamed skin, making breakouts worse

    Instead, gently exfoliating with a finely powdered product is the way to go. While smoothing skin with a powder scrub, use plenty of water to work the product around the face. A chemical exfoliant will do the same job without any rubbing at all. Remember, skin care is a marathon, not a sprint. Make your exfoliating ritual slow and relaxing. Your skin will love you for it. 

    Avoid: Derma Rolling

    A derma roller is a handheld roller covered with tiny needles that you roll over the surface of your skin. Derma rolling takes inspiration from microneedling, a professional treatment that creates a low level of trauma to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin in the skin. Microneedling can be an effective treatment for firming the skin because a professional can make adjustments depending on how their Clients’ skin reacts. However, the “one size fits all approach” of derma rolling means this treatment isn’t nearly as safe or effective.

    According to Healthline, the potential risks include permanent scarring and darkening of the skin. Without proper sterilization, derma rolling also comes with a risk of infection. Some dermatologists express concerns about potential microtears and the risk of cheap rollers leaving tiny needle particles in the skin. Because of the risk of irritation, derma rollers are a no-go for those with eczema and dermatitis. Plus, as the rolling movement can spread bacteria around the face, derma rolling is especially risky for those with acne or cold sores. 

    Because these devices may reach nerves, blood vessels and other parts of the skin, even the FDA suggests leaving derma rolling to the professionals. Don’t try this one at home! Instead of derma rolling at home, always opt for professional microneedling treatments.

    Watch as our Lead Skin Care Trainer, Natalie Pergar, discusses these and other skin care trends that should be avoided. 

     

    If you’re looking for better ways to improve your skin, consider reaching out to an Eminence Spa Partner in your area to help you choose the right option.

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