| How to Do 3x5 Squats Posted: 04 Apr 2017 05:00 PM PDT Squats are a great way to build muscles in your lower body. Doing 3x5 squats means doing three sets of five squats. You need to warm up beforehand to make sure you don't strain yourself. Use proper techniques when you do squats and rest between sets. Have rest days between days you weight train to maintain the routine longterm. EditDoing Body Weight Squats - Get in the starting position. Stand with your feet shoulder length apart. Your hips should be over your knees and your knees should be over your ankles.[1]
- As you won't be lying on the floor at any point when you're doing squats, they are okay to do on any surface. A mat is not necessary unless you're doing other activities afterwards.
- Extend your arms forward. Roll your shoulders backwards so they're behind your ears. Then, raise your arms forward. Hold them in a straight line so they're parallel to the ground.[2]
- Lower your body by bending your knees forward. Inhale and bring your hips back slowly. As you bring your hips back, bend your knees to lower your body to the floor. As your bottom sticks out, strive to keep your chest and shoulders straight. Lower your body as far to the floor as is comfortable for you.[3]
- Return to the starting position. You want to launch your body upwards using your heels. Return to the original position, with your arms parallel to the floor and your feet about shoulder length apart.[4]
- Complete five repetitions. Three by five squats means you will do three repetitions of five squats. After you return to the original position, do four more squats to complete one set of five.[5]
- Rest for 60 to 90 seconds between sets. You should not do your sets too close together, as this can cause strain. Rest for 60 to 90 seconds between squats. You can count in your head or set a timer.[6]
- Do two more sets. After repeating one set, do two more. Remember to rest in between sets for 60 to 90 seconds.[7]
EditAdding Weights and Variations - Do single leg squats. If one of your legs seems stronger than the other, you can build leg strength in one area by doing single leg squats. To start, get in the squat position. Then, lift up the leg you're not going to be strengthening.[8]
- For example, say you want to build muscle in your right leg. Hold up your left leg. Hold slightly in front of you or slightly behind you, depending on what helps you maintain balance. Then, do a squat with only your right leg and return to the starting position.
- Remember to lower your body as low to the ground as possible when doing a squat. Stop if you feel uncomfortable.
- Jump when you squat. Adding a jump to your squat adds some cardio and forces you to work your muscles harder. To jump when you squat, get in the squat position. Then, lower yourself downward like you're doing a regular squat. When you're about halfway down, propel yourself upward and jump so both of your feet are in the air. After you land, return to the starting position and repeat.[9]
- For added variation, you can swing your arms in the air when you jump.
- Add a weight across your back. To add weight, you will need a dumbbell. Start with only a light amount of weight, such as five pounds, to avoid straining yourself. You can add more weight with time. Place the bar across your back, holding your shoulders firm for support. Then, do your three by five repetitions as normal. Adding a little weight can increase muscle definition.[10]
- Be conscious of keeping your back and shoulders tight the entire time if you choose to add weight.
- Pause with the weight. If you increase the time you're holding a weight, this will build more muscle. When lifting with a weight, pause at the bottom of your squat. Hold the position for two to six seconds before returning to the starting position. Do this for your regular three by five repetitions.[11]
- Only pause for as long as is comfortable for you.
EditMaintaining Your Routine Safely - Talk to your doctor before you begin a weight training regimen. You want to make sure weight training is safe for you given your current fitness level. Make an appointment with your doctor to talk over weight training to find a safe routine for you given your current health. This is especially important if you have any underlying medical issues.
- Make sure you're using proper techniques. It may be a good idea to talk to a trainer in your gym or watch videos online of people doing squats when you're starting out. It can take awhile to get the hang of the movements. If you're using improper technique, this can cause strain or injury.[12]
- If you feel very sore after doing squats, you may be using improper techniques. Try consulting a trainer at your gym for guidance.
- Have rest days between the squats. Squats are a form of weight training. It's best to engage in weight training only two to three days a week. You should always have rest days in between. Do not do squats two days in a row, as this can cause injury.[13]
- If you have very intense workouts, that incorporate intense aerobics in addition to squats, only opt for light activity on rest days. Go for brief walks, for example, but try to take it easy overall.[14]
- If you only engage in light exercise, you can do more intense workouts on weight training rest days. For example, you can play sports outdoors or go for a light jog.
- Listen to your body. You may not be able to complete a full three by five routine at first, especially if you're new to weight training. If you feel very sore or strained during a routine, stop. You should pay attention to your body's signals.[15]
- If you feel pain when squatting, this is not normal. You should stop if you feel pain and rest for a day before trying again.
EditWarming Up Properly - Take any supplements you use regularly. If you're on supplements for your workout routine, you should take these prior to your workout. This will help you gain the strength you need to complete your squatting routine. Make sure to refer to the instructions on your supplement for any specific guidelines regarding how soon to take them before a workout.[16]
- You should always consult a doctor before beginning a supplement routine.
- Stretch. You never want to engage in squats without doing some light stretching first. To start, do some slow moves like burpees and downward dog yoga poses.[17]
- To do a burpee, raise your hands over your head. Then, lower your body to the ground. Place your weight on your hands while stretching your legs and feet backward, like you would before doing a pushup, and lower your body to the ground. Return to the starting position and repeat.
- To do the downward dog pose, place your hands flat on the floor and make a triangle shape with your body. Hold the pose for as long as is comfortable. This should stretch your body for squats.
- Do light exercises for about five minutes. Five minutes of light exercise is recommended before weight training. You can try something like five minutes on an elliptical machine or five minutes of light walking or jogging.[18]
EditSources and Citations
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| How to Remove Permanent Marker from Cotton Posted: 04 Apr 2017 01:00 PM PDT Permanent markers rely on oil or alcohol "carriers" to apply ink to a surface and hold it there. You can use a liquid with a high percentage of alcohol to dissolve these carriers and remove a permanent marker stain from a cotton material.[1] You may also be able to use a commercial stain remover or citrus juice to remove permanent marker ink. EditUsing an Alcohol-Based Solvent - Remove wet ink with a clean cloth. If the ink is still wet, use a clean, dry cloth to gently dab the stain. This will remove the ink that hasn't soaked into the cotton material and dried. Avoid scrubbing or wiping, as this may spread the stain.[2]
- Select a solvent with a high percentage of alcohol. You'll need a solvent to help break down the ink and remove it. Liquids with a high percentage of alcohol are the most effective solvent for this purpose. Fortunately, there are a handful of readily available options.[3]
- Methylated spirits or rubbing alcohol are the best option. These are available at hardware stores and pharmacies.
- Alcohol-based hair spray, nail polish remover, and liquid hand sanitizer that contains alcohol will also work. In a pinch, liquor may work too.
- Test your solvent before using. Apply a small amount of the solvent you want to use to a hidden area of the cotton item, such as the inside seam of a piece of clothing. Most cotton items will not be affected by alcohol-based liquids, but it's worth making sure your solvent won't discolor the item.[4]
- If your solvent discolors your cotton item, try a different solvent before proceeding.
EditApplying the Solvent - Position the stain against a paper towel. Place the section of the cotton material that is stained face down against a piece of dry paper towel. This will allow you to work the stain out of the cotton from the other side of the material.[5]
- Pour the solvent into the stain from the other side. Pour a small amount of your solvent onto the cotton so that it seeps through the material into the stain. Allow the solvent to breakdown the stain by letting it to sit for a minute. [6]
- Blot the stain from the opposite side. Dampen a cotton ball or piece of cloth with solvent and gently blot the stain from the backside. This will push the marker ink out of the cotton and into the paper towel.[7]
- Change the paper towel frequently. Continue adding alcohol to the stain in small amounts and blotting. As you do so, remove saturated paper towels from below and replace them with dry paper towels that will soak up your solvent and ink from the stain.[8]
- Frequent paper towel changes are important, to prevent the cotton from re-absorbing ink that is transferred into the towel.
- Continue blotting and replacing the paper towel until no more ink transfers and the stain is removed from the cotton material.
- Air dry the material. After removing the ink stain, allow the item to air dry and ensure the stain is removed. Avoid machine-drying the material until you're sure the stain is removed, as high-heat drying can make the stain permanent.[9]
- Once you're sure the stain has been removed, wash the item normally.
EditTrying Other Methods - Try a stain remover. Stain removers require less effort on your part, and may work well. Examples include Dawn Power Dissolver, Mr. Clean Multi-Surface Cleaner, and Tide Spray 'n Wash. Follow the directions on the items container, making sure they can safely be used on cotton.[10]
- Be aware that it may take several applications of a stain remover in order to fully remove a stain.
- Always test a commercial stain remover on an inconspicuous part of the cotton item.
- Use a citrus fruit instead of alcohol. Citrus juice is an alternative solvent option. Place the stained material face down on clean paper towel. Cut an orange or lemon in half, and dab the fruit's flesh onto the back of the stained area.[11]
- Switch the paper towel frequently and continue dabbing until the stain is removed. Allow the item to air dry and wash normally.
- Try to rinse the stain out. You may be able to remove an ink stain without blotting. You will still need to apply a solvent, such as alcohol-based hairspray. Apply the solvent directly to the stain from both sides of the cotton material. Allow the solvent to sit for a few minutes and rinse in cool or warm water.[12]
- You may need to repeat this process several times.
- Try allowing the solvent to soak into the stain for a longer period of time, such as 15 minutes, between rinses.
EditThings You'll Need - An alcohol-based solvent, such as rubbing alcohol, hair spray, or liquid hand sanitizer
- A clean cloth or cotton balls
- Paper towels
EditSources and Citations
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| How to Take Care of Lucky Bamboo Posted: 04 Apr 2017 09:00 AM PDT This wikiHow will teach you on how to take care of lucky bamboo. EditKey Points - Keep the bamboo in water or soil. ↓
- Use a pot that is 2 inches (5.08 centimeters) wider than the stalk. ↓
- Fertilize it periodically for quicker growth. ↓
- Water it sparingly. ↓
- Keep it out of direct sunlight. ↓
- Remove dead or yellow leaves regularly. ↓
EditSelecting a Lucky Bamboo Plant - Find a plant that looks appealing to you. Don't just pick the first bamboo plant you find, but look for a healthy one. You can find Lucky Bamboo plants at your local garden center or nursery, and even some grocery stores.
- It may be labeled one of the following ways: Lucky Bamboo, Ribbon Plant, or occasionally by its true name, Dracaena sanderiana.
- Pick one that's a vibrant green color. Caring for a Lucky Bamboo plant isn't very hard, but if you get one that isn't healthy, it will be much harder to care for and it may die. The size of the plant doesn't matter too much here, as most of them will be fairly small.
- It should be an even green color all over with no blemishes, bruises, or yellowing.
- The stalks should be a consistent color from the base to their tops.
- There also shouldn't be any browning on the tips of the leaves.
- Make sure it's been planted properly and doesn't smell. Lucky Bamboo plants are very resilient, but if they have been planted incorrectly or have a sour odor, they could be sick, and won't grow.[1]
- Bamboo plants don't have a fragrance like flowers do, but if they haven't been watered properly, they can grow bacteria and develop a stink.
- Check the current water levels, and check to see if it has soil or fertilization. Many bamboo plants are grown hydroponically, just in water with small rocks or pebbles to hold the stalks in place. Some may be in soil, however, so check to make sure that it is at least half full of water, or the soil is moist, but not soaked.
EditPlanting the Lucky Bamboo Plant - Decide between water or soil.[2] There are advantages to both options depending on how much you are prepared to care for it. Too much soil or fertilization can actually harm your plant. However, if you are using tap water and it has fluoride and other chemicals, you may want to use soil and fertilizer to prevent yellow tips.[3]
- If you are growing it in standing water, you will need some pebbles to hold it upright. If in soil, try mixing a third each of sand, peat moss, and regular soil to ensure excellent drainage.
- For water only, make sure that your plant has at least enough to cover the base of the roots. You should also change the water at least once per week to prevent the plant from rotting. It is a good idea to rinse the vase, pebbles, and plant each time you do this.
- If you are growing the plant in soil, water the plant just enough so that the soil is moist.
- Choose the right container. Your pot should be about 2 inches larger in diameter than the plant. Most Lucky Bamboo plants already come in a pot, but you can use your own pot to make the plant more your own.
- A clear container works well for water and will show off your plant and pebbles, but make sure that you keep it out of direct sunlight.
- You can also use a ceramic pot and grow it in either pure water or in soil. If you use soil, plant the bamboo in a pot with a drain hole.
- Add a very light fertilizer periodically for quicker growth. Too much fertilizer is worse than none at all, so use it sparingly. This is especially true of potted plants because the fertilizer will not become diluted by rain and can't run off like it will for plants in the ground.
EditCaring for and Styling Your Lucky Bamboo - Water sparingly. Your lucky Bamboo plant doesn't need a lot of water. In fact, too much is bad for it.[4]
- Water your plant about once a week and ensure that there's a few inches at all times, enough to cover the roots.
- If you have soil in your plant, make sure that it's not too moist or dry. Your bamboo plant can live well in just water, so over soiling or fertilizing can actually harm it.
- Keep your plant out of direct sunlight. Lucky Bamboo in the wild is usually shaded from direct sunlight by other, taller plants. You should keep your plant in an open, and bright area, but one that isn't exposed to direct sunlight all day.[5]
- To best care for your Lucky Bamboo, keep it away from windows that get a lot of light. Instead, place it in a part of your room not so exposed.
- Your Lucky Bamboo plant will also grow best in temperatures between in 65°F and 90°F.
- Arrange your stalks. If you wish to style the Lucky Bamboo plant, choose a few prime stalks to make a linked arrangement and put it on display. You can manipulate the stalks to grow around each other or curl with a bit of work; to do this you have to use younger stalks that haven't grown a lot and hardened yet.[6]
- You can simply plant your stalks in a line or rows if you want straight stalks.
- To curl your Lucky Bamboo plant, get a cardboard box and cut off the bottom and one side. Place the box over your plant with the open end facing your light source. Your stalks will begin to curl towards the light as they grow. Once you see a bend, rotate your plant.
- You can also wrap some wire around younger stalks crisscrossing them. As they grow you will add more wire to keep them stable as they intertwine.
- Remove dead or yellow leaves. Sometimes the ends of your leaves might turn yellow. This could be caused by a few factors: you plant isn't getting enough water, there's too much soil or fertilizer, or too much direct sunlight. You can trim off the yellow parts, or remove the whole leaf.
- To remove the yellowed tips of your leaves, sterilize a pair of pruning shears or sharp scissors and with light rubbing alcohol or vinegar, then cut the yellow part off following the natural shape of the leaf.
- You can remove whole leaves by simply pulling them down off the stalk at the base of the leaf.
- Propagate your plant. When one or two of your stalks gets too tall you can cut them and replant them. This will help you care for your Lucky Bamboo plant by ensuring that it doesn't get too crowded and can produce new plants.
- Take your longest stalk and remove the smaller leaves at the base of the shoot.
- With a sterile knife or scissors, cut the shoot about half an inch from where it connects to the stalk.
- Place the shoot in a bowl of clean, distilled water. Keep it in a shady area for about one to two months until it begins to sprout roots. Once you see roots, you can replant it the same pot as your bamboo plant.
- Tie the stalks in place with ribbon wire or other ribbon. People often tie a gold or red ribbon around the stalks of Lucky Bamboo plants to hold them together, and as an extra symbol of good fortune.
- Add pebbles to finish off the look and hold the arrangement in place.
- Place your Lucky Bamboo plant somewhere where you will it enjoy day and remind you to care for it.
- Using bottled spring water will ensure fast growth and a beautiful deep green color. (Tap water often has chemicals and additives that are not found in the plant's natural habitat. By watering with tap water, the leaves often turn yellow and the plant will die over time.)
- Don't overwater your plant. You only need to water about once a week.
- Don't put it in direct sunlight.
- Only add fertilizer once every two months if it all.
- Add a diluted liquid aquarium plant fertilizer (1-2 drops) if you want your plant to grow faster.
- If you notice a foul odor coming from your plant, it is probably too late to save it. Some people report that the rot that causes this can be bad for your health. So, it is best to throw the plant out and get another one if this happens. Then change the water more frequently to prevent it happening again.
- On a side note, if your bamboo has sprouts off of the main stalks, those can be saved from rot. Simply cut them off and place them in fresh water. This can prevent you from having to throw the whole plant out.
EditThings You'll Need - A small "lucky bamboo" plant
- A pot 2 inches bigger than the plant.
- A little bit of sunlight
- And some soil and fertilizer if desired.
- Purified water.
EditRelated wikiHows EditSources and Citations
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| How to Raise a Baby Squirrel Posted: 04 Apr 2017 05:00 AM PDT Have you found an orphaned baby squirrel? While it's best to return it to its mother, it is possible for you to take care of it and raise it to adulthood. Keep in mind in many states this is illegal. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator first and foremost. Raising feral animals can be tricky and is generally far more difficult and hazardous than raising an animal that has been domesticated from birth. Given the right food, shelter, and diligent care, your squirrel will thrive in your own home until it is ready to go back to the wild. EditRescuing a Baby Squirrel - Look for the baby's mother first. While you can certainly raise a baby squirrel, no one can raise it better than it's mother. So when you find a baby squirrel, it's important to always try to reunite baby and mother before doing anything else. A squirrel mama will look for her babies and reclaim them if they are warm.[1]
- Squirrel moms will not take back a cold baby because they think it is either sick or dying. So it's up to you to monitor the situation. If the baby is hurt, cold, or it's nighttime and mom does not come to get the baby within one to two hours, the baby is probably an orphan and needs your help.
- Human scent on a squirrel baby will not deter the mother from taking them back so touching them is not a worry at any point.
- If there is more than one baby and one is already dead, the mom will not take the live one(s) back. Therefore it will be up to you to rehab them and see if mom will reclaim them after some time has passed and the scent of her deceased baby subsides.
- Pick the baby up gently. Wearing thick leather gloves (just to be safe), take this chance to observe the baby and check for injuries, bugs, bleeding, bumps or wounds. If they are bleeding or you see broken bones or serious injury, you need to find a vet who will see a squirrel as soon as possible. Most vets will not see the squirrel unless you are licensed. If this is the case, call any and all rehabbers in your area immediately.
- Make the baby warm. Baby squirrels don't generate their own heat so you must do that for them. Find or borrow a heating pad, electric blanket, a hot water bottle, or even a hand warmer. A liquid heating pad that recirculates water is the best for heat control. Make sure the heating apparatus of choice's temperature is a low-to-medium temperature.
- Baby squirrels should be incubated at about . If you have a thermometer handy or can borrow one it will help you create the right environment for your baby squirrel's good health.
- Some heating pads shut off after a few hours, so check it often to be sure it is still on. If you have no option, but to raise the baby yourself, invest in a non-auto-shut-off heating pad. The baby's life depends on it. You can also place a towel over top of the container or the lid to the container with air holes punched out to keep the heat inside.
- Get a small box. Once you get what you need to warm your baby squirrel, a small box, basket or a large Tupperware about a foot square (with air holes punched out of the lid) or another similar container is needed. Place your heating device to one side. This way if it gets too hot, the baby squirrel can simply crawl away from the pad. If a heating pad is used, be sure it is under the container, not inside with the baby.
- Make a nest inside the box with nesting material from the area where you found the baby. Make a donut-shaped nest and place the baby inside. Be sure the heat source is nuzzled up against the nest but not directly in contact with the baby.
- If necessary you can use soft fabrics from your home. Do not use towels as baby squirrels can snag their toes and break ankles, lose limbs, etc.
- Try to find mama one more time. Put the nest outside. If the area is safe from dogs, cats, raccoons, and other predators you can put the nest on the ground. If you're not sure, put it up in a tree or on a pole to keep it safe.
- As your baby squirrel warms it will instinctively call for its mother. If she is around there is an excellent chance she will come and get her baby. Squirrel mothers carry their babies just like a cat so don't worry about the nest being in a tree.
EditAdopting a Baby Squirrel - Bring the nest inside. After one to two hours it's time to throw in the towel. There are many reasons why the mother may not come. She may be injured or dead, for instance. In any event, at this point the baby and your nest need to come join your household.
- If you have a dog or a cat make sure the baby has its own protected room and other animals are never allowed to have contact with the baby.
- Make sure you continue to keep the nest warm.
- Look for a squirrel rehabilitation center. Call your local vets, animal shelters, humane societies, Fish & Game, Fish & Wildlife, and Wildlife groups to get a referral for a local wildlife rehabilitator that takes in squirrels. You can also search online by typing in "squirrel rehabilitation" and your state and city.
- Go to http://www.thesquirrelboard.com for help with the baby squirrel until you find a rehabber. It is a forum that you can join and ask questions that will help you raise the baby until a rehabber is found.
- If a rehabber cannot be found, the squirrel board will help you raise the baby to release back into the wild.
- Be aware that some countries and states have strict laws about raising baby squirrels. In the United Kingdom it is a criminal offense that carries a maximum penalty of 2 years imprisonment, to rear, keep or reintroduce a grey squirrel back into the environment. Some states in the U.S., such as Washington state, have laws that make it illegal to possess or provide rehabilitation to a sick, injured, or orphaned wild animal, such as a squirrel, unless you are transporting the animal to a licensed wildlife rehabilitation for care.[2] Familiarize yourself with the laws in your area, and be aware that you may be liable for prosecution if it is illegal to raise orphaned wildlife.
- Clean your baby squirrel. Be aware that baby squirrels might have parasites such as fleas, mites, ticks and maggots. Remove the fleas and maggots by hand with flea combs and/or tweezers. Petco also sells flea and mite sprays made specifically for small animals such as hamsters. Always check to ensure this is safe for your baby. Non-chemical options such as diatomaceous earth and blue Dawn dish soap (blue only) may be used.
- If it's a tiny, pink-skinned baby, do not apply any chemicals to the squirrel. Put the spray on the cloth around the baby. Do not spray into wounds. It will sting.
- Check for dehydration. You can see how dehydrated they are by gently pinching their skin. If the "tent" of their skin stays there over a second or more, they are dehydrated. A dehydrated baby squirrel needs water as fast as possible as you don't know how long it has been since they ate or drank.
- Wrinkly, sunken eyes or appearing emaciated are also telltale signs of a dehydrated squirrel.
- Choose your liquid. Most fallen babies will be in need of water. An even better solution is to go to the supermarket or drug store and purchase Pedialyte in the baby section. They may also carry their own store brand of rehydrating baby fluid as well (Gerber has a brand also). Squirrels like fruit flavors, but plain will do if it's all they've got. Do not use Gatorade or any other sports drink.
- If you are nowhere near a store or drugstore, here is a homemade formula:
- One teaspoon salt
- Three teaspoons of sugar
- One quart of warm water
- Mix well
EditFeeding Your Baby Squirrel - Use oral syringes. These are the types of syringe that have no needle. Do not use anything larger than 5 cc syringe. The best option would be to use 1cc syringes. These can be obtained by asking your local pharmacy for some needle-less syringes.
- Check the baby's temperature. You don't need a thermometer to obtain a precise temperature, but the baby should be warm to the touch. This is a crucial step before you give it any fluids because it won't be able to digest what you're feeding it if it is not warm.
- Feed hairless, pink babies with great care. If your baby is hairless and pink it is probably also tiny, about long. It's easy to aspirate the babies when they are this little and that leads to fluid in their lungs. This will give them pneumonia and they might die. To avoid this, hold the baby upright in your hand with the syringe pointed towards the roof of their mouth. Do not force feed the baby - go as slow as the baby requires. It may take an hour to get 1cc in the baby until they learn how to suck on the syringe.
- Be sure the fluids are warm but not too hot. You can store the unused amounts in the refrigerator.
- For these little babies, just put one little drop on their lips at a time and let them suck that in. If they won't take the fluids, poke a drop in their mouth so they can taste some of it first. Some will just open their mouths wide and start sucking away.
- If their eyes are open, you can let them take the syringe in their mouth and gently give them a few drops.
- If a lot falls out of their mouth or comes out the nose, you're going way too fast. Hold them upside down immediately for 10 seconds, then blot the fluids off their nose and out of their nostrils then wait about one minute before you continue.
- Provide the proper amount. Give tiny, eyes-closed pink babies 1 cc every two hours; fully furred eyes-closed babies 1-2 cc about every two hours; open-eyed babies 2-4 cc every three hours until a rehabber calls you back with your instructions.[3]
- If the baby is gagging or unresponsive to feeding, take it immediately to a rehabber and request lactated ringers. If done properly, these should help get the baby feeding again.[4]
- Feed every two hours around the clock until the baby is two weeks old. After that, feed every three hours until their eyes open. Then feed the baby every four hours until weaned, which is between seven and ten weeks old.[5]
- Stimulate the baby squirrels. They need to be stimulated to poo and pee when their eyes are closed so before and after each feeding of fluids you will need to gently wipe the genital and anal area with a warm, moist cotton ball or Q-tip until they pee or poo. Otherwise their stomach will bloat and may result in death.
- Their mothers do this for them in the wild. If they are very dehydrated and haven't eaten in a while, they may not pee for a quite a few feedings and may not poo for a day.
- Decrease the time between feedings. If the baby is feeding well and hydrating and continuously growing without incident, feed it every hour for four to six hours. Use the following recipe as a guideline:[6]
- 1 part powdered puppy milk replacer
- 2 parts distilled water
- 1/4 part whipping cream (not whipped cream) or plain yogurt
- Warm the food. Microwaving is fine. Like liquids, introduce this soft food gradually. Like the Pedialyte, however, you will move up the feeding steps rather quickly.[7]
- Do not mix pedialyte and formula. Start with a weak formula mixture. 4 parts water to 1 part powder for 1 day. 3 parts water to 1 part powder for 1 day. 2 parts water to 1 part powder until weaning.
- Wean your baby. Once your little one is ready for solid food (when its eyes are open), you can use Rodent Blocks by Kaytee, Oxbow, or Mazuri found at most pet stores. They contain the right amount and right types of nutrients. You can also buy blocks specifically made for squirrels at HenrysPets.com. Give the squirrel blocks until he is released. [8]
- Do not introduce nuts as a first food. Start with healthy vegetables (broccoli, spring mix, kale, etc). Once the baby is eating all blocks and veggies, you can slowly introduce fruits and nuts. Give only one nut per day and only 1-2 small pieces of fruit per day.
- Like a human baby it will also let you know when it's done with formula by pushing it away.
- If your squirrel pees on the food, don't worry, it's just what baby squirrels do.
- Give them small amounts of just one food at a time to be sure it doesn't get diarrhea.
- Avoid picking acorns from the ground as many contain an invisible toxin that can quickly kill a squirrel. [9]
EditTransitioning to Adolescence - Purchase a large cage. Squirrels need room to run a bit. Make sure the cage is at least 2'2'x3' with shelves, a bed, and places to hide and climb.
- Keep a ceramic water source in the cage. If it's plastic the squirrel will chew, destroy, and possibly eat it.
- Provide it with toys to play with. Good ideas are pinecones, clean sticks, or a clean, thick dog bone. Bad ideas are anything it can rip apart, choke on, and throw the stuffing all over the place (like a bean-stuffed toy).[10]
- Include objects to grind his teeth on, as they never stop growing.
- Play with your baby squirrel. They need social interaction, especially if your baby is a loner. This should include at least one hour of outside-the-cage fun time every day. If you don't have a room safe for this, either get a larger outdoor cage for them to spend time in (you'll eventually need one anyway, but don't transfer the baby to the outdoor cage without a travel carrier) or move it to a different cage in a different part of your house. Do not allow the baby to play outside while not contained. Hawks and other predators are much faster than you and may snatch up the baby before you have a chance to react. The baby may also get spooked and run away, unable to return.
- It is a good idea to let them get used to heights and curtain rods will be a great help here. You don't want your baby to be crawling on the ground once it gets outside and many hand-raised squirrels tend to do just that, ending up easy prey for snakes, cats etc.
- Rehabilitators will pair a baby squirrel with a friend before either opens their eyes so they bond together. This is yet another reason to take the baby to a rehabilitator: two squirrels will help each other survive in the wild in a variety of ways.[11]
- A baby squirrel kept in a small cage too long can have growth deformities from the cramped spaces or from circling the small cage.
- Once the baby stops taking formula completely, stop taking the baby out. He will need to learn a natural fear of humans to ensure his safety in the wild.
- Move the rehabilitation into the wild. At four to five months of age the squirrel will need to be moved to an outside cage that is as large as possible, preferably at least six feet tall. Make sure it is predator-proof.
- Make sure it has a nesting box, sticks to play with, allows your squirrel to climb and jump on various surfaces, and is partially covered from rain. The cage should also have a solid bottom or your squirrel could pull a daring escape. If you're building one, a sally port is recommended to ensure he doesn't jump out when you're opening the door to feed him. Ensure the cage has a tiny squirrel sized door for release. This door should be around 4 inches square. This way, if a squirrel is being chased by a larger predator, he can return home safely without fear that the larger predator will follow him and trap him. When it is time for release, open this door only and allow the squirrel to venture out on his own. [12]
- Your squirrel should spend at least four weeks in its outdoor cage prior to release. During this time, it's crucial to feed wild foods so he knows what to look for.
- Let your squirrel go. Because it has no mother or siblings, you must make sure the release area is safe from dogs, cats, unfriendly neighbors, and other predators. The area should have plenty of water, food, and fruit and nut trees.
- Provide enough food for at least three weeks after release. If you release in your yard, put up a feeder and keep it regularly stocked with fresh food. After all, you already know what your squirrel likes to eat.[13]
- Putting your squirrel back in the environment where you found it is a great idea if it is safe and provides to food sources it needs.
- It's vitally important not to release your squirrel too soon. At four months a baby is woefully unprepared to survive on its own and is easy prey for predators.
- You must monitor the squirrel for the first week to make sure he is able to find food, water, and is confident in the new surroundings.
- Due to the formula, the baby's urine will have a strong, unpleasant odor. Once it is weaned, however, that smell will go away.
- Baby squirrels need company. Try to find a wildlife rehabilitator to take the squirrel so it can have friends. They learn from each other, imprint on each other, and need company to thrive.
- When you are beginning to offer your newfound friend dry nuts, make sure they are raw. Roasted/Salted nuts are not good at all. It is much easier to encourage them to eat hard-shelled nuts.
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| How to Spot Fake News Sites Posted: 04 Apr 2017 01:00 AM PDT As fake news articles become more common on social media, it's important for readers to be able to tell the difference between genuine news and a fake news story or website. Fake news sites present fictional happenings as factual, and often play into the hands of a political party or partisan group. When evaluating a news website, you'll need to look at the site itself (including the URL), at the titles and the tone of articles, and at the content and presentation of the individual news articles it publishes. EditKey Points - Search the name of the website and see whether it has a good reputation. You can also add words like "satire" or "fake" to your search terms.
- See if other news sites are reporting on the same story.
- Check the quotes and sources cited, and see if they're legitimate.
- Be extra careful of articles that seem far-fetched or evoke strong emotions (positive or negative).
EditEvaluating a News Site - See if the site is openly fictional. Some fake news sites clearly state that they are fake. However, this information may be hidden in the fine print at the bottom of an article. In these cases, fake news sites count on readers to be shocked by a sensational headline without reading through to the article's conclusion.[1]
- For example, the fake news site "WTOE 5," which published a fake news story about Pope Francis endorsing Donald Trump, openly states that it publishes "fantasy news."[2]
- Satirical articles can also be mistaken for factual news, although not by the intent of the site itself. Sites such as The Onion, the Daily Currant, Duffle Blog, and National Report publish satirical articles that are sometimes mistaken for actual news.[3]
- If you think something may be satirical, search the website's name along with the word "satire" and see what comes up.
- Check the site's URL. Fake news writers will often try to trick people by using a URL similar to that of an established news site. If you think a news site may be fake, check the URL for any extra suffixes or unexpected numbers or letters.[4]
- For example, rushed readers may be fooled by the URLs of fake news sites "nbc.com.co" and "abcnews.com.co."
- However, the extraneous ".co" is a clear giveaway that these are not the sites of the real NBC or ABC News, and that the sites likely generate fake news.
- Strange domain names usually mean that the content is also strange.[5]
- Read the "Contact Us" page. A genuine news website should provide a method for readers to reach out with questions or concerns. The site should also offer detailed information about the individuals who work there. If a website does not have a "Contact Us" page, and no way to reach the author(s), the site is likely a fake.[6]
- For example, the website of the Boston Tribune only lists an email address under the "Contact Us" section, which raises suspicion that the site may provide fake news.
- Also, if a purported news site only lists a single individual as the author of every article on the site, it is likely fake. Genuine news sites have many staff members in a variety of positions.[7]
- Notice how professional the website looks. Official news sites are usually designed by professionals who know how to make sites look good. The format should be neat, and similar to how other news sites are formatted. Bad design often means the site is not legitimate.[8]
- All caps is usually a sign that something is not professional.[9]
- News websites always use plain fonts (usually sans serif), with black text on a white or whitish background.
- Look up the website itself. Search the website's name in a search engine and see what comes up. Read the "About Us" page, and descriptions of the site such as on Wikipedia and Snopes.[10]
- Check their social media. Are they posting clickbait, and do the headlines match what the articles actually say?
- If you suspect an organization might be biased or controversial, try adding the word "controversy" to your search terms and see what comes up.
EditExamining a News Article - Look into the article's authors. Although fake news sites typically provide a byline at the top of the article and name an author, a little research on your part can help you tell if the individual exists and if the news site is genuine.[11] If no other information about the author is given on the website, or if the article does not provide a byline, you're probably looking at fake news.
- For example, if the byline of a potentially fake news article gives an author's name, Google the author and see if they have written any journalism for other sites. Reputable journalists should have multiple publications, and often a personal website as well.
- Even if a news site provides a "biography" of the suspicious author, but provides suspicious or seemingly bogus information therein, the individual may not be real.
- Genuine news sites are scrupulous about documenting their writers' achievements and providing access to contact authors and journalists.
- Check out the sources. Look into the sources and citations that the article provides. Genuine news stories will quote interviews, provide statistics, and back up their claims with references to facts. Check out the sources themselves—follow links given in the article—and make sure that these websites are factual as well.[12]
- If the article does not provide any sources for its information and does not link to any corroborating news stories, it's likely providing fake news.[13]
- If the article has no quotes, quotes from only one person, or quotes from people who don't exist, then it is likely fake.[14]
- Be wary of fake quotes. If you see a sensationalist quote, try copying the quote and pasting it into a search bar. If it's real, then it's likely that other news outlets will have the same quote.[15]
- Beware of sensationalism. Often, fake news sites try to pass off outlandish claims as being true, with the hope of shocking gullible readers. Read past the headline, and continue past the opening paragraph. If the logic of the article seems to fall apart as you continue, or if the article cites clearly inauthentic sources, you're dealing with a piece of fake news.[16]
- News stories that are extremely ridiculous or rage-inducing may be fake.[17]
- In extreme cases, the content of the article may have nothing to do with the sensationalist, attention-grabbing headline.
- The previously mentioned fake news article about Pope Francis endorsing Donald Trump is a good example of a sensationalistic piece. The article is designed to create an emotional response in specific readers (Catholics and Republicans), although the basic premise is absurd.
- Try a reverse image search if you suspect a photo could be misused or taken out of context. Sometimes fake news sites will use stock images, or steal an image from someone else. Right-click on the image and you will have the option to search Google for it. (You can also search the URL and it will offer an image search option.) This way, you can see if other news outlets are using the image, and what they are saying about it.[18]
- Sometimes it is normal to use stock images. For example, an article about healthy eating might have a stock image of food on it. However, if they are using a generic stock image and claiming that it is a specific person, it is likely that this person doesn't exist.
EditInvestigating the Authenticity of the News - Follow the history of the news. Fake news is often "recycled"; a popular fake-news story from five years ago may be resurrected by an unscrupulous site. Click through the links and sources in a potentially fake news article, and check the publication dates of every article. If a current article cites sources from a decade ago, the news is likely fake.[19]
- Fake news can also circulate internationally. For example, a fake story could originate in the United States, die out over time, and be presented as "breaking news" in the UK three years later.
- Beware of explicitly partisan news. Especially during national elections, fake news sites will publish information that plays directly into the hands of one political party. Fake news sites often accomplish this by playing into the fears of a specific group or political party, and relying on individuals in that party to believe the fake news that confirms their fears without evaluating the source for authenticity.[20]
- This phenomenon is known as "confirmation bias": individuals with strong beliefs are eager to read news that affirms those beliefs, and hesitant to believe sources that they disagree with.
- Search keywords related to the event, and see what you find. When something groundbreaking or surprising happens, multiple news outlets will report on it. If only one website is reporting on a newsworthy event, then it is unlikely that it is real.[21]
- Check fake-news debunking sites. Websites such as Snopes and FactCheck.org will fact-check bogus news stories and report on their authenticity. Before you believe a suspicious-looking news article, check a "debunking" site. These sites have the time and resources to investigate news articles and their sources, and provide unbiased evaluations of news authenticity.[22]
- When evaluating news, it can help to be a skeptical reader. Doubt claims that seem engineered to anger or shock you, and turn to sites like Snopes when in doubt.
- Fake news is often engineered to appeal to irrational readers, so by methodically evaluating the news site and article, you can prevent yourself from believing falsities.
- In order to diversify your news sources and not be fooled by fake news sites, always get your news from a variety of online sources.[23]
- Avoid sites that claim to know the date of the end of the world, or easy fixes to major problems (e.g. poverty, cancer, homelessness).[24]
EditSources and Citations - Professor Melissa Zimbdars has a list of known biased, unreliable, and fake news sources.[25]
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| How to Avoid Pain When Your Braces Are Tightened Posted: 03 Apr 2017 09:00 PM PDT Getting your braces tightened can cause a lot of discomfort. The first few hours may be very painful to nearly anyone, regardless if its your first time or your last time. You can prevent and treat pain and discomfort associated with your braces using a few different strategies. These solutions range from eating soft foods to using over the counter medicines and gels to keeping sharp the parts of your brace covered. EditRemaining Calm Before and During Tightening - Talk to your orthodontist or dentist about the procedure. If you are anxious, tell them so they can adapt your treatment.[1]
- Dentists and orthodontists are used to dealing with anxious patients.
- They will explain the procedure to you and help you handle your anxiety.
- They can also suggest ways to reduce your nervousness.
- Practice deep breathing before and during the procedure. This will provide a distraction for you and it can help to reduce your anxiety. [2]
- If you are more relaxed, you are less likely to be in a lot of pain.
- Breathe in slowly through your nose.
- Pause before exhaling slowly.
- Keep breathing slowly and steadily in a rhythm. Concentrate on this and you will be distracted from what the dentist is doing.
- Close your eyes and listen to music. Bring an iPod, phone, or music player with you and listen to music or a podcast. [3]
- Choose music that is calming, rather than something jarring and energetic.
- Alternatively, listen to an audiobook.
- Bring earbuds so other patients can't hear your music.
- Make a playlist ahead of time so you have enough music to last through your appointment.
- Some dentists or orthodontists may have televisions for you to watch during the procedure or music playing in the background to distract you.
- Some dentists' offices now have 3D virtual reality glasses, which you can wear to distract and entertain yourself during your entire procedure.
- Avoid caffeine before your appointment. Caffeine can make you more nervous and jittery. [4] It can also keep your dental anesthetic from working as well, so it might be more difficult for your gum and teeth to become numb.
- Drinks that contain caffeine include coffee, tea, sodas, and energy drinks.
- Do drink plenty of water before your appointment.
- Make sure to avoid any sugary drinks or foods before your appointment too.
- Check to make sure none of the wires are poking you before leaving. The best time to address this problem is at the the appointment before you go home.[5]
- Ask your dentist or orthodontist to trim or adjust any wires that are poking or scraping your mouth.
- If it is the brackets causing discomfort, ask your dentist to apply some dental wax to reduce any scraping.
- Remember that it is normal for your braces to feel tight and to have some throbbing in your teeth after the procedure.
EditUsing Over The Counter Medications - Take an over the counter painkiller or anti-inflammatory. Make sure you check with your doctor before doing so. [6]
- Different medications you can take include acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), and aspirin.
- Check the dosing guidelines for a schedule and amounts.
- Don't exceed the number of doses in a 24 hour period as labeled on the bottle.
- Don't take the medication more often than recommended.
- These can help take some of the aching and soreness associated with shifting teeth, but you may still experience some discomfort.
- Carry the painkiller with you so that you have it when needed.
- Take the medicine one hour before entering the office. This way it will already be in effect before your appointment.[7]
- Be sure to take the amount with at least one full 8 ounce glass of water.
- This should help to reduce any swelling and discomfort during your appointment.
- After your appointment, take a full dose of your chosen painkiller according to the time schedule on the bottle.
- Taking this on schedule for 24 hours after your appointment can help to reduce pain over the next day.
- Use an oral anesthetic to reduce discomfort. These come in gel form and are available at most pharmacies. [8]
- Gels like Oragel and Anbesol are examples of these products.
- The gel will numb any areas it contacts such as gums and teeth.
- Most are flavored, though they can have an unpleasant taste.
- Apply the gel to sore and tender areas of your mouth.
- Use a q-tip to apply the gel and to spread it.
- Try not to get the gel on your tongue; you might not feel your tongue and then bite it by accident.
EditReducing Pain After the Procedure Without Medication - Modify your diet. You should avoid any foods that require lots of chewing. [9]
- Eat a soft diet for the first 24 hours after your braces are tightened.
- Stick to foods such as Jello, pudding, mashed potatoes, applesauce, soups and smoothies.
- If you must eat something that has to be chewed, cut it into small pieces to reduce the amount of chewing you have to do.
- Use a small spoon or fork (preferably made out of plastic or wood) while eating to avoid hitting your teeth with utensils.
- Apply cold to your face and teeth to reduce pain and swelling. You can use ice packs or drink cold water. [10]
- Use a gel or soft ice pack. Apply this to your cheeks for 15 minutes.
- Drink plenty of cold water with a straw.
- The cold from the water will help to numb your teeth and reduce the swelling in your gums.
- Rinse your mouth frequently. Use a recommended mouthwash or salt water. [11]
- Mix a teaspoon of table salt into a glass of lukewarm water.
- Swish the salt water around your mouth for 60 seconds.
- This may sting any scrapes or sores you have from your braces at first, but will help to keep these clean and speed up healing.
- Do the same with any mouthwash recommended by your dentist.
- Brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush. Using a regular toothbrush might cause more discomfort. [12]
- Remember to brush your teeth and braces at least twice a day.
- Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth, such as Sensodyne.
- Sensodyne can help to reduce sensitivity and pain in your teeth due to tightened braces.
- Use dental wax on any wires or brackets that are scraping your mouth. This will protect you cheeks, lips and gums from scrapes and cuts.[13]
- Ask your dentist or orthodontist for a supply of dental wax. You can also buy this at pharmacies.
- Apply a small amount of the wax to brackets and protruding wires in the morning after brushing your teeth.
- Remove any wax before brushing your teeth at night.
- Discard any used wax as it builds up bacteria.
- Try to sleep without dental wax on, but if you have a very troublesome wire it is ok to use this product at night.
- Keep your dental wax with you during the day in case you need to re-apply a small amount.
- Apply a flouride gel three times a week. You should do this especially if your teeth are sensitive to cold things. In general, this gel can help with cavity prevention and tooth sensitivity. Sometimes you need a prescription for brush-on flouride gel, so you should talk to your dentist about it before you use it.[14]
- There are also flouride gels that your dentist can apply to your teeth about twice a year. Talk to your dentist about this option if you're concern about the sensitivity of your teeth or the possibility of getting cavities.[15]
- Make sure you have plenty of soft foods to eat after your braces are tightened.
- If you are experiencing an unusual amount of discomfort, call your orthodontist. They might want to re-adjust your braces.
- Don't take more than the recommended dosage of any anti-inflammatory medications.
- Drink plenty of cold water after your appointment.
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