How to Choose a Diet That Helps Animals

There are a lot of ways that you can help animals. You could, for example, volunteer at an animal shelter, foster pets who are waiting to be adopted, or donate to a non-profit. But one of the most impactful ways – as well as one of the easiest ways – to help animals around the world is by making smarter and kinder eating choices.

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Consider Going Plant-Based

By now, with all of the studies on nutrition, and all of the news about climate change, you’ve undoubtedly heard about the plant-based diet. This is a diet that eliminates all animal products, and it’s easier than ever to follow this healthy way of eating. Of course, there are loads of resources and forums online that you can turn to, but you can also get valuable advice from a licensed dietitian and nutritionist.

There are many benefits associated with eliminating meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, and any other products that come from animals. For example, a plant-based diet can help reduce your risk of developing a range of diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and heart problems. It can also help you slim down if you’re overweight, and it’s a great way to increase your intake of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that support overall health. And, don’t worry, there is plenty of protein to be had when you consume a plant-based diet!

How a Plant-Based Diet Helps Animals

By following a diet that’s focused on plants, rather than animals, it’s obvious that you’ll be saving animals. Because you won’t be consuming meat, you won’t be contributing to inhumane farming practices, and you won’t be contributing to animals being sent to the slaughterhouse. All you have to do to discover the horrors that farm animals go through is a simple internet search. Many undercover investigations at farms and slaughterhouses have proven for many years that what is most common in animal agriculture, is horrific conditions and abuse.

By changing the way that you eat and following a whole-foods, plant-based diet, you can get all of the nutrition that you need while indulging in a wide range of flavors. At the same time, you’ll be reducing the demand for animal products, so producers will need to turn to other modes of making money, such as investing in plant-based meat and dairy alternatives – something that many brands have already done in order to keep up with consumer demand around the globe.

The Plant-Based Diet Also Helps Wildlife

Following a plant-based diet does even more to help animals because it can also support wildlife. When you consider the immense amount of space required for factory farms and slaughterhouses, as well as the land that’s cleared for grazing free-range animals, and the pollution that’s caused by animal agriculture, you begin to understand the environmental impact that an animal-based diet has. Ranchers even go so far as to kill wildlife to protect their farm animals. And let’s not forget about overfishing, which is taking its toll on the oceans.

It’s clear to see that there are many great reasons to choose a compassionate diet to help animals every day, so go ahead and give it try.  

5 Humane Ways to Rid your Home of Mice

Nothing is worse than the irritating sound of mice in the attic, and nothing shames a host during a party like guests spotting a mouse in the living room. It’s unfortunate that mice don’t discriminate where they choose to live, so even homes that are more expensive are not immune to getting invaded by mice. They are unhygienic, carry diseases, gnaw electricity and internet cables, and damage walls and get into the food in your pantry.


If you have been trying to get rid of mice, you must have established that this isn’t the easiest thing to do since they are small enough to squeeze through the tiniest of openings, and can climb and make nests in areas that you can’t even access, not to mention they are prolific breeders. Some people hate mice so much that all they think of is poisoning and killing them without considering how inhumane it is to kill them in such a horrible way. If you can’t imagine yourself doing such a thing, then you must then find alternative ways of getting them out of your home, and keeping them from returning. This can involve hiring rodent control exterminators that will remove the mice in a humane way, or you can try these alternatives:


  1.  Smart Mouse Traps

    Smart trapping, or live trapping, is a technique that enables homeowners to catch mice without killing or injuring them. It involves mice holding cells that are built like small houses with doors the size of an adult mouse. All you do is place cheese or peanut butter inside of them as bait, and once the mouse enters it and eats the bait, the door snaps shut trapping the rodent inside. You can then set it free at a location away from your home, wash the trap, and then reuse it. Just don’t make the mistake of freeing them near a dumpster where they can multiply and come back to your home.

    Note: Some smart traps are spacious enough to trap and hold more than 30 mice at once.

    2. Ultrasonic Noises

    If you don’t want to trap then release the mice, why not irritate them with weird noises until they run away? There are mice repelling devices which make noises that are only audible to rodents so you’ll never hear a thing. You can buy one for less than $20 and plug it near the area where you suspect the mice are nesting.

  2. Repulsive Predator Smells

    Mice, just like other rodents, have a strong sense of smell which they use to detect the presence of predators within their space. You can use this against them by placing used kitty litter strategically around the home, giving them a false alarm that there are predators everywhere. If you don’t own a cat, then don’t worry because there are many chemicals out there which imitate the scent of cats. These include mothballs, ammonia solution, and peppermint, all of which will scare mice away when placed near their nests. You will, however, need to replace them regularly as the scent fades away with time.
  3. Rodent Strobe Lights

    Most rodents hate when high-intensity lights flash around their nests. Rodent strobe lights build on this concept and make the home very uncomfortable for the mice. You will need to install several of these devices around their favorite hiding areas such as the attic, dark rooms, and food storage locations, and keep them on for both day and night until you are sure the mice are gone. While you’re at it, ensure that all rooms in the home are well organized to eliminate the chance of the mice relocating their nests from the attic, for example, to another area within the home.

  4.  Sealing Up their Entry Points

    Once the rodents are out of your home then you need to make sure they don’t return by sealing up any suspected entry points. You probably have tried this method already, but did you do it the right way? If you sealed everywhere but left an opening as small as half an inch, then you didn’t completely prevent them from finding a way back in. It could be the space under your exterior doors, plumbing spaces, or where cables from the exterior enter the house. You will achieve better results by closing all the doors and windows, switching off the lights to make the interior completely dark, and then noting all the light openings. Seal them with wire mesh or, in the case of door openings, replace the weather-strip material.

    While there are many ways to rid your home of mice, the five that we have discussed are both effective and humane. They are proof that you don’t have to be cruel to animals in order to keep them under control. One last tip: keep your home interiors and exteriors tidy at all times as this will significantly reduce the breeding areas for rodents.

    Sources:


https://www.mnn.com/your-home/at-home/blogs/5-humane-critter-catchers
https://www.nytimes.com/2000/10/01/realestate/your-home-eliminating-hospitality-for-rodents.html
https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/property/966699/how-to-get-rid-of-mice-in-the-home-pest-control
https://www.humanepestcontroltips.com/rodent-strobe.shtml

Different Humane Ways to Remove Wildlife from your Attic

If you have ever had to deal with an unwanted animal in your attic, you know that simply shooing them away is hardly enough to get them to leave without coming back. Even if you are an animal lover, having a raccoon or rats in your attic can be annoying and even dangerous. You constantly have to deal with strange noises and if they decide to chew their way through your attic, you could be looking at thousands of dollars’ worth of damage.

Calling a wildlife removal expert may help you get rid of the problem, but make sure whoever you call only removes them in a humane fashion. If however you are a DIY kind of person that thinks they can tackle the job themselves, then here are a few suggestions that will help you eliminate the unwanted guests without harming them:

1. Know your enemy

Different animals will require different methods to get rid of. The first step is to determine the species of the animal inhabiting the attic. The easiest way to know which animal is in your attic is by the noises it makes. Scampering or scurrying noises coupled with gnawing and squeaking at night shows the presence of rodents like rats or squirrels. Purrs, whimpers, growls, screams, and hisses indicate that you might have a raccoon problem. You can also check the openings where the animals are getting in and out to get an idea of the size of the animal.

2. Make them know they are not welcome

Once you know what you’re dealing with, it’s time to show them that they are not welcome. When animals inhabit your attic, they are usually looking for a safe, warm, and dark place to stay especially if they want to have babies. As such, your job is to transform your attic into the worst place possible for the animals to call home. Here are some effective tactics to convince your furry visitors that they moved to the wrong place:

a) Predator smell – Nothing will have pests running faster than the thought of being trapped with a dangerous animal out to kill them. Place a used dog or cat blanket as close as possible to the area where the animals are living in your attic. The smellier the blanket the better. You can even soak it in dog or cat urine, or purchase fox urine for even better results.

b) Make a lot of noise – You can’t afford to leave the animals alone. If they get comfortable, they could multiply easily so you need to keep them on their paws. Periodically, go into your attic and make some noise. Blow whistles, clang pots and pans, honk air horns and create as much chaos as possible. You can even have a wireless stereo up there playing loud rock music whenever you suspect they’re there. Make sure you are making the noise during the sleeping times of the animals, but be careful when setting this up since some of the animals, like raccoons, can be aggressive when provoked.

c) Turn on the lights – The next step is to make sure the attic is well-lit at all times, day and night.

3. The wait

Once you’ve utilized all these scare tactics, it’s time to give the animals some time to move out. This should happen within 48 hours. If the animal had babies, you need to give her time to get her babies moved to a new location. If you don’t, they will never leave and will force their way back into your attic just to get their babies.

4. Use traps

If you’ve tried the above tactics and the animal still refuses to leave, you may need to use a trap. There are currently many types of traps available for purchase that will work on different animals without harming them. However, trapping should only be used as a last resort particularly for raccoons or squirrels that have babies. Also make sure you check the traps daily just so you don’t starve them to death by trapping them to where they can’t get food or water.

5. Ensure they don’t get back

Once you’ve gotten rid of all the unwanted guests, you need to ensure they never find a way to get back into the attic. Block all possible entryways with strong netting or thick boards, and trim back tree branches that the animals may have used to jump onto the roof.

Sources

http://www.wildlifehotline.com/welcome/mammals/raccoons/evicting-raccoons/

http://www.ftwl.org/node/28

https://news.nationalgeographic.com/2016/04/160424-raccoons-animals-science-washington-wildlife/

Humane Methods of Wildlife Control

If you’ve had a problem with wildlife invading in your property, then you know how frustrating it is to deal with them. They like sneaking into homes with hollow spaces beneath porches, attics, basements, wall insulations, and other warm pockets. Some animals can scratch through weak walls and even erect nests around your property. The worst you can imagine is when they begin to chew your property and also dig up your lawn. Trying to remove or control them on your own is not easy, so whether they are rats, mice, squirrels, raccoons, bats, opossums or other dangerous animals, it is vital to contact a wildlife control professional for help.

Even though wildlife invasion is a nuisance and can deprive you of your comfort and safety, it is recommended to remove them through humane ways. For instance, certain states cannot allow you to trap and locate animals without proper legal permits. Below are some of the suggested humane methods for wildlife removal from around homes.

Exclusion by Net-Proofing

It involves the use of a gnaw-proof netting that helps to exclude animals from entering a home. It doesn’t include any trapping whatsoever. A mesh can also be installed by burying it underneath the soil to help bar burrowing animals from finding their way in. This method is excellent if you’re planning to prevent damage such animals cause to gardens. A vinyl-coated mesh is stronger and preferable.

Use of Frightening Devices

This is a non-chemical way of eradicating animals from invading your home. Frightening devices come in different types including visual, audio, audio-visual and biological. Visual devices are things like effigies or plastic owls. These devices have scary eyes that control unwanted animals like raccoons and squirrels. Devices that move are very effective. A spotlight with laser pointer or pistol can also be used to drive away animals at night. When using these devices, it is advisable to use them in safe and humane ways. They should not point directly to the eyes. The beams should point parallel to the ground.

The use of audio-visual devices that use both sight and sound are excellent for rural settings. They can disperse birds from living on building tops and erecting nests.

Use of Sonic Net Technology

This is a new method of deterring animals and birds. It involves the use of directional speakers that scare away problematic birds that are prone to building nests on the property. The sound doesn’t have to be so loud. It uses a combination of waveforms that is commonly called colored noise. It also helps to reduce losses caused in agricultural fields and gardens.

Use of All-Natural Repellents

Use of harsh chemicals to kill wildlife isn’t good either. With the introduction of organic repellents, you can flush out and control animals around your home safely and naturally. However, you need to understand the type of animals on your property. If it is birds, then ensure that the state or federal government do not protect them before you remove them. To control unprotected birds, you can use methods such as propane noisemakers, plastic bird spikes, liquid repellents, reflective bird tapes and more. The materials you use should be EPA-registered.

Repellents contain ingredients that aren’t pleasant, and birds cannot tolerate although they are eco-friendly. Avian Migrate is the best since it is eco-friendly and non-lethal. A portable spray can be used to disperse the solution in the habitat where birds live.

Propane noisemakers aren’t harmful to birds. However, they can be a bit pricier and need proper maintenance. Bird spikes are excellent and can be used around building ledges. Unlike steel counterparts, plastic spikes are very safe.

Habitat Modification Method

Modifying the habitat of these animals can also help flush them out for good. Habitat modification can limit the access of these animals to requirements such as shelter, food, and water. Seeds and pet food should be kept in well-sealed containers to help remove their sources of food.

Cracks and holes can be sealed to prevent animals from gaining access to the property. It helps to control animals such as bats and rodents. Firewood, garden debris, and other building supplies should be kept above the ground to limit hiding grounds.

Bottom Line

Animal invasion can be a severe annoyance. Apart from posing a danger to your health, they also damage your property. In case you’ve identified wild animals in your property, then the above are the humane ways that are recommended for safe removal. You can also get a consultation from a professional.

References:

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nuisance_wildlife_management#Control_methods

http://wildlifecontroltraining.com/training/wildlife-control-methods/

 

Security in Public Spaces Made Easy

Nowadays, people view public spaces very differently than the countless generations before them. Why is that important? Because the relationships that individuals forge with the spaces around them are critical to daily life. But as important as public spaces and commons may be, many urban spaces in this country are neglected, which can lead to decay. Even so, that’s not the only issue. Many arguments about public spaces revolve around institutional disregard and completely omit the impact of latent cultural anxiety.

There’s a major link between terrorism and public anxiety. As attacks in public spaces continue to hold a place in the public consciousness, these impact how Americans view their spaces. According to Pacific Standard: “As these threats endanger public spaces, they also have serious implications on the private, innermost workings of everyday citizens’ psyches.” The consequences of such horrific events aren’t limited to Americans, either.

A catalogue of three years worth of terrorist attacks which unfolded exclusively on European soil (and only those that involved vehicles) highlights premeditated strikes from London and Paris to Barcelona and Berlin. Worst of all is the fact that very little can be done to prevent them without totally reconceptualizing public security. Unfortunately, that typically means comprises have to be made and the right mindset must be deliberately cultivated.

Fortunately, there are practical guides to situational awareness. Reviewing them is likely to be a sound strategy for anyone intent on developing an appropriate mindset. As one such guide explains, “people practicing situational awareness can detect attack steps, avoid danger themselves, and alert the authorities to protect others.” In other words, universally practiced situational awareness sets the stage for more robust public security.

Of course, we can’t place all of our trust and confidence in human factors. That’s because people are inherently fallible — they make mistakes and misinterpret behaviors. What’s threatening to one person might be considered tolerable by another. How can the authorities address that limitation? The answer is through technology. A poll suggests that Americans overwhelmingly support increased public surveillance to help mitigate growing threats, and that’s relatively unsurprising given the frequency and severity of planned terrorist attacks.

Despite the fear-mongering media headlines, authorities have never been better at thwarting terrorism, whether it be foreign or domestic. Many governments can now turn to industry experts to implement safeguards and security countermeasures. The same enterprise security risk management solutions that shield Fortune 500 brands can also be utilized by cities. Though implementations can look very different, the expected outcomes and goals are identical. Polls already indicate that citizens are willing to compromise privacy in exchange for greater peace of mind. It’s likely they would also be willing to direct taxes to such initiatives, especially if research can demonstrate that these activities would yield meaningful results.

Suffice it to say that anxiety in public spaces is definitely well-justified. Recent history has done nothing to convince us that unexpected terrorism is about to go by the wayside. In fact, evidence suggests that things could probably get much worse before they get perceivably better. That isn’t to say that paranoia should take hold, but rather to further stress the centrality of what’s been introduced. Never underestimate how vital it is to feel safe and secure in public.

Signs That You Are Ready To Have a Pet and Care For It Appropriately

A pet can help make a family complete as pets truly become a part of the family over the course of time. The loss of a pet can be more devastating than anything as we often look to our pets for comfort. Pets of all kinds can tell the emotions that you are having so many do actually try to console you if you are upset for some reason. The truth is that not all people are ready for a pet or deserve a pet as animal abuse is much more rampant than many people think. The following are signs that you and your family can have a pet that will be cared for appropriately.

It Won’t Be A Strain Financially

Themoneyalert.com notes that if you are going to have a pet that you need to be able to take care of it health wise and this costs money. Vet bills can be enormous for even some of the most routine of procedures if they are invasive. There are going to be some pets like dogs that are going to eat quite a bit. This gets expensive when the dog needs a special type of food due to having a sensitive stomach. For those families that are living paycheck to paycheck, a pet it just not right for you at this time.

Your Kids Are Good With Animals

The last thing that you want is to have to put your pet down due to it attacking your child. Certain children and animals simply do not mesh as there are kids that do not understand how to handle pets. If you have children that often times abuse animals you need to avoid getting a pet as a pet cannot tell you when it is being abused. After this you need to get your child mental help as abuse towards animals is caused by an underlying mental issue.

You Have Enough Room

There are going to be certain breeds of dogs that are just too large to live in an apartment. Even if they can live there they could tear the entire apartment up due to boredom or excess energy. This does not mean that you cannot have a dog in an apartment but you need to make sure that they get their daily exercise no matter what. If you are living in a studio do not opt for a Husky or Great Dane, but rather get a smaller dog that thinks the studio is their palace.

You Have Knowledge Or Are Willing To Learn About The Pet

Getting a pet that you know nothing about is fine as long as you are willing to learn how to care and train the pet. The internet allows people to learn things that would have taken firsthand experience in the past. You can learn to housetrain your dog through YouTube videos rather than having to send them to an obedience class. Utilize these resources that technology has given you if you need to learn a bit more about your pet.

A pet can change a family dynamic so make sure this is understood. Pets are valuable to emotional health and this is something to keep in mind as well.

New Trend Predictions with Potential to Disrupt the Pet Industry

The pet industry is one of the healthiest markets, as more consumers are proving that money isn’t an object when it comes to their furry companions. It’s one of the most financially lucrative industries, with several pet brands experiencing record sales and growth numbers.

The current state of the pet industry has certainly drawn a lot of attention from those looking to get a piece of the action. With that being said, the timing is perfect for new innovations and opportunities. Some of the possible new trends are highlighted below.

Mobile veterinarians.

“On demand mobile veterinarians are sure to shake things up in the coming years. We’re already seeing this in San Francisco with VetPronto. It’s another way that technology and a shift in an existing industry is focusing more on the consumer with convenient access to vets on their terms.“ — Sean Christman, Founder of Slamdot

Pet location products.

“A product that helps locate lost pets – especially dogs. Local social media sites like Nextdoor are filled with more lost pets than any other discussion topic. For tons of reasons, pets get loose and owners have trouble finding them.” — Matthew Kolb of All High Schools

Smart collars.

“I can see smart collars becoming even more advanced. GPS capabilities combined with a fit tracker is something I can see owners buying. Fitness is becoming more of a priority for many, and people tend to treat their pets like humans, so why wouldn’t they take advantage of fit options for pets.” — Jim Epton of Dom Huga Ltd

Pet monitoring.

“Technology to monitor our pets. With GPS devices and implants already in the market the clear next step is smartphone, and desktop-based applications to utilize the data, connecting with pet health care providers, as well as enhancements in pet wearable designs and details.” — Shawn Freeman, Founder and CEO of TWT Group

More specialized services.

“More personalized and one-to-one service offerings such as in-home training and grooming. Businesses that offer services tailored to a customer’s needs and capitalizing on convenience (saving pet owners time) can thrive.” — Shawn Schulze of HomeArea.com

Pet tracking.

“Pet tracking technology has come a long way. Being able to find a lost animal in real time has allowed many pet owners the benefit of not worrying when they have a loved pet missing. Adding to this will continue to help.” — Marc Webb, Founder of Real PDL Help

Specialized custom accessories.

“I see specialized pet accessories really taking off. There has been a noticeable increase in the number of customized accessories and clothes, and I think when you combine that demand and interest with the ability to produce and ship via e-commerce, it’s a trend that will continue to grow.” — Andrew Tran, Founder of Therapy

Camera equipped accessories.

“I think we are going to see more camera equipped pet accessories, like collars. Look at the fascination with GoPro’s and point of view angles. With the cost of cameras coming down along with the ability to get quality video from small devices, it creates a huge opportunity.” — Ari Evans of AAA Handbags

Improved smart technology.

“Smart technology, similar to what pet owners use on their smartphone, will become more and more common. Automated feeding systems, pet cameras and even wearable tech like collars that track steps are going to be the next big thing in the pet industry.” — Joseph W. Belluck of Belluck & Fox, LLP

Health tracking.

“It looks like apps that track your pet’s medical history, current health, and everything else will be the next big thing to disrupt the pet industry. Like the smart devices available to us, I think people will start to use the same for their pets.” — Ben Walker, Founder of Transcription Outsourcing, LLC

Use of smart chips.

“I think we will see more advanced smart chips, which will allow owners not only track and monitor their pet’s location, but also access data pertaining to health tracking, similar to what iPhone health app or a Fitbit gives us access to. I think it’s something pet owners will embrace.” — Tom Munroe, CEO of RugStudio

More on-demand pet focused services to launch.

“I can see more on-demand pet services launching. Things like on-demand dog walking or pet grooming are convenient and there is a massive market for them. I see these types of services gaining popularity and maybe even some larger companies acquiring some established ones to get a head start.” — Michael Herron of The Law Offices of Michael R. Herron, P.A

New organic brands.

“I see more organic and health cautious brands coming to market. You have seen it in the human food market, as everyone is obsessed with organic and healthy foods. This is only going to spill over to the pet industry and more brands will turn their focus on this niche within the market.” — Christopher Dziak, CEO of Pure Nootropics

Saving African Elephants One Comic at a Time

Knowledge is power. With so much misinformation about endangered species it’s important for the world to understand the facts. Ivory Ghosts is an informational comic about the real issues behind the ivory trade. Although there is an international ban on ivory trade, poaching is still a crisis. Elephants continue to suffer horrendous fates as their populations dwindle.

Publisher Debbie Lynn Smith, along with writer Dr. Caitlin O’Connell, inker Laurie Foster, colorist Leizl Buenaventura, and letterer Saida Temofonte have all teamed up to create a work of art. Ivory Ghosts is the first comic book in a series that is not only mysterious and entertaining but also an excellent tool for educating people about what is currently happening in the illegal ivory trade.

Protagonist Catherine Sohon is tasked with conducting an elephant census in Caprivi Bushveld, Namibia. Soon she discovers that the threat to elephant lives is more complex than she could have imagined. Poachers, politics, and corruption all play a part in the declining population, while a quadruple homicide raises the stakes. The stunning artwork and breathtaking depictions will completely immerse you in the adventure.

Ivory Ghost is bringing awareness to real life issues. It is spreading knowledge of the illegal ivory trade in a unique and powerful way. You can truly feel the passion of the writer and the urgency of the situation as you page through and are transported to another world by the beautiful artwork. Ivory Ghosts is a must read for elephant lovers and conservationists everywhere. 

Pick up a copy HERE

 

Why Pets Can Reduce Entrepreneurs’ Stress & Anxiety

Pets are considered to be a man’s best friend. This statement is extremely true and can be proven through various facts. Take for example a person who comes back from a long day of work. The way that your pet greets you with enthusiasm actually does help to relieve most stress. This case is particularly true for hard-working entrepreneurs.

Being a successful entrepreneur is not an easy job. It requires a lot of blood, sweat and hard work. This is why a pet can play an important role in helping to relieve some of the stress as well as anxiety that many entrepreneurs deal with on a daily basis.

Generally, there are other techniques such as yoga and meditation which do help in relieving stress from our day to day lives, but a pet is also a very effective solution. While our human friends do provide social support, our furry and feline friends can help us in regard to dealing with stress and anxiety.

Pets can play a big part in reliving  entrepreneurs’ health. Some of the major benefits of owning a pet in terms of reducing stress and anxiety include the following:

Improving Your Mood

One of the simple ways that your pet helps to relieve stress is because when you see your pet after a day’s work your mood automatically improves. It is actually more psychological and there are various studies which actually prove this point.

“When you see the happy look on your pet’s face it psychologically impacts your mind in such a way that you automatically become happy. Having a pet on the other side of your door can quickly aid a stressful day,” says Jake Braun of ChopperExchange.

There is a study which discovered that people suffering from aids actually suffered less from depression if they owned a pet. The mood improvement can be substantial.

Providing Unconditional Love

Another way that an entrepreneur’s pet can help reduce stress and anxiety is by showing their owner unconditional love. A pet can be there for you in any situation, at any time, which can be helpful in the event that one lives alone or doesn’t have a lot of friends.

“Pets are known to offer companionship and give unconditional love to their owners, which can help to change one’s mood almost instantly,” says Luqman Khan, founder of Wireloo. They are known to be excellent cuddlers as well, with research showing that a pet is the best anecdote to combat loneliness. Another study has shown that residents of nursing homes find it less lonely if there are pets present.

Pets Reduce Stress More Than People

Another way that your pet helps entrepreneurs is by reducing stress much more than people. Pets are good listeners, which might sound a bit ridiculous, but many experts say that talking to your pet is relaxing and can be more beneficial than speaking to a human.

Usually, entrepreneurs are busy in their day to day activities — seeking out someone to talk to isn’t always a top priority. This is where pets come into the picture. “Having a pet as your best friend can help reduce stress and anxiety, as you literally have a support system willing to listen at any given time,” explains Christopher VanDeCar, CEO of Optimally Organic. Sometimes just talking out what is frustrating you can help, even if you are speaking to your pet. Simply getting it off your chest helps.

Controls Blood Pressure Better than Drugs

An entrepreneur’s life, especially one that is just starting out, can be very hectic. The stress of work will often cause blood pressure to rise. This is where pets come into the picture. “There are scientific studies which actually prove that pets do help in controlling blood pressure and are a much better option than taking any kind of medication or drugs,” says Darryl Howard of Boca Raton Med Spa.

There might be drugs which actually help in reducing blood pressure, but they are not that effective when it comes to controlling spikes in the blood pressure due to tension and stress. There was a study conducted on people who owned pets and the ones who did not, and the study conclusively proved that people having a pet had lower heart rates and blood sugar than compared to the ones who did not have pets.

 

“Comfort Women” Dealt with a blow After South Korean Court Rejects Damages Suit

On Friday a South Korean Court threw out a damage suit that had been filed by the former women group that sought compensation of approximately $91,000 for each victim.

This followed a bilateral agreement between South Korean and the Japanese governments. The suit had been filed in 2016 at a Seoul District Court. The group was demanding compensation for what they termed as mental and financial damages that they had suffered as a result of the agreement between the two governments back in 2015.

The agreement which was lauded internationally was meant to officially and permanently resolve the issue of South Korean women that were forced to work in Japan’s military brothels during the war.

Despite rejecting the damages suit, the court acknowledged the fact that the agreement made in 2015 between South Korea and Japan was shallow and it did not address all the issues faced by the comfort women group. Nonetheless, the court defended the government saying that the entire agreement cannot be quashed because of the flaws that it exhibits. It said that the efforts made by the government were positive and that the two governments still had an opportunity to address the pressing issues that were pending.

“The ruling made by the District Court today has legitimized the 2015 agreement between South Korea and Japan despite the comfort women testimonies and we clearly understand why. We are definitely going to contest this decision in the court of appeal” said the plaintiff’s lawyer.

The women also criticized the decision by the District courts judged saying that it went against an earlier ruling in 2011 by South Korea’s constitutional court. The constitutional court had downplayed the 2015 agreement between South Korea and Japan declaring it unconstitutional since it did not resolve the major issues that the comfort women had raised. The Court in its decision said that the women victims had not been adequately compensated and that the Japanese government had not shown any tangible measures of doing so.

The agreement which was signed in 2015 and witnessed by foreign ministers from both Japan and South Korea had sought to mend relations between the two countries for the sake of social and economic cooperation in the region. Although there was some resistance especially among civil rights groups in South Korea, many people and leaders around the world lauded the agreement terming it as the beginning of a new chapter of peace in the region.

Under the 2015 deal, Japan apologized the suffering South Korean comfort women had undergone in the hands of its military and pledged to pay up to $8.8 million as compensation to a South Korean Foundation that supports the victims. This agreement had been reached out by the two governments with the aim of restoring good relationships between the two countries that had greatly deteriorated over the years. The Japanese government expressed remorse for the victims and said that it regrets the actions the South Korean women had undergone.

The agreement has however not been fully implemented due to partial opposition from the victims and a section of the South Korean public. The victims allege that the agreement signed in 2015 did not take into account their grievances and was rushed through by a few people.

The lawsuit had been filed by the comfort women with the support of a civil rights group that has been fighting for the rights of comfort women stories. The civil groups and Korean comfort women, however, say that the ruling made by the court has not dampened their spirits to pursue justice. However, the two governments are determined to bring lasting relations between South Korea and Japan.