State-of-the-art Ionic Air Purifier - Overlooked Bird Flu CounterShield?

27 August 2008 may prove to be a pivotal point in mankind's war against the much-feared bird flu pandemic. On that day, Sharp Corporation unveiled its latest technological weapon against the unseen enemy! Incorporated in its ionic air purifier, the Plasmacluster Ion Technology (more on this in a later post) has just been scientifically proven to be 99.9% effective in eliminating the bird flu virus known as H5N1.

With increasing regularity, the press reminds us that bird flu is the prime suspect to cause mankind's next pandemic. Pandemic does not just sound terrifying. It is. That’s when a highly contagious and deadly virus goes global, in a very negative sense. 50 million people may die in a global pandemic. No way, you say. But its happened before, during the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic! That was blamed on the H1N1 virus which was only recently confirmed on 5 October 2005 by the World Health Organization (WHO) to be a bird flu virus.

PANIC STATIONS! PANIC STATIONS?

Not quite, not yet anyway. WHO statistics (updated up to 10 Sep 2008) tracing back to 1996 when the H5N1 virus first surfaced in China shows a relatively low death toll of 245. So what’s the fuss? Scientists monitoring the virus fear that it may mutate into a form that transmits from human to human. As of now, there has been only one probable case of human-to-human transmission recorded in Thailand in September 2004. But if the dreaded virus mutation takes place, you can expect pandemonium on a global scale.

Countries around the globe are conscientiously preparing for the worse (more on this in a later post). At our individual level, we should start doing some homework too.

Ok, so what’s all this got to do with Sharp’s ionic air purifier. Isn’t it just another ionic air purifier? Yes, it's ordinary in that it takes care of the usual stuff that we look for in an air purifier – dust, dirt, smoke, dander, pollen, cuisine and pet odours, pollutants, allergens etc. But if we can get protection from all these and more in one ionic air purifier, especially one that is a tested defense shield against a potentially deadly virus, why not? With Sharp's Plasmacluster Ion Air Purifier, the whole complete package is promised.

Obviously, for the value-conscious, the next logical question would be “yes, that makes a whole lot of sense but at what cost”? Sharp claims that it's at no extra cost! Sharp contends that it is cheaper than any other competing ionic air purifier when measured over 5 years. Wow, value for money sure gets my attention! But, how is this possible in this nothing-is-for-free world?

Yes, its possible, claims Sharp. For instance, in its Plasmacluster Ionic Air Purifier Model FP-N40CX, Sharp contends that it is undoubtedly better value for money as there is no filter replacement costs for the first 5 years. Upfront costs at US$399 for the Sharp model is higher than the typical competitor's US$160. But the latter requires annual filter replacement costs of US$100, adding to a total cost of US$560 over 5 years.

If you have relevant data, be it on Sharp or the competitors, I would greatly appreciate your input. Just email me if you have actual data.

In the meantime, I'm going to investigate intently the Sharp Plasmacluster Ion Technology. Now is the time to research, while bird flu is still not quite at pandemic proportions.

Its never too soon to get ready. I have been there. Imagine thousands of frantic people going from drugstore to drugstore looking for the same face mask. The N95 mask was touted as the only effective weapon as a near-pandemic scare gripped Asia. SARS! Four letters that struck terror in Asia. The SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) virus started spreading from Asia, infected 8,096 people around the world, resulting in 774 fatalities. Being well prepared is half the battle won.

Watch this space as we track exciting developments in our pursuit of safe, pure and clean air with nothing more than an ionic air purifier.

To easily receive updates on new articles, subscribe to The Ionic Air Purifier Blog today.

Here's A Quick Way To Potty Train Your Puppy

You may have just brought home an adorable new puppy pal! Beside enjoying your little pal, you also want to protect your home so your furnishings and carpets aren't ruined. Now what are you going to do?

One of your first jobs is to teach your puppy where to relieve himself so your home won't be damaged. How can that be accomplished?

Grab your free dog training course and learn more about how to house puppy train.

Dogs act mainly from habits that have been developed over a period of time and that fact can help you as a dog owner. As the dog owner, you need to install the habits of your choice. Don't let your pet create his own habits that you might not appreciate. Puppies have limitations it would be well to keep in mind. Your puppy's bladder is very small, so he can't wait very long before having to urinate. Understanding and patience will help you deal with your puppy's limitations.

Yelling or screaming at your puppy if there is an accident won't help. You need to keep in mind that patience is critical while training your new pal. If your puppy has an accident on the living room carpet, be gentle with him. Tell him "no" in a gentle way. Then pick him up and place him where you do want him to go potty. Then tell him to go potty in that place in your own words.

Dogs don't want to soil their beds, so if you use a crate for him to sleep in, that will help your puppy potty training efforts. Your dog may enjoy owning his own dog playpen as you train him.

Be aware that there are certain times when your new pal is more likely to want to relieve himself. First thing in the morning is one of the times when your puppy will need to relieve himself. Your little pal will need to go potty after eating -- such as right after breakfast or after any other meal. Be sure to take your puppy to his designated toilet area before he goes to bed at night. Right after romping around for a while, your pal will probably want to go potty.

Your new pet needs close supervision. If he goes potty on his own outside, be sure to praise him immediately. If he should go potty inside the house, you need to gently but sternly let him know that isn't the right place to go. Be sure to praise your puppy when he does go in the correct place. He really needs your approval.

Your puppy will often let you know when he's about to relieve himself. Wandering off, sniffing and circling are signs that your puppy is ready to relieve himself. You might catch him waiting by the door.

Patience and kindness goes a long way in dog training. Be sure to spend time training your new pal to urinate or deficate where you have chosen for him to go. The time and effort you put into training your new pal will be worth it when he knows the right time and place to relieve himself.

Watch free dog training video plus discover effective dog training potty techniques.

Helping Your Dog When It Has Had A Stroke

It may come as a shock to you to find out that your dog has suffered from a stroke. Unlike humans, when a dog has a stroke, he often won't become paralyzed or display any of the human signs of stroke. In fact, with the right care and attention, chances are he will bounce right back within a short period after suffering from a stroke, especially if he has a little help.

How To Tell Your Dog Has Had A Stroke?
Often, there are a few signs that will tell you that your dog is suffering from a stroke. These usually include loss of sight, falling over, and tilting and turning of the head. If you notice your dog displaying these symptoms, you should take him to the vet to rule out other serious health problems such as brain disease, which may be the underlying cause of the symptoms.

Often, pet owners are not aware that their dog has suffered from a stroke.  If your pet is advanced in years, seems off color, or acting strangely, he may have suffered a stroke. The best way to find out for sure is to take him to the vet for an examination. Once there, the vet will put your dog under anesthesia, and run some tests to find out what is causing your dog to act strangely.

My Dog Has Had A Stroke, What Should I Do?
If your dog has had a stroke, it is important to remember that dogs don’t suffer as badly from strokes as humans do, and they will recover faster than humans. Once your dog has had a stroke, there is not a lot that your vet can do for him. In most cases, there is no magical cure, or special pill, all your vet will do is confirm that it was a stroke, and rule out the dangerous diseases that may be causing your dog to suffer from the strokes.

However, there are some things that you, the owner of your dog, can do to help with his recovery. Because you share a close owner-pet bond, your dog will recover faster if you are around to care for him, and cheer him on as he starts getting better. Make sure that he has a warm cozy place to rest, and plenty of encouragement, and love from you, to remind him of why he wants to get better.

You may also need to encourage your pet to eat, and drink soon after he has suffered from a stroke, and help him onto his feet, and encourage him to take bathroom breaks outside. Exercise, especially strenuous exercise, should be avoided. Once your dog is feeling well enough, he will soon tell you when he is ready to start going on walks again. After a matter of weeks, he will be starting to get back to his old self.

Don’t forget that once your dog has recovered, he will still need plenty of love, and encouragement, and may not be as agile as he was before the stroke. Strokes can keep reoccurring in dogs, so keep a close eye on him.


To find out more about pet health visit Natures Healthy Pet

Taking care of special horses

Have you ever seen the fast horses galloping in the races? Well, these horses are called Standardbreds, and they are well known for their skill in harness racing, being the fastest trotting horse in the world. In many part of Europe (England not including) all harness races are conducted between trotters. Standardbreds have shorter legs than the American pedigree racehorses and longest consistences. Often their hindquarters are several inches taller than their withers, which provides them with the power and thrust necesary to trot or pace at high speeds. Standardbreds are any color, usually chestnut .

Standardbreds are the horse of choice for the Amish, because they often find these inexpensive, sound horses at local auctions or right off the track. The horses handle the change from the busy racetrack environment to the farm roads of the country. Standardbreds can be found ridden for pleasure or show in many disciplines: jumping, dressage, equitation, trail, team penning, endurance, gymkhana events, saddleseat, and even sidesaddle. There are even growing associations for racing Standardbreds under saddle -- trotting or pacing just as they do in harness. Standardbreds race as either a pacer or a trotter. Trotters, as the name implies, race at the traditional trot.

Standardbreds are known for their skill in harness racing, being the fastest trotting horse in the world. Usually these horses require good food and good protection during the winter and rain, breeders recommend using Rambo horse blankets or  Turnout horse Blankets to protect this unique animals. Standardbreds are any color, usually chestnut, black, or brown; they average 15 hands (60 in./160 cm) in height and weigh near 1,000 lb (450 kg). Standardbreds will trot in a few races in which they need to trot out very chop-chop while asseverating their instinctive pace. If the horses break gait and do not return immediately, they are disqualified from the race.

Standardbreds have a wide range of height, from 14.1 to 17 hands (57"-66"), and most a great deal is coloured or the blacker fluctuation of bay called "brown," although other colors such chromatic and blackamoor are not rare. Gray and roan are also found. Standardbreds are a relatively new breed, dating back just over 200 years, but it is a true American breed. Standardbreds are bred for racing and require training before general riding. If trained correctly and consistently, they will adapt well to other tasks after retiring from racing.

How To Buy Your First Ferret

If you wish to have a ferret, you will likely have more luck buying them from a breeder or a animal shelter instead of a pet shop. This is because it takes some time and effort to care for these animals specially since they want constant attention.

For those who chance to find a breeder using either the paper or the net, it is always best to ask for some pictures first before you make any decision to purchase your pet. If you do make up your mind you like it, then you will have to fill out some paperwork and then pay for it and it will be ready to be taken home on the same day.

Ferrets can be bought at any age. If you want to raise a new born ferret, make sure to ask the breeder about ferret care. Although these enchanting little pets can already see, their sight is still very limited. You will have to keep there cage clean at all times, this will help to prevent any illness or accidental injuries. As they get older, it is best to toilet train them.

Adults on the other hand are quite different but just the same, they have to be toilet trained and your house has to be ferret proofed to prevent any chewing damage to your home.

The cost of a ferret will depend on their size and age. On average, they cost approximately $75 to $125. Aside from that, you will also have to buy a a couple of other items like a cage, litter box, toys and you should visit your veterinary for any inoculations that are necessary.

Another thing you need to know before going to buy a black-footed ferret, is finding out if it is legal to have one where you live. You can do so by checking with the local wildlife and game department, so if you need to get a license, this needs be done to avoid any problems later on.

When purchasing a black-footed ferret, give close attention to the eyes, their coating and their behaviour. The more active the animal is the better. If you are worried that the ferret might reproduce later on, there is no need to worry because they are usually neutered.

Once your black-footed ferret has been bought, the job of taking care of the black-footed ferret is in your hands and although it sleeps for more than 18 hours a day, once it is awake, it is very active and you will need to let it out of its cage and let it run about and have its daily exercise.

To keep your pet healthy, you will want to find a veterinarian that is qualified to deal with such an animal. If the one near where you live is not able to do the job, ask about for someone that can.

Food is one of the most important things to consider, since they need to eat poultry or meat products that are high in protein and have low levels of fat. You should also avoid giving any food to your black-footed ferret that is rich in carbohydrates and sugar. You must never substitute their diet with food that is intended for other animals, this is done to prevent health troubles that may come about because of a incorrect diet.

Ferrets Out are cuddly pets. If you have seen one on TV or in the pictures and wish to have one, then simply search the cyberspace and you are assured to find plenty of ferret sellers there.

For further FREE information on All About Ferrets or How To Buy Ferrets Online Visit Free Ferret Help

Hyper-advanced Ionic Air Purifier - Plasmacluster Ions vs Bird Flu Virus

Japanese Sharp Corporation releases a press statement on 27 August 2008 that did not grab any headlines. But one day, it may be on Page One of every newspaper on earth! Incorporated in its ionic air purifier, the Plasmacluster Ion Technology (more on this in a later post) has just been scientifically proven to be 99.9% effective in eliminating the bird flu virus known as H5N1.

Every now and then, the press reminds us that bird flu is the prime suspect to cause mankind's next pandemic. Pandemic does not just sound terrifying. It is. That’s when a highly contagious and deadly virus goes global, in a very negative sense. 50 million people may die in a global pandemic. No way, you say. But its happened before, during the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic! That deadly killer flu was confirmed on 5 October 2005 by the World Health Organization (WHO) to be caused by H1N1, a bird flu virus.

Do I have your attention now? Is it time to PANIC?

Not now. "Only" 245 people infected by the H5N1 virus, as per WHO data as at 10 Sep 2008, have died since 1996 when it first surfaced in China. So what’s the fuss? A bird flu virus that attains human-to-human transmission capability is the ultimate horror of the scientific community. As of now, there has been only one probable case of human-to-human transmission recorded in Thailand in September 2004. But if the dreaded virus mutation takes place, you can expect pandemonium on a global scale.

With increasing momentum. many countries are conscientiously preparing for the worse (more on this in a later post). At our individual level, we should start doing some homework too.

Ok, so what’s all this got to do with Sharp’s ionic air purifier. Is it not just another ionic air purifier? It is ordinary in that it performs the usual functions of the run-of-the-mill air purifier by getting rid of dust, dirt, smoke, dander, pollen, cuisine and pet odours, pollutants, allergens etc. But if we can get protection from all these and more in one ionic air purifier, especially one that is a tested defense shield against a potentially deadly virus, why not? And that is precisely what Sharp is telling us; get the whole package with their Plasmacluster Ion Technology.

Obviously, for the value-conscious, the next logical question would be “yes, that makes a whole lot of sense but at what cost”? At no extra cost, Sharp claims! Sharp contends that over a 5-year period, it is cheaper than any other competing ionic air purifier. A case of over-delivering by Sharp? But, how is this possible in this nothing-is-for-free world?

Sharp says that its definitely possible. Using the Plasmacluster Ionic Air Purifier Model FP-N40CX as the basis, Sharp contends that it is great value for money as there is no filter replacement costs for the first 5 years. At US$399, the Sharp model compares favourably against a typical competitor's ionic air purifier that may cost US$160 upfront but over 5 years cost a total of US$560 due to annual filter replacement costs of US$100 each.

If you have relevant data, be it on Sharp or the competitors, I would greatly appreciate your input. Just email me if you have actual numbers.

My next step will be to learn as much as I can about the Sharp Plasmacluster Ion Technology. Now is the time to research, while bird flu is still not quite at pandemic proportions.

Join me in my quest. I have been there. It was like a horror movie that ran for months. Paranoia abounded in crowded places even as people commuted to work on buses and MRT trains. Taxis cruised empty as stories were told of the infected travelling in them to hospital. It was near pandemonium in many Asian cities as pandemic fears took hold. It was the SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) virus. Originating in Asia in 2003, it eventually infected 8,096 people around the world and resulted in 774 fatalities. We all know that being well prepared is half the battle won.

Watch this space as we track exciting developments in our pursuit of safe, pure and clean air with nothing more than an ionic air purifier.

To easily receive updates on new articles, subscribe to The Ionic Air Purifier Blog today.

Conquering Leash Aggression And Educating Your Dog to Stay

How to Train a Puppy

What makes good dogs turn aggressive the second you put a leash on them? Having a dog that pulls and lunges at dogs and people presents a danger to others and a roadblock to your training efforts.

Skipping walks is not an option and may exacerbate the problem. Can you curb leash aggression so your daily walks aren't nightmares?

If your dog seems like he is about to become aggressive, divert him with a command like sit or down. This will keep him occupied and should reroute his attention.

If you are about to pass another dog, don’t tense up or pull the least taut. Your pet will be able to tell and he will think that you are scared, so aggression is much more likely. Animals pick up on our signals – just remain calm and relaxed.

Try using a muzzle or a gentle leader when walking your dog. This should only be a temporary measure but if you are concerned your dog may lunge or bite, these can be very helpful.

Some dogs will persist at lunging despite your best efforts. If this is the case with your dog, consult with a professional trainer. You don't want to let the behavior go unchecked; your dog will become a danger to your neighborhood. as well as to himself.

Many dogs pull and lunge when on a leash. If your dog displays this very natural reaction to being on a leash, it is vital that you take action as soon as possible so it doesn't become either an irritating habit or a dangerous one.

The stay command is one of the most useful for your dog. While indicative of a well-trained dog, the stay command can also keep your dog safe in different settings. To help facilitate teaching this command, use treats and praise liberally. Dog obedience training can help you gain even better control over your dog.

First, tell your dog to sit or lie. When he does, put your hand, palm towards the dog, and say, "Stay." Use a firm voice.

When your dog stays, praise him immediately. Likely your dog will only be able to stay for a second or two at first. This is great; it's a terrific beginning, and he will be able to do it for longer periods as he practices.

In addition instruct him the release command so he learns when it is time to get up. "Ok" or "Come" are often used. Again, kudos and treats make training easier. Praise and treats help alot when it comes to puppy training.

Gradually work on the length of time that your dog sits and stays before you give the release command. Make him work for that treat!

Optimal training should last about five to ten minutes at a time. Any more than that will strain your dog's attention span and counteract your efforts.

Any longer and your dog will feel like he’s in a marathon – he’ll get tired, cranky, and won’t want to listen. At first, you may have to repeat, "Stay," often to remind your dog, especially if they’re excited about their treat.

As you continue training, your dog will be able to stay longer, even when you are not in the room. You will not always have to provide a treat, but do always praise your dog and his accomplishments.

Carry on learning about puppy training tips.