Brandy Arnold
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Articles by Brandy Arnold
3 steps to build belonging in the classroom
Click to share on X (Opens in new window) X Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) LinkedIn Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email Click to print (Opens in new window) Print Key points: Creating a welcoming environment in the classroom fosters shared ownership Creating classroom culture through collective dialogue How we designed a space where students connect, collaborate, and flourish For more on...
RECALL ALERT: Viva Raw Issues Recall of Dog and Cat Foods Due to Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination
Viva Raw LLC, Charlotte, NC is voluntarily recalling two lots of dog and cat foods due to contamination with Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes. The recall is for Lot 21495 (Viva Ground Beef for Dogs; Viva Beef & Turkey for Puppies) and Lot 21975 (Viva Ground Chicken for Dogs; Viva Chunked Chicken for Dogs; Viva Chicken for Cats; Viva Pure Chicken).
RECALL ALERT: Blue Ridge Beef Recalls Kitten Mix Due to Salmonella & Listeria Contamination
Blue Ridge Beef is recalling 1,080 lbs. of their 2 lb logs of Kitten Mix Lot # N26 0114 and 1,380 lbs of their 2 lb logs of Puppy Mix Lot # N25 1230 (Lot numbers are stamped in the clips on the end of the chubs/bags) due to contamination with Salmonella and Listeria. The products were distributed between January 3, 2025 to January 24, 2025.
10 New Year’s Resolutions for Cat Owners
A new year means new opportunities—not just for us, but for our furry companions too! If you’re a cat parent, why not include your feline friend in your 2025 resolutions? From playtime to health checkups, there are plenty of ways to make this year purr-fect for you and your kitty. Here are some resolutions every cat owner should consider to ensure a happier, healthier cat. Cats are masters at hiding discomfort, so even the healthiest-looking kitties benefit from an annual checkup.
Treeing Walker Coonhound
“This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.” Smart, brave, determined, and a hunter through and through – the Treeing Walker Coonhound is not called “The People’s Choice” for nothing! The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a breed of medium-sized, powerful dog that originated in the United States of America. Learn more about this highly intelligent and good-natured hunting dog breed here.
Why Does My Cat Have a Saggy, Loose Belly Flap?
Ever noticed that sagging, loose belly flap on your cat and wondered what on Earth it is? Is it a secret snack stash, a sign of too much weight (or weight loss), or something to be concerned about? Whether you call it a jelly belly, saggy swaggy, the wobbleblob, mudflaps, giblets, or a flabdomen — that’s your cat’s primordial pouch! The primordial pouch is that extra bit of loose skin and fat on a cat’s belly, located just in front of their hind legs. This flap may jiggle when they walk or run.
Don't Miss These Purr-fect Prime Day Deals for Cat Owners
If you’re looking to pamper your cat, stock up on essentials, or add some tech to your cat care routine, don’t miss these Prime Day deals for cat owners! Amazon Prime Day, which runs from will run from 3:01 a.m. EDT on July 16 through 3:00 a.m. EDT on July 18, 2024, is an annual shopping event where Prime members can access exclusive deals and discounts across a wide range of products.
7 Weird Things Cats Love (And The Reasons Behind Them!)
Ever noticed your cat doing something hilariously weird, and you just can’t figure out why? You’re not alone! Cats have a knack for keeping us guessing, and their quirky habits are a big part of their charm. In this article, we’ll explore seven weird things cats love that you wouldn’t expect, backed by some science and feline behavior insights. Why Cats Love It: Cats have an incredible sense of smell, much stronger than ours.
How to Keep Your Senior Cat Comfortable, Happy, and Healthy
Your cat’s golden years are a special time for both of you. However, just like us, feline companions require a bit of extra care as they age. Adapting your home to your senior cat’s changing needs can make a world of difference in their comfort and health. Keep reading for some practical tips and expert advice to keep your senior cat happy and healthy. Senior cats often struggle with mobility. To make their lives easier, consider slightly raising their food and water bowls.
RECALL ALERT: Viva Raw Dog & Cat Food Recalled Due to Listeria Monocytogenes
Viva Raw LLC is recalling one lot of Viva Turkey For Dogs, Viva Beef & Turkey For Puppies, Viva Turkey For Dogs (Ground), Viva Turkey For Dogs (Chunked), and Viva Turkey For Cats due to contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a potential health risk to people and pets. All recalled products were manufactured under Lot 21244. Via U.S. Food & Drug Administration Listeria monocytogenes can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in pets eating contaminated products.
Can Cats Get Heatstroke?
Summertime can be fun, but it doesn’t come without an added danger to our furriest friends—heatstroke. You may not realize that cats can suffer from heatstroke just like humans. Despite their reputation for loving the warmth, cats are particularly vulnerable to overheating due to their limited ability to sweat. That’s why understanding how to recognize, treat, and prevent heatstroke in your cat could be life-saving.
How To Help Community Cats Beat The Heat & Stay Cool This Summer
Summer can be a particularly challenging time for our furry friends who live outdoors. Community cats, also known as feral cats or strays, lack the luxury of air conditioning and other comforts that indoor cats enjoy and the sweltering summer heat can pose significant risks to their health and well-being.
Celebrating the Cat Mom in Your Life This Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is a celebration of love, care, and nurturing, qualities that aren’t solely reserved for those with human kids! Cat moms, or humans who devote themselves to their feline friends as if they were family, embody the essence of motherhood in a unique way. This Mother’s Day, take time to acknowledge and celebrate the special bond between cat moms and their furriest family. Here’s how to make this day memorable for the cat mom in your life.
The Catington Post
Mother’s Day is a celebration of love, care, and nurturing, qualities that aren’t solely reserved for those with human kids! Cat moms, or humans who devote themselves to their feline friends as if they were family, embody the essence of motherhood in a unique way. This Mother’s Day, take time to acknowledge and celebrate the special bond between cat moms and their furriest family. Here’s how to make this day memorable for the cat mom in your life.
The Catington Post
If you’re like me, a proud cat parent, you might not realize the size of the carbon “pawprint” our purring companions leave on Mother Earth. Sure, it’s easy to think that our little furballs, spending their days napping in sunbeams or chasing laser dots, couldn’t possibly have a big environmental impact. But, as surprising as it may sound, our beloved cats do play a significant role in environmental changes.
How Will Your Pets React to the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse?
Pet owners across 15 states will experience a few minutes of total darkness during the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse on Monday, April 8. So, how will your pets react to the exciting celestial event? Truthfully, you probably won’t see much reaction from household pets as a result of the solar eclipse.
Madonna Publicly Called Out a Disabled Fan for Sitting Down at Her Concert
Whoa, Madonna has fired up the internet, especially the disabled community! During a recent concert in Los Angeles as part of her “Celebration Tour”, Madonna vocally called out a fan who was sitting instead of standing at her show. It was after she called out the fan that she realized the person was in a wheelchair. Then she basically shrugged it off with a “sorry about that” after publicly drawing attention to the disabled fan. What are you doing sitting down over there?
Messi The Border Collie is Stealing The Show at The Oscars and We Are Here For It
The best part of the 2024 Oscars right now is 100% Messi the Border Collie! Messi had a supporting role in the movie ‘Anatomy of a Fall’, a French drama, and is the goodest boy ever at the Oscars. This 7-year-old dog actor has some stunning blue eyes and seems to be enjoying himself and all the attention.
If You Ever See Blue Glowing Water, Here's What it Means
I have lived on the coast in a few different states, but I have never seen the water glowing with a blue color. Apparently, the phenomenon is happening in Galveston, Texas at the moment and I wish I could go and see it with my own eyes. The glowing blue color is called Bioluminescence and it’s quite beautiful to look at and makes for some amazing photographs! But what is Bioluminescence? Bioluminescence is light produced by a chemical reaction within a living organism.
People are Saying Beyoncé's 'Texas Hold 'Em' Copied the 'Franklin' Theme Song and I Can't Unhear It
If you’ve been spending any amount of time on social media lately, then you’ve probably heard many people talking about Beyoncé’s ‘Texas Hold ‘Em’. People either love it or they hate it and they want to be sure that everyone knows. The other argument is that people think that Beyoncé might have taken some liberties with the theme song for ‘Franklin’… Yeah, that one… the kid’s show with the turtle. Honestly, all “NEW COUNTRY” sounds the same to me.
You Can Crochet a Jesus Doll For Easter
I can not believe that we are already coming up on Easter! In case you didn’t know, Easter is at the end of March this year! And if you are religious, we’ve found the perfect Amigurumi crochet pattern to occupy those crafty hands for a bit. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is truly represented in a unique way with this Amigurumi crochet pattern. Each color used can hold significant meaning to the maker as well. This doll, once crocheted, would be a perfect gift for your faithful friends and family.
Starbucks Dropped New Lavender Oatmilk Drinks So Spring Can Officially Begin
I love it when Starbucks releases new seasonal drinks! The new spring-colored logo they released was a hint at what was to come. I’ve had Lavender coffees from small local coffee shops and absolutely loved them, so I was excited to try out what Starbucks had to offer. Lavender is the perfect flavor to transition us from the winter season into spring. Its soft sweetness, light floral notes and beautiful color ignite feelings of rejuvenation and awakening associated with the change of seasons.
A Little Debbie Park Exists and I'm Packing My Bags!
Yes, you read that right! A Little Debbie park exists! At first, I was mad that I missed out on this all the years I lived in Tennessee, but the park opened last year. McKee Foods Corporation opened the Little Debbie-themed park in 2023 and it looks like so much fun! A photographer like me would have a blast with all of those photo ops! I mean, who doesn’t love Little Debbie snacks?
Tractor Supply is Selling the Cutest Farmhouse Egg Holder and I Need It!
I used to have a chicken farm and man… I sure do miss those critters! I saw the cutest fresh egg holder at Tractor Supply and I had to share it with you all! I’m so tempted to go back and buy one, they are selling like crazy and are currently a popular item on the website. While I don’t own chickens anymore, I still buy farm-fresh eggs that are not kept in the refrigerator. This countertop fresh egg holder is designed with an antique farmhouse look.
'New Kids On The Block' is Releasing a New Album and We've Heard It's Got The Right Stuff
I was in high school when the ‘New Kids On The Block’ became nearly every teenage girl’s obsession. I’m being honest when I say I was not one of those girls, but I remember the frenzy. They had everything ‘New Kids On The Block’, I remember one girl I knew even had a watch with them on it. It was a craze that was worldwide and those same fans grew up and continued to be fans.
Lindsay Lohan Confirms A 'Freaky Friday' Sequel Is Coming and We Are So Ready
Do you realize it has been over TWENTY YEARS since ‘Freaky Friday’ starring Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis was released? I have seen talks about the sequel since last year, however, nothing I read had confirmed that the two would be reuniting in the sequel… until now! This past Monday, Lindsay Lohan did indeed confirm that the duo would be returning in the new film and I’m super excited! It is, I don’t want to say too much.
A New Federal Rule Will Cap Most Credit Card Late Fees at $8. Here's What We Know.
This makes my broke self a bit more happy this morning. I dread using credit cards, but right now it’s almost impossible to get by without them. The average credit card late fee is about $32, with this new cap at $8 it could save people so much money. I’ve always questioned how having such high late fees could ever allow someone truly in debt to climb out of that sinking hole. Things happen, I’m not talking about just choosing not to pay your bills, but real-life emergencies happen.
Coffee mate Just Released a Dirty Soda Creamer That You Mix with Dr. Pepper
Ok, so I love soda… however, I had no idea what a dirty soda was until now. I mean, I’ve had a dirty chai latte, but a dirty soda… huh? Since I had never heard the term before, I decided to look it up on Wikipedia for a quick summary. Dirty soda is a drink consisting of soda “spiked” with cream and flavored syrups or fruit juices. The drink has been described as “alcohol-free mocktails with optional flavor, cream and fruit add-ins”.
Is the Ecto Cooler Icee Back? Here's What We Know.
The internet is in a frenzy because no one seems to know if the new Icee is the Ecto Cooler, but here is what we could track down for everyone. Is the ecto plasmic green slime looking drink coming out as an Icee for the new movie release? Or are they just making us think it is? ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’ is scheduled to release in theaters on March 22, 2024, literally around the corner! When ‘Ghostbusters’ releases something new, sometimes we get to see the return of the Ecto Cooler by Hi-C.
Eugene Levy Says They're Open to Bringing 'Schitt's Creek' Back and I am Here for it!
I must admit I was super late jumping onto the ‘Schitt’s Creek‘ train, and I kicked myself for waiting so dang long to watch it. ‘Schitt’s Creek’ happens to be one of my all-time favorite shows now! They produced a level of comedy that is hard to find these days and were in a league of their own with the show.
Dairy Queen is Bringing Back The Cherry Dipped Cone and I Can't Wait!
Dairy Queen is our go-to place for tasty frozen treats! The temps are already rising and we happen to have a DQ within walking distance! I have several favorite menu items, I especially love Blizzards, but there isn’t much that’s better than a dipped cone. Creamy soft serve ice cream dipped in a hard shell coating, YUM! Just this past February Dairy Queen introduced a new dipped cone for spring, the Confetti Cake Dipped Cone.
If You Ever See A Man Paint One of His Fingernails, Here's What It Means
I grew up in a different time, back then guys in the punk scene often painted one or more of their fingernails, usually black. These days there is a whole new reason that some men are painting one of their fingernails. The trend isn’t new, however, it is getting noticed because it has spread from Australia to the rest of the world and the meaning is something important. Years ago Elliot had traveled with his team from Hagar International to Cambodia where he met a young girl named Thea.
iPhone's Latest Update Brings A Safety Concern. Here's How to Turn It Off.
If you own an iPhone, you may have noticed a new app that was installed with the iOS 17.2 update called ‘Journal’. iPhone users have pointed out a safety issue in the settings and we need to talk about it immediately! I have to admit that I do not tend to keep up with checking settings on my phone and devices. I need to do a much better job for my safety and more importantly… my children’s safety.
Here's Everything You Need to Know About The 2024 Total Solar Eclipse
If you are looking for something to get excited about, I’ve found it! The Great North American Eclipse will be here soon and I can’t wait, this is a TOTAL solar eclipse!! There will be a trail from Texas to Maine that will have a view of the total solar eclipse. We will tell you everything you need to know to get the best view because we won’t have this chance again for a very long time.
Pet Owners in Need: Organizations Offer Help With Vet Bills and Pet Food
There’s no question that pets are a big responsibility. They need food, water, shelter, and occasional veterinary care. For pet owners who are struggling to make ends meet, this can be a daunting challenge. Thankfully, there are hundreds of organizations out there that offer pet food and help with vet bills. So if you’re finding it tough to take care of your furry friend, don’t give up – there’s someone out there who can lend a hand.
RECALL ALERT: Viva Duck for Dogs and Cats Recalled Due To Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes Contamination
According to a January 27th letter sent to customers, Viva has recalled one lot of Viva Duck for Dogs (Ground), Viva Duck for Dogs (Chunked), Viva Duck for Cats and Viva Pure Duck (for cats and dogs) due to potential Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes contamination.
The Catington Post
As a cat owner, you know that your furry friend can be quite finicky when it comes to being petted. But don’t let that discourage you – with a little patience and practice, you can learn how to tell when your cat is enjoying the petting session and when she’s had enough. Here are some tips to get you started.
Understanding Why Cats Scratch: An In-Depth Look
Cats, with their adorable purrs and furry cuddles, also come with a less appreciated habit – scratching. But before you despair at the sight of shredded furniture, it’s crucial to understand why cats scratch and how we can help them do so appropriately. Why Do Cats Scratch? Scratching is a vital and instinctive behavior for cats.
RECALL ALERT: Blue Ridge Beef Kitten Grind, Kitten Mix, and Puppy Mix Due to Salmonella and Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination
Blue Ridge Beef is expanding an earlier recall to include additional lot numbers. This recall includes all lot numbers and used by dates between N24 1114 to N24 1224 of their 2 lb log of Kitten Grind UPC 8 54298 00101 6; 2lb log of Kitten Mix UPC 8 54298 00143 6 and their 2lb log of Puppy Mix UPC 8 54298 00169 6 due to contamination of Salmonella and Listeria monocytogenes.
The Catington Post
New Year’s is a time for making resolutions and setting goals. If you’re a cat lover, why not resolve to make this year the best one yet for your feline friend? Here are some great New Year’s resolutions for cat lovers. Let’s make 2024 the year of the happy, healthy kitty! Get your cat a new toy to keep them entertained With no one around to entertain them, cats are really just performing for an empty house.
RECALL ALERT: Multiple Brands of Cat, Dog, and Catfish Food Recalled Due to Potential Salmonella Risk
TFP Nutrition is expanding their voluntary recall that was initiated to include all dry dog, dry cat, and catfish formulas manufactured in their Nacogdoches, Texas, facility. The recall of these production codes is being conducted due to the potential for Salmonella contamination. Cat food brands include: Country Acres, Economax, Exclusive Red Flannel, Exclusive Signature, Feline Medley, H-E-B Texas Pets, Multi-Cat, Meow For More, Paws & Claws, and Star Pro Feline.
RECALL ALERT: Victor, Members Mark, Wayne Feeds Brand Cat & Dog Foods Recalled Due to Salmonella Risk
Mid America Pet Food, Mount Pleasant, Texas, is expanding its October 30, 2023, voluntary recall to include additional pet food products, with Best By Dates before 10/31/24, made at its Mount Pleasant facility, due to the products’ potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals eating the products, and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the...
How TNR (Trap-Neuter-Release) Can Help Community Cats
Have you ever seen a cat lurking around your neighborhood and wondered if it was lost or abandoned? This is a common occurrence in many areas, as there are millions of homeless cats across the country. While it may be tempting to take these cats in and care for them, this isn’t always the best solution. In fact, Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) programs are often a much more effective way of helping community cats. Here’s a look at how TNR works and why it’s such an important part of feline welfare.
The Catington Post
Cats are mysterious and enigmatic creatures, often communicating their feelings and intentions through subtle body language. One such signal that piques the curiosity of many cat owners is the so-called “airplane ears” posture. This article will delve into understanding why cats make “airplane ears,” the possible reasons behind it, and what you can do to make your feline friend feel more at ease. What are “Airplane Ears”?
New Ordinance Requires Las Vegas Pet Owners to Microchip All Cats and Dogs
An ordinance passed yesterday says that starting Aug. 1, 2024, all dogs or cats over the age of four months residing in the city of Las Vegas must have a microchip. At the October 18 meeting, city council members voted to pass an ordinance requiring pet owners and breeders to microchip, and register, all cats and dogs over four months of age.
8 Things Your Local Shelter Needs you to Donate
Because shelters and rescue groups are usually non-profit organizations, they rely on the generosity of volunteers and donations from their animal-loving community. So, what do they need most? And how can you help? While adopting a pet is one of the best ways to support your local rescue, not everyone can bring a new furry family member into their home. So, in the spirit of giving, we’ve put together a list of the top 8 things your local shelter desperately needs you to donate.
RECALL ALERT: CURiO Recalls Capri Blue Pet Products Due to Risk of Exposure to Bacteria
CURiO has recalled about 59,000 units of Capri Blue pet sprays and shampoos due to a risk of exposure to bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, an environmental organism found widely in soil and water. This recall involves all Capri Blue Deodorizing Pet Bedding Spray, Capri Blue Waterless Foaming Shampoo, Capri Blue Deodorizing Fragrance Spritz and Capri Blue Detangling and Conditioning Spray. The spray bottles are blue and white. “capri BLUE” and the product name are printed on the label.
Why Does My House Smell Like Cat Pee? (Hint: It Might Not Be The Cat!)
When you have a cat, it’s inevitable that at some point you’re going to deal with the dreaded smell of cat pee. But what if the source of the smell isn’t your cat’s urine? Before you blame the cat, make sure the source of the odor isn’t one of these several things that smell like cat pee. Spoiling Food Can Smell Like Cat Pee When food starts to rot, the bacteria that causes the decomposition process breaks down the amino acids in the food, releasing ammonia gas.
Black Cats: A Mix of Mystery, Magic, and Memes
Black cats. They’re the feline equivalents of little black dresses – sleek, elegant, timeless, and they go with everything. Throughout history, these ebony-coated felines have been the subject of folklore, superstitions, and a whole lot of love. So why do we love black cats? 1. The Allure of Mystery Let’s start with the obvious: black cats are mysterious. And who doesn’t love a good mystery? Their dark coats and penetrating gaze give off an air of enigma that can be intoxicating.
Fall Safety for Cats: Protecting Your Feline Friends
Fall, with its vibrant colors and crisp air, is a beautiful season that offers a lot of fun activities. However, it also presents a unique set of challenges for our feline friends. As a cat owner, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks your pet might face during this time of year and take appropriate measures to ensure their safety.
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