tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-170813142024-03-12T19:23:57.880-07:00The Horse DoctorHere you can find my comments about Veterinary Medicine, Science, Surfing ,Travel, Horses and what ever interests me that day. I'm a board certified
specialist in Internal Medicine and this is my experiment with the Blogosphere. I will post as much as I'm able and provide links from around the interwebs that I feel are worthwhile. I hope you enjoy it.
Alan Weldon DVM Dipl.ACVIM
Jacksonville Equine AssociatesDr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.comBlogger233125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-73175115365339095322020-03-08T20:26:00.001-07:002020-03-08T21:12:56.177-07:00Coronavirus Ponderings <div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"> As I’m sure you are aware there has been an absolute sense of panic over this new strain of Coronavirus and as with all infections, caution is always warranted. The situation scientifically is still rather fluid as we gain more information and I think it will be for the rest of the year. Several questions remain unanswered , such as , Where did it originate ?. Was it a typical species jump from close human / avian / bat/ “ pangolin” contact ( most likely... contact that is ,not the pangolin) or was it accidentally released from the lab in Wuhan .Note- labs in China have been cited for lower level employees selling lab animals to local “ wet markets” in the past to </span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-family: "times new roman";">make some significant $$$ on the side. The lab in Wuhan is a BL4 lab tasked with working on novel viruses like SARS and MERS ( both corona viruses ) . Why are kids less than 13-15 not showing up on the fatality reports? Is it because they are constantly exposed to Coronavirus on a regular basis ( the typical daycare / elementary school snotty nose) or is it the opposite and their more naive immune system is preventing the Acute Respiratory Syndrome as the immune system response can cause significant damage. Why did the CDC botch the roll out of diagnostic tests? In the US the FDA wants to make sure testing has appropriate sensitivity and specificity ( </span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-style: italic;">In medical diagnosis, test sensitivity is the ability of a test to correctly identify those with the disease (true positive rate), whereas test specificity is the ability of the test to correctly identify those without the disease (true negative rate). </span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Over the years I’ve seen tons of tests come and go and clinicians frequently rely on a “ paper” diagnosis as 100% true only to find out later that the test just sucked. I’ve heard reports that the CDC funding was cut and the head of infectious disease was fired.... I looked it up on www.cdc.org and the funding remains unchanged but a cut has been proposed ( probably not a great idea either way ) . China is testing thousand of cases and perhaps the test is good but as with many things manufactured in China... I’m skeptical . So take the data for what it is.....information filtered through a government that doesn’t want you to know what’s happening and one that is now trying to deflect blame on the United States saying it came from here so their people are placated. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-family: "arial";"> </span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">This leaves us with what to do and how bad can it be. Most likely it will be a very severe seasonal flu that becomes endemic( always around) in society with severity decreasing over time as natural immunity increases. Note-20,000 people have died in the US alone this year from flu . If fatality rate is 3x that of flu then we are potentially looking at 60,000 people. But keep in mind , we don’t quarantine for flu, we just accept it. It could also cause an incredible loss of life as it moves around the globe and really shake our society as the global supply chain gets disrupted. Many are unaware of just how much of the worlds manufacturing has shifted to Asia and that now 90% of the raw materials for pharmaceuticals comes from Asia. Note- one positive from the so called trade war with China might be that many companies have been forced to find alternative manufacturing . Either way it’s something our Government needs to address and perhaps this will at least wake some of them up. I read a great piece on how the influenza epidemic of 1918-19 was handled and what measures were most useful. It remains one of the largest data sets for an epidemic that we have . It’s over at marginal revolution if you want to read the entire article here’s the link.<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8l8qDyZ43NM/XmWlXv4d6II/AAAAAAAAC88/P8jryH6TZzARv9Z5lHpbsPaIdWZGtHMZQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/CACE5EC1-48F5-4EDA-8830-B0E23D47077B.jpeg"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"> </span></a></span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; color: black;">The main points are that 40 million people died worldwide and 550,000 in the US. This was at a time when we had marginal intensive care, no antivirals and no antibiotics . Just think about that for a moment . All that they had was basic public health concept of infectious disease and a rudimentary understanding of the germ theory . With that said they were somewhat effective in slowing down the spread of the epidemic. What they found out was that those cities that were proactive in three areas were the most successful </span><span style="color: black; font-size: 15px;">.</span><span style="color: black; font-size: 15px; font-style: italic;">[1] Isolation of ill persons and quarantine of those suspected of having contact with ill persons refers only to mandatory orders as opposed to voluntary quarantines being discussed in our present era. [2] School closure was considered activated when the city officials closed public schools (grade school through high school); in most, but not all cases, private and parochial schools followed suit. [3] Public gathering bans typically meant the closure of saloons, public entertainment venues, sporting events, and indoor gatherings were banned or moved outdoors; outdoor gatherings were not always canceled during this period (eg, Liberty bond parades); there were no recorded bans on shopping in grocery and drug stores.</span><span style="color: black; font-size: 15px;">This makes us question , when or if these measures need to be put in place ? What if it’s like really severe season flu? ( “ only flu” shouldn't minimize the fact that ~35,000 people will die on average from flu this year) What will the social, political and economic costs of these measures be? I don’t know. What are the current costs of the current media induced panic ? ( look at airline and cruise line losses this month) and I suspect it will only get worse as this is an election year and this will be used as a campaign message from now until November. Imagine all sports events being cancelled and the effects on beer sales alone. We are now talking the great apocalypse for sure. Hhhhmmmm , What is the shelf life of beer? Need to make sure I have a amply supply and all 4 seasons of Doomsday preppers on DVD. But... back to the science, </span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; color: black;">The authors define “public health response time” as the number of days from the day the excess death rate was double baseline to the day that at least one of their three key public health measures was implemented. The longer the public health response time the greater the total excess deaths ( you gotta love the term “ excess deaths”) . When we look at how China, Italy and Viet Nam have used quarantines of entire cities and how the US instituted flight restrictions and local quarantines it seems draconian but it is exactly what was done in 1918. The authors point out how important early adoption of these measures can be so the question becomes , if we are eventually going to close schools and stop large public gatherings ...... should we do it now , next month?“</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 13px;">Although these urban communities had neither effective vaccines nor antivirals, cities that were able to organize and execute a suite of classic public health interventions before the pandemic swept fully through the city appeared to have an associated mitigated epidemic experience. Our study suggests that nonpharmaceutical interventions can play a critical role in mitigating the consequences of future severe influenza pandemics (category 4 and 5) and should be considered for inclusion in contemporary planning efforts as companion measures to developing effective vaccines and medications for prophylaxis and treatment. The history of US epidemics also cautions that the public’s acceptance of these health measures is enhanced when guided by ethical and humane principles.”</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"> And there’s this from Liz Specht PhD who has ran some numbers on hospital beds in the US.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #3d3d3d; font-family: "verdana"; font-size: 13.1px; font-style: italic;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 13.1px;">The US has about 2.8 hospital beds per 1000 people. With a population of 330M, this is ~1M beds. At any given time, 65% of those beds are already occupied. </span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-family: Verdana-BoldItalic; font-size: 13.1px; font-weight: bold;">That leaves about 330k beds available nationwide</span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-size: 13.1px;"> (perhaps a bit fewer this time of year with regular flu season, etc).</span></span></div>
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<li style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 13.1px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana-bolditalic"; font-size: 13.10px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana-bolditalic"; font-size: 13.10px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Let’s trust Italy’s numbers and assume that about 10% of cases are serious enough to require hospitalization.</span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; background-color: white; font-size: 13.1px; font-style: italic;"> (Keep in mind that for many patients, hospitalization lasts for *weeks* — in other words, turnover will be *very* slow as beds fill with COVID19 patients).</span></li>
<li style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 13.1px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "verdana-bolditalic"; font-size: 13.10px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana-bolditalic"; font-size: 13.10px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">By this estimate, by about May 8th, all open hospital beds in the US will be filled</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana-bolditalic"; font-size: 13.10px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">. </span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; background-color: white; font-size: 13.1px; font-style: italic;">(This says nothing, of course, about whether these beds are suitable for isolation of patients with a highly infectious virus.) </span></li>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"> The 2018-19 Influenza season had 35 million cases with 16 million doctor visits but only 490,000 hospitalizations , that’s only 1.3% . With this being the first time our bodies have seen this virus we can expect it to be a REALLY bad case of flu. Maybe 3 times as bad. This could mean a significant strain on our medical system. A recent presentation by the <a href="https://www.who.int/dg/speeches/detail/who-director-general-s-opening-remarks-at-the-media-briefing-on-covid-19---3-march-2020"><span style="color: #551a8b; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16px;">WHO director general </span></a> stated the following “ </span><span style="color: #3c4245; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 16px;">This virus is not SARS, it’s not MERS, and it’s not influenza. It is a unique virus with unique characteristics. However, there are some important differences between COVID-19 and influenza. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">First, COVID-19 does not transmit as efficiently as influenza, from the data we have so far. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">( note- there is a possibility of prolonged airborne infection) </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">With influenza, people who are infected but not yet sick are major drivers of transmission, which does not appear to be the case for COVID-19. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Evidence from China is that only 1% of reported cases do not have symptoms, and most of those cases develop symptoms within 2 days.”</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"> This is different from previous reports that said patients could spread the virus for 10-12 days before being truly sick enough to stay home. Additionally he said </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">“ The second major difference is that COVID-19 causes more severe disease than seasonal influenza. While many people globally have built up immunity to seasonal flu strains, COVID-19 is a new virus to which no one has immunity. That means more people are susceptible to infection, and some will suffer severe disease.Globally, about 3.4% of reported COVID-19 cases have died. By comparison, seasonal flu generally kills far fewer than 1% of those infected.” </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"> The good news is that most Coronavirus doesn’t survive long on contaminated surfaces and outbreaks frequently die out during the summer and summer is coming. If your non-symptomatic you’re likely not transmitting disease ( unlike flu) We can also hope that our hospitals don’t become overwhelmed . From my small Corner of the world here on the east coast of Florida where we has seen few cases , I can say this . 1- We should consider closing schools several weeks early. 2- we should continue to test and quarantine 3- Postpone international travel ( my trip to Vietnam has been cancelled, going out west instead. 4- practice smart personal protection , wash hand frequently , avoid crowds , if you are at risk ( smoker, asthma, heart disease, on immunosuppressants or use steroid inhalers , cancer patient , over 70 years of age, ) consider a semi- self quarantine until this burns out. 5- don’t go out as much for the next few months 6- read “some “news to stay up to date but avoid watching TV news ..... that’s always a good idea anyway.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Be smart, Stay healthy. </span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EKmfaKkxiBc/XmXBpcNXjhI/AAAAAAAAC9o/9UguSW9GF7MiQi7MVq87lR-samBeWkD4QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/26C397A2-878B-46A1-A887-16706C579565.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VZJ6WtdEIwA/XmXBjE4qGiI/AAAAAAAAC9c/u1eBki-DSXAjH2vv5uDeCEnC-NwHV7hUACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/292B38D2-D996-4860-ACB4-3CFA21FB616B.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="433" data-original-width="650" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VZJ6WtdEIwA/XmXBjE4qGiI/AAAAAAAAC9c/u1eBki-DSXAjH2vv5uDeCEnC-NwHV7hUACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/292B38D2-D996-4860-ACB4-3CFA21FB616B.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-82402955494196346922017-12-02T08:10:00.000-08:002017-12-15T15:06:35.189-08:00Hundreds of PTEROSUR eggs found in ChinaThis is a fascinating discovery in China where about 250-300 Pterosaur eggs were recently found.<br />
<a href="https://news.nationalgeographic.com/2017/11/largest-pterosaurs-eggs-discovered-embryos-fossils-paleontology-science/">.nationalgeographic.com</a><br />
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Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-42924532939757223862017-01-14T13:38:00.000-08:002017-03-31T09:54:39.640-07:00What exactly is happening to the worlds Cheetahs <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3EZCzykuuo/WHqTd0YfSnI/AAAAAAAACMw/ppWXjAOwPwUQITCnWv9Mq2Nq9hXM6J1lQCEw/s1600/cheetah%2Beye%2Binjury.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3EZCzykuuo/WHqTd0YfSnI/AAAAAAAACMw/ppWXjAOwPwUQITCnWv9Mq2Nq9hXM6J1lQCEw/s1600/cheetah%2Beye%2Binjury.jpg" /></a></div>
<img src="file:///C:/Users/Alan/OneDrive.old/Documents/cheetah%20eye%20injury.jpg" /> The world's cheetah population has dramatically fallen over the last several decades to where now there are estimated to only be approximately 7100 in the wild. The Cheetah population in Asia is all but gone, essentially leaving only those left in Africa. Here's a <a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-38415906">link</a> to a recent report. The majority of these live in the grasslands of Namibia and South Africa. What seems to be happening is a loss of the overall habitat that the animals have hunted in as there is more development in these countries for farmland. This has caused the cheetah population to move into areas where there are more trees and brush as opposed to wide open plains. One thing that was noted by veterinarians visiting the area was that many of these cheetah are very thin and malnourished and when examined closer have ocular injuries in one or both eyes. This makes stereoscopic vision almost impossible and something that these fast hunters require in chasing down their prey. Several years ago a veterinarian in the area examined some of these and found that there are penetrating wounds into the cornea of the eye caused by small thorns. It is<br />
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postulated that as these cats chase prey through a thorny brush undergrowth that they are taking thorn injuries into the eye and that is leading to their inability to hunt effectively and essentially starvation. I found this to be a really amazing story of investigative medicine and Veterinarians trying to isolate what the cause of this problem is. It must also be understood that when these countries are dealing with their own level of starvation it is very difficult for those on the outside to tell them that their increased farming is what's leading to this problem. The use of fencing and the development of large grasslands for grazing of cattle and modern agriculture has reduced the available habitat for the cheetah and is forcing them into the perimeter of the country where there normal hunting tactics are leading to devastating eye injuries. Governmental authorities in many of these areas are aware of the problem and are working to find solutions but is a difficult balancing act to say the least. Many of the areas occupied by the cheetah actually fall outside of protected lands .One small company called Bushblocks makes fire logs with the wood from these thorn bushes which is harvested in these areas and sending the money back so that even more of the thorny underbrush can be removed. There is currently a move to change the status of the cheetah to endangered which may generate more awareness and a greater level of protection for the species. This is something we will all have to watch over time.<br />
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Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-15247363759714584262016-12-22T14:42:00.000-08:002016-12-22T16:02:07.949-08:00Beth's infamous Christmas Letter 2016<div class="MsoNormal">
Another blessed year has flown by. Against most odds all parents are still
muddling along. Sarah, Murphy, and Polly live at home mostly, Mac is a junior
at University of Florida and Dani is living and working at the beach. We are
down to 3 cats, 4 dogs, 2 canaries, 5 chickens, a crayfish, a salamander, and a
squirrel (temporary, just waiting for him to get old enough to release). We
have had lots of fun and adventures on trips to Cumberland, a family cruise to
the Caribbean, a hiking trip to Utah and Colorado, a big trip to Nicaragua
including climbing several volcanoes(except not one of the ones that we were
planning to because it blew 2 weeks before we got there and it was closed)
volcano surfing (the only place in the world you can do it), getting our
advanced diving certification at Little Corn Island, veterinary conferences to
Denver and Gainesville, a vet school 30th reunion at Palm Island, Florida and
several jaunts to St. Augustine to spend the night at a Bed and Breakfast and
shop or take a carriage ride to see all of the Christmas lights. We are about
to build a 2-3 car garage with an apartment over it (everyone seems to think it
is a Murphy apartment, I hope not) so Alan can have somewhere to keep his ’61
Corvette and work out equipment. We have permits and permission from Riverside
Avondale Preservation (or The Peoples Republic of Avondale as Alan calls them)
but have not broken ground yet.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xaSMLBo0pgM/WFxSUGmYToI/AAAAAAAACHI/0VMZHPMdMPE325IfxGN1Kt5PxL2XWhp8gCLcB/s1600/IMG_3473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xaSMLBo0pgM/WFxSUGmYToI/AAAAAAAACHI/0VMZHPMdMPE325IfxGN1Kt5PxL2XWhp8gCLcB/s200/IMG_3473.JPG" width="150" /></a>Alan is currently killing himself doing P90X with Murphy and
much less reliably, Polly. He had to give up tennis for 3 months due to a bad
slip on our whale shark expedition and an old fracture at L5 that was
anteriorly displaced but he is back beating himself up on the tennis courts
again now. He has not learned enough in his 58 years not to get back on the
Revellers board when they had a resignation (luckily its only for 2 more years
or I would have to have imparted some of my wisdom on him!) He is still on the
session at church, interviewing for UF vet school applicants, attending Gator
and Jaguar home games, and just lost an associate vet who decided to leave
before finishing her on call schedule, so he has to pick up Christmas day call
now ( yes, I am disgruntled about this)! Alan’s story this year relates a
snippet of our Nicaraguan trip and as it covers a sensitive matter I will let
him tell it in his own words. I will say that climbing this volcano was the
most difficult physical task that I have ever completed (keep in mind that I
went through childbirth 4 times) and made me realize that somethings are beyond
my physical capacities now. So in Alan’s words
"Our hike up Conception started at 5:30 am when we were picked up
in the dark by two men in a truck. One was a portly driver who got winded just walking
to the back of the truck (obviously not the guide)…the other (our guide) was a
lean fit 20-something ex-Sandinista who does this trip once a week (we were in
trouble). I should have turned back then. In the dark, with the mountain
covered in fog, it doesn’t seem so daunting…but then you got started. It was
STRAIGHT UP, like Tarzan climbing the escarpment. There was NO trail, none. We
climbed over stumps and boulders and had to pull ourselves along with vines.
There were a few showers to make sure we stayed wet so when the Nicaraguan sun
came out we could get the full steamy eco-tourist experience. I have no idea
how hot it was as my watch can’t measure in degrees Kelvin. I felt like Cool
Hand Luke in the hotbox. It took us over
5 hours to reach the summit with the last 200 yards being hot volcanic scree
where you took 2 steps forward on your hands and knees and slid back 1, all the
while sucking in sulfurous gas (Beth tried to blame me for that one, imagine
that). After hours of rain forest conditions it was cold and windy on the top
(30 mph gusts). The trip down was much harder taking us 6 ½ hours. I took 2
camel backs of water in my pack and ran out half way down. I can’t describe how
much that sucked. We had to lower ourselves down over boulders and slipped and
fell repeatedly on top of losing our guide a few times. After reaching the
bottom we made it back to the farm we were staying and I realized as I pulled
off my clothes to get in the shower that I should never have worn cotton…Yuge
mistake. The 11 ½ hours of hiking in wet cotton apparently rubbed “things” a
bit raw….as a matter of fact, a great deal more than a bit. I thought it might
require some type of skin graft to ever appear normal again. To add insult to
injury we were supposed to ride horses the next day through Gen. Samosa’s Plantation.
I could hear the tour person laughing over the phone when Beth explained my
“predicament “to her. We opted for a massage instead. This also turned out to
be a...Yuge mistake. We caught a ride on a Tuk-Tuk to a bad part of town to see
Milton Duarte…the famous masseuse. The dirt road with chickens running
everywhere combined with the stares of the local street gangs added to the
ambiance. I really think he did interrogation for Daniel Ortega during the
revolution. I kid you not, bare concrete walls and a tin roof, one stained
towel of questionable cleanliness and a table covered with bottles and jars.
Apparently he is known for his "deep tissue" massage, and that
doesn't even come close to an accurate description. After the pain my legs were
already in and the 11 ½ hour hike in wet shorts induced rash in “the area” that
won't be named ... This wasn't a good idea. To top it off he used some type of
oil that should never come in contact with abraded skin (see previous note).
I'm sure the screams ringing from the ghetto brought a smile to the old
Sandinista's heart. Of course I couldn't see his reaction since my eyes were
streaming tears uncontrollably at this point. To add to the experience, he was
really working his @$$ off in this Club Gitmo of a room so that when he bent
over, a torrent of his sweat dropped onto my face right in my eye socket ...
Mixing with the tears and acrid oils to just heighten the experience like a
Nicaraguan version of water boarding. " Despite this we had a great trip
and pretty good stories.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wkHmX-3Jae4/WFxQ184EgUI/AAAAAAAACGk/JIZ4V1O-PVsSdQFmzLvuhj5JCvv2xg6NgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wkHmX-3Jae4/WFxQ184EgUI/AAAAAAAACGk/JIZ4V1O-PVsSdQFmzLvuhj5JCvv2xg6NgCLcB/s200/IMG_3750.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pB54XjqLI-Y/WFxQLDEFWzI/AAAAAAAACGM/2MZaKYGwu-suPF6YTk54g53AT8fXPJcIgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pB54XjqLI-Y/WFxQLDEFWzI/AAAAAAAACGM/2MZaKYGwu-suPF6YTk54g53AT8fXPJcIgCLcB/s320/IMG_3818.JPG" width="240" /></a>I still work 3 days a week in a
great practice with superb co-workers. I am so blessed to love (most days) what
I get paid to do. I am working hard to avoid my parent’s diabetes and shapes by
walking 3 miles daily, yoga 1-2 times weekly, High Intensity Interval Training
twice weekly, and a walk, jog, sprint workout once weekly. I am fairly
successful at achieving these goals. I muddle in my yard and garden and mostly
enjoy the chickens' escapades, though the great raccoon chicken massacre was traumatic
for all involved especially the 2 unfortunate hens that got grabbed. I noticed
a stray cat hanging around and I decided that I needed to catch it, neuter it,
and give it a Rabies vaccine since there were so many raccoons around. As a
result I set out a trap and caught 8 raccoons, 1 opossum, and 2 of my cats
twice. The raccoons and opossum were relocated as per Fish and Wildlife’s
recommendations. The stray I thought was a male turned out to be a female and I
know this because Murphy trapped her kitten. We still have not caught momma but
at least there are less raccoons around to expose her to Rabies (and kitten
gets her last shots and spayed in 10 days)! Some of my highlights of the year
were the family cruise, the petroglyphs in Utah and Nicaragua, the fossils in
Utah, hiking and surfing volcanos in Nicaragua, riding through the hoodoos in
Bryce Canyon in Utah, hiking Peekaboo trail in Utah, swimming with the whale
sharks in Mexico, fossil hunting on Raccoon key, hiking on Cumberland, and
finally getting 3 pink lemons from my pink lemon tree (I’ve had it about 5
years now).<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sarah has 1 year left to finish
her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. She nannies, works at Merrill and
Jacksonville Equine, pet sits, and does her full time student course load which
includes 5 days a month in Tampa at Nova Southeastern for her exams and clinic
stuff. She is still dating Jeff and he is a real trooper. He is patient with
her hectic schedule and crazy family and here is a prime example. We decided to
do a cruise for our family vacation and everyone (except Mac who suffers from
seasickness) thought it would be a great adventure to go swimming with the
whale sharks in Mexico as a full day excursion from Cozumel. We invited Jeff
(who is not a big fan of the ocean). Mac was hopeful that Jeff would decide not
to go swimming with the whale sharks and then he and Jeff could hang around in
Cozumel at Carlos and Charley’s or Senior Frogs or find something more fun than
3-4 hours of potentially rough seas on a full day side trip. Sarah assured us
that Jeff wanted to swim with the whale sharks and so Mac had no choice but to
double up on the Meclizine like the rest of us and take the 45 minute ferry
ride, hour bus ride, and 90 minute boat ride through rough seas (the trip had been
cancelled for the previous week due to rough seas and had just calmed down
enough that the tour guides were willing to risk it) to the whale shark viewing
site 30 miles off the coast. The boat bobs in rough seas over the whale sharks,
and a guide takes groups of 2 into the water over. You swim as long as you can
watching the whale sharks while the boat goes back to collect the last 2 people
and drop off the next batch before returning to collect you. Oh, did I mention
that Jeff does not like the ocean, and what I didn’t know until after we got
back from the excursion was that Jeff had never snorkeled before! Alan and I
went first, then Polly and Murphy, then Jeff and Sarah. Sarah dropped over the
side and frantically swam after the guide. Jeff was bobbing in 3 foot seas
trying not to swallow a gallon of water through his snorkel and watching as
Sarah instituted the Weldon emergency preparedness plan, every person for
themselves! Alan, Polly, and I went in 4 times, Mac and Sarah 3 times, and
Murphy and Jeff once each. As we headed back, the guide offered us sandwiches
and everyone but Sarah vigorously declined, Mac promptly threw up despite the
double Meclizine. We made the almost 3 hour return trip to the cruise ship. I
hope Jeff saw the whale sharks, he said he had fun, I fussed at Sarah and asked
why she would put him through that, I’m not sure you could plan a more
unpleasant experience for someone not overly fond of the ocean who had never
snorkeled before, but she said he wanted to do it. I told her he was a keeper
as well as a sport to cheerfully put up with conditions like that just to make
her happy!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Dani is still living at the beach
with Mishka and Eleni and loves it so much that we rarely see her unless she
has a Mishka or Huck (her roommate Elenis new kitten) problem. She came home
when Huck was not feeling well, when Mishka needed some blood work, when she
was headed out of town to drop Mishka for a visit, and when they turned the
power off at the beaches to enforce mandatory evacuation from the beach for
hurricane Matthew! No matter the reason I am always happy to see her. Dani and
Polly took Mishka and River to the pool
for a dip. While River was excitedly leaping in and out of the pool Mishka
watched from the side barking her warning to River, at least until she fell in,
sunk like a stone, and had to be fished out! Mishka has her own life jacket now
to hopefully avoid future mishaps! Dani and a bunch of friends went camping,
canoeing, and kayaking down the Sewanee near Gainesville for a fun excursion
and she visited Nik in Atlanta on her way to the mountains for a vacation this
summer. Even Dani has been to a Jaguar game this season (in the club section no
less) and yet still no home wins. Dani is looking for a new job that
encompasses both accounting and marketing and that might offer her an
opportunity to get a Masters in business. Hopefully she won't have tomove to
Atlanta to find what she is looking for.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Xtq1TIWuCQ/WFxQMzlB8bI/AAAAAAAACGQ/0JZpbjrLkJMCi6ppGjpom417mJ1mgm9CACLcB/s1600/dani.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5Xtq1TIWuCQ/WFxQMzlB8bI/AAAAAAAACGQ/0JZpbjrLkJMCi6ppGjpom417mJ1mgm9CACLcB/s200/dani.jpg" width="200" /></a>Murphy is still working his way
through college. He is not particularly interested in anything, which makes it
harder. He loves River and Dribbles (dog and cat). He and his friends make a
pretty mean trivia team. He is very kind to Meme and Pop and plays Sequence
with Pop most weeks as well as giving him rides to and from appointments when
he can. He and 4 friends took a road trip to Charleston to eat, drink, be
merry, visit museums, and take a ghost tour. They stayed at one of the guys
roommates parents rental property, a 5 bedroom beach house. Apparently they did
such a great job cleaning up that the owners said they were welcome to come
back. Maybe I should invite Ben, Mac, Peter, and Chris to come visit here for a
weekend because Murph's not keeping this house very clean! He helped Robert put
up Meme and Pops hurricane shutters and we all made it through Matthew with
only a few days of no power. Murph was home alone 3 weeks later when a tree
from the park fell on our porch and crushed the porch roof and part of the deck
and fence. 7 weeks later the city has not removed the tree, too bad it didn’t
happen during the hurricane, that debris was removed in less than a week!
Murphy seems to have "a bad motivator" which is one reason why he is
still working on graduating (that plus the multiple times he has changed his
major and schools). I'm going to go out on a limb and predict he will graduate
by next December. Keep your fingers crossed!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Jacksonville Equine and pet sits too. She is applying to vet school at Florida
this year (they didn’t receive her transcript last year). She is working on a
couple of research projects that she hopes to publish as well. Momo is still
her pride and joy but she has added Gandolph the Cray and Alexander salamander
and Quirrel the squirrel to her menagerie. Polly described the "worst day
of her life" earlier this year one night at dinner time. It started with a
doctor's appointment which included a vaccine (Polly is needle phobic). She
left the doctor's and headed to work but on the way got a flat tire. She called
work to let them know she was running late and got out to change the tire. She
was annoyed when a "creepy" guy stopped, watched her change the tire,
and then after she finished, offered to help. She hurried to work, walked in,
and Becky pointed out to her that her pants were split wide open in the back,
(hence the creepy guy watching instead of helping). Her first client was a
large woman with a small sick dog. She had no shoes on (not sure why) and had
trouble getting up from her chair in the waiting room so Polly helped her. As she
headed towards the exam room, the woman tripped on her dog, fell on top of
Polly, knocking her to the floor, and burst into tears sobbing on Polly who was
trapped underneath her, and telling her to please just put her and her dog out
of their misery while Polly lay pinned to the floor unable to move! Polly has
been attending the Jaguar games with us and it hasn't been a good year for
them. Last week she entertained herself at the game by watching a drunk
opposing team couple. They were standing the whole time so the elderly couple
behind them could not see. This in-sensed<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NRmITjqnex0/WFxTeBGKIwI/AAAAAAAACHY/8Bes9J-OgJw2ECPuW4N-zxGfhqTVSBHJQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NRmITjqnex0/WFxTeBGKIwI/AAAAAAAACHY/8Bes9J-OgJw2ECPuW4N-zxGfhqTVSBHJQCLcB/s320/IMG_3683.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aSs2ND4fJ18/WFxTjbiFm8I/AAAAAAAACHg/q99HFro2c58CJFHB3bLb01i1xB2AhmnNACLcB/s1600/IMG_3811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aSs2ND4fJ18/WFxTjbiFm8I/AAAAAAAACHg/q99HFro2c58CJFHB3bLb01i1xB2AhmnNACLcB/s320/IMG_3811.JPG" width="320" /></a> her for some reason, so after a
quarter of the elderly couple peeking around them, Polly went to the security
guy and reported them. He asked them nicely to sit some of the time so people behind
them could see. The female tried to get the male to be considerate but he
became belligerent. She turned and apologized to the elderly couple and they
just tried to watch the game but now the wobbly drunk man was turned around
talking to them and touching them and blocking their view even more. So
security came to escort them out and as they carried the drunken guy out
because he couldn't walk, the woman turned around trying to spot who ratted
them out, when her eyes met Pollys 3 rows up, Polly gave her a head nod and the
women's eyes widened, shocked that such an innocent looking person could be the
cause of her demise! Polly said it was her best experience at the stadium this
year because justice was served!<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Q1WpvORoIQ/WFxQPD4eZnI/AAAAAAAACGU/4yBCmjJVj7ggDZBxOrxC1TdzaHq87kC2QCLcB/s1600/davidpumpkins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Q1WpvORoIQ/WFxQPD4eZnI/AAAAAAAACGU/4yBCmjJVj7ggDZBxOrxC1TdzaHq87kC2QCLcB/s200/davidpumpkins.jpg" width="200" /></a>Mac is a junior in Civil
engineering at UF. He loves UF and just had a road trip to LSU with his core of
friends for “the best football experience of his life” (keep in mind the
Jaguars have set that bar pretty low recently). He plays intramural football,
soccer, and kickball with his friends and his goal this year was to win at
least one game. At 0 for 28, he did not succeed. Apparently either a very
unlucky group or not a very athletic one. Polly had to room with Mac and Murphy
on the family cruise this summer. After unpacking, they came to our room and
Polly was complaining that her room smelled like poop and B.O. within 5 minutes
of their arrival. Mac observed
"yeah, you really won the roommate lottery, didn't you!" Mac has been
working on becoming an adult. He moved out of the dorms so he could learn to
pay his bills, do his own grocery shopping and cooking, clean his apartment, do
his own laundry (at least I hope he is doing it), and learn to live
independently. Every now and then he and
his roommates cook and eat a meal together. They decided that it would be nice
to do a roommate/friend Thanksgiving and prepare an entire Thanksgiving feast.
Mac is my turkey helper and he gets up early on Thanksgivings to help me make
stuffing, stuff the turkey, load it in the bag, and put it in the oven. As a
result, he knows how long it takes to cook a turkey, but what he didn't take
into account was how long it takes to thaw a turkey! Mac went out, bought a
frozen turkey, stuffed it, put it in a bag, and tried to cook it. It took
longer than he had anticipated to cook, so when it was finally done he took it
out and carved it immediately without removing the stuffing. After carving it,
he started looking for the stuffing but the turkey was so moist (probably from
the melted ice) that the stuffing had just mixed with the juices and carved
meat and it was one big mush! But he said it tasted good and everyone enjoyed
the feast (except the unexpected vegan who couldn't eat anything because they
didn't know she was coming and everyone had used butter!)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xDJin0aBoFY/WFxTfTfnvPI/AAAAAAAACHc/UQN2nrOPnUoB2YGEvXLcSVqkEVrvrgbXwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xDJin0aBoFY/WFxTfTfnvPI/AAAAAAAACHc/UQN2nrOPnUoB2YGEvXLcSVqkEVrvrgbXwCLcB/s320/IMG_3883.JPG" width="240" /></a>Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays
to all and have a Happy New Year! Love, Alan, Beth, Sarah, Dani, Murphy, Polly,
and Mac<o:p></o:p></div>
Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-8984560809276869122015-07-06T14:29:00.002-07:002015-07-06T14:32:06.993-07:00Alan & Beth Hiking the Inca Trail VideosHere are the links to some YouTube videos I posted from our trip to Peru. They were shot with a GoPro Silver 4 and edited down to about 20 minutes each. There are broken down by days on the trail and there is an extra one from out days in the Ica desert.<br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpQlX6IasNg" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: white;">Inca Trail Day 1</span></a></h2>
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<img alt="Image result for inca trail to machu picchu" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRDqsbZW9RvQ-A_HgQtrGAjsqncFUBkI4VOnpvjRqMSnNFJ18hYzQ" /><br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pgcBvuZWl6o" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: white;">Inca Trail Day 2</span></a></h2>
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<img src="http://www.nuevomundotours.com/inca_trail.jpg" height="200" width="142" /><br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j2NsZZ5_fuk"><b><span style="color: white;">Inca Trail Day 3</span></b></a></h2>
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<img src="http://www.exsus.com/media/630753/panorama-of-machu-picchu.jpg" height="66" width="200" /><br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jkLjICPIb4" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: cyan;">3 days in the desert with Penny Cabrera</span></a></h2>
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<img src="http://media.afar.com/uploads/images/afar_posts/images/SXlE8TlocF/original_2aa3516d6ea80f0e7698a0cd93b901af?1327100825" height="133" width="200" /><br />
<br />Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-74387840468026461092015-07-04T07:02:00.001-07:002015-07-04T07:02:35.286-07:00Google University GraduatesFor many years I like many other scientists have had to deal with the newly minted Google graduates.<br />
Don't get me wrong, the massive amounts of data that is available now at the touch of a button is nothing less that astounding. Google can be a powerful tool much like PubMed when searching for scientific articles but there is a drawback....just because someone publishes it (book,journal,lecture,blog post,twitter) doesnt make it true. We all still suffer somewhat with our early educational training in school where what we read and were told was known to be true. Now when you read something there is still that default position that "it must be true" as opposed to being a healthy skeptic and asking " can that be true". This leads me into the current internet/and public media battle over "The Food Babe" and her campaign against "Toxins".<img alt="Image result for the food babe" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT59XX-wfqb2VWT18ag6bqfa5o56f9Rog17kjJtuexvBAAyyyydvw" /> Dont get me wrong here....I'm a firm believer that as a society we are eating the wrong stuff. We now consume a diet heavily tilted towards refined carbohydrates and wage war on saturated fat. This is the opposite of what we should be eating. I personally avoid grain based products and eat lots of meats,fats and vegetables....mostly what would fall I guess in a Paleo approach to eating. Term it how you wish ,it just feels normal to me. I am concerned about the use of GMO in our food supply for one main reason. Making your product resistant to a herbicide so you can spray your food supply with more herbicide just doesnt seem right to me. It is a brilliant scientific development as well as a great business innovation, but Im not comfortable ingesting herbicides.....even if at "safe" levels. The Food Babe has taken it upon herself to be the gatekeeper for scientific knowledge for a large number of people who follow her blog and book. If the gatekeeper gets it wrong.....then many are set on the wrong path because they have been misinformed. The Food Babe has weighed into the vaccine debate as one of the now growing "Anti-vaxer" community which I fear can lead to a resurgence in diseases we currently have the upper hand on. Looking at what she has written I have problems across the board with statements and conclusions that are drawn and apparently I'm not alone . here is a link someone else who has problems.<a href="http://gawker.com/the-food-babe-blogger-is-full-of-shit-1694902226">The Food Babe is full of $%!T</a><br />
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Also here is a link to the<img alt="Image result for the food babe" src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT_qO5LcwqbXZ2bk79gORMGwhhX5x9oLffedxPnljzgk4fO_AzC" /><br />
<a href="http://foodbabe.com/">Food Babe website</a> ...read with caution.Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-77298173517746396712015-06-14T15:57:00.001-07:002015-06-15T15:31:39.600-07:00Hendra VirusThere has been a serious viral problem in Australia since 1994 but now there is a new problem occurring. There is an anti-vaccination movement that is causing many many problems. Heres a link to a recent article forwarded from a friend in Oz about the problem.<a href="http://m.goldcoastbulletin.com.au/news/gold-coast/anti-vaccine-hendra-scare-campaign-causing-horse-deaths-on-the-gold-coast/story-fnj94idh-1227397685547">http://m.goldcoastbulletin.com.au/news/gold-coast/anti-vaccine-hendra-scare-campaign-causing-horse-deaths-on-the-gold-coast/story-fnj94idh-1227397685547</a><br />
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The virus is a flu like disease that can also cause neurologic signs and is highly fatal. It can be spread from horse to humans as well which makes this a serious public health concern for those in the Equine industry ...including Veterinarians. There is a vaccine available but it is expensive and many think that it is unnesessary and as a consequence are putting their horses ,themselves and their Veterinarian at risk. While Hendra isnt a problem in the US it highlights the "anti-vaxer" movements here as well. While we always needs to shine the bright light of scientific rigor on anything we give to our animals and ourselves, we also have to accept the data that disproves certain fears. This point is aimed at the so called link between autism and vaccines. There is NO evidence to even suggest that this exhists. There is however some interesting data emerging suggesting a link between autism and several other diseases and an altered GI microbiome. How this occurs is multifactorial but antibiotic use,C-section delivery and certain pesticides are current targets.Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-27155597904141831042015-06-13T10:52:00.001-07:002015-06-13T11:45:10.413-07:00HPAI (Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza) H5N2 ....something you might want to keep track of<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=17081314" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.3dscience.com/img/Products/3D_Models/Biology/Viral/Avian_Flu/Avian_flu_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.3dscience.com/img/Products/3D_Models/Biology/Viral/Avian_Flu/Avian_flu_1.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
Avian Influenza has been on the radar for quite a while as it has shown transmission from birds to humans and there have been minor outbreaks in several countries in Asia. Influenza virus is typically classified by the 2 major surface antigens H and N . There is a strain currently causing a major problem in the US bird and poultry population that may lead to problems at your grocery store. While infections in people make the news ,infections in chickens and turkeys usually dont. Here is an update on the current outbreak in the US that you should follow.<br />
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Heres a link to some data on the latest outbreak <a href="http://www.nwhc.usgs.gov/disease_information/avian_influenza/">http://www.nwhc.usgs.gov/disease_information/avian_influenza/</a></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">" 7 additional cases of the highly pathogenic H5N2 avian
influenza virus have been confirmed by the United States Department of
Agriculture Animal and Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Outbreaks occurred in Iowa at turkey farms in
Hamilton County (19,600 birds) and Sac County (42,200 birds). In Minnesota, outbreaks were reported at
turkeys farms in Brown County (39,000 birds), Kandiyohi County (4,000 birds),
and Renville County (4,800 birds) and a chicken farm in Renville County (15,000
birds). Nebraska reported an outbreak in
a backyard flock in Dixon County. To
prevent further spread of the disease, all affected premises have been
quarantined, and the surviving birds culled. Premises in four counties in
Arizona were placed under quarantine Friday (6/12/15) because they had received
chicken, quail or pheasant birds or eggs from a farm in Iowa in the week before
H5N2 was detected. The Iowa farm is suspected to have shipped similar samples
to other parts of the country. Follow up investigation, including laboratory
testing, is being conducted."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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While this sounds like a lot of birds (and it is) its still a small percentage of the overall commercial bird population. It still points out that this could be devastating to our domestic poultry production and make your fried chicken dinner more costly than you are used to . Lets hope we can get a handle on its spread or we may be even more thankful for that Turkey this Thanksgiving.<br />
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<a href="http://cdn2.theweek.co.uk/sites/theweek/files/styles/theweek_article_main_image/public/bird-flu-pic.jpg?itok=xhrOhvP5" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn2.theweek.co.uk/sites/theweek/files/styles/theweek_article_main_image/public/bird-flu-pic.jpg?itok=xhrOhvP5" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-64618776476218364892015-05-22T13:41:00.001-07:002015-05-22T13:41:19.082-07:00Hurricane Preparedness SeminarIll be talking tonight at the Clay County Fairgrounds about Hurricane Preparedness. Here is my Check list and a brief synopsis<br />
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Disaster preparedness for horse owners<o:p></o:p></div>
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As Hurricane season is upon us here in Florida it is past
time to seriously address the task of preparation. Efforts taken today can save
a great deal of anxiety and heartache in the future. Unfortunately, many of us
are procrastinators by nature and wait until the news reports of the
approaching storm prod us into some form of action. Every year when this
happens you find yourself frantically wandering the isles of your local store
searching empty shelves for bottled water and batteries with several hundred of
your closest friends and neighbors. This doesn’t need to happen. With just a
little time and effort now you will find yourself much more prepared and not
just another aimless zombie in the golden hoard. Even if you are like me and
lack the “organizational gene” you will find that following some simple
guidelines can help get you ready for the eventual day when, as they say…. the
manure hits the oscillating rotator. By breaking things down into simple check
lists you can start getting the things you need and the things you need to get
done checked off. You probably already have many of these items and just need
to get them together and inventoried.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Here are the disaster preparedness check lists we have for
our clients. Some things may apply to your area and others will not and need to
be adjusted to your geographical threats. The basics are the same regardless if
the threat is a hurricane, wildfire, earthquake or electrical grid failure. I
have broken these down into 1. Horses, 2. Farm, 3. Home, and tried to cover the
important items and tasks you will need to do. In the need of evacuation many
of these things will need to be organized into appropriate “go bags” or
“storage bins” so duplication of documents and some supplies may be needed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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HORSES:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Vaccinations- All horses should be vaccinated with Tetanus
toxoid yearly. Mosquitoes increase significantly after the hurricane and
transmit the Encephalitis viruses; therefore vaccination with
Eastern&Western Encephalitis as well as West Nile Virus should be boostered
prior to storm season.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Coggins test- Make sure you have a current negative Coggins
test and that it doesn’t expire during hurricane season. These are required for
interstate transport so have several certified copies for (truck, trailer and
important papers folder /scanned copy on a flash drive)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Health Certificate- these are required for transport as
well. You can obtain a six month event permit which will allow movement into
adjoining states. (Have extra certified copies)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Identification- Make sure your horse has a microchip ID and
register the number. Name tags on the halter “may” stay on but usually don’t
and won’t help if your horse is stolen or “adopted” after the storm.
Identification of horses that have died is extremely difficult after days in
storm conditions as they all look the same. Evidence from work done in
Louisiana and Mississippi after Hurricane Katrina showed that Microchip ID
allowed positive identification in >90% of cases. During Hurricane Andrew in
Florida it was almost the exact opposite since microchip ID wasn’t required in
Florida and was not readily available then. Most of the dead horses were never
identified.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Evacuation- Decide early if you are going to evacuate and have
a destination prearranged .Contact family members or camp grounds that allow
horses. Map out your evacuation route and all alternate roads to get there.
Have several maps in each vehicle. Leave at least 72 hours before the storm
gets close as roads and bridges will be clogged with traffic and higher winds
as the storm approaches may close some bridges to trailer traffic leaving you
stranded.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Important documents- keep copies of health records, Coggins test,
health certificate, ID numbers and photos in a Ziploc bag. Also, store copies
on a portable flash drive to be printed later if needed. Keep spares in each
truck and trailer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If you are not evacuating then it probably safer to turn
your horses out in a large open pasture that has VERY few trees, if any. Most
injuries occur from collapsed barns and flying debris. Just think about the
fact that your barn was probably built to take advantage of the prevailing
breeze to keep it cool and most likely done by the lowest bidder. That’s a bad
combo with a CAT 3-4 Hurricane.<o:p></o:p></div>
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FARM: (Walk your property, visual inspection.)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Check and repair all fences. Remove any barbed wire.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Clear trees and dead limbs (clear all red maple, it only
takes a few wilted leaves to induce renal failure in the horse….and they will
eat them).<o:p></o:p></div>
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Remove all debris. This becomes flying projectiles<o:p></o:p></div>
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Store all jumps, tables and chairs in a barn stall roped
together.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Get “tie-downs” for trailers, park them in a large open
paddock away from trees and power lines. Park trucks and tractor there as well.
Make sure they are all fully fueled.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Store feed- 7 day supply stored in water proof containers (1lb
/100lbs body weight x 7 days per horse)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Store hay in barn under waterproof tarp and off the ground
on pallets<o:p></o:p></div>
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Water supply- 15-20 gal/horse/day. You can fill up troughs,
boats,55 gal barrels, swimming pools etc. Bleach can be used to purify
contaminated water (8 drops /gal) but horses may not drink it if treated. A
hand “pitcher pump” for your well is also valuable with power outages. <b><u>Dehydration and renal failure is a
common source of death in horses after hurricanes.<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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Generator- 4hp (4000-5000 watts) with gas to last 7 days.
This can be done with 4x5 gallon cans using the generator intermittently. Tri
fuel options on generators are a great addition.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Extension cords- 4 long 100ft<o:p></o:p></div>
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Tools-<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Hammers and nails( you need a large and varied supply)<o:p></o:p></div>
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- fencing materials-field fence, fence tape, posts and
staples<o:p></o:p></div>
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-chainsaw, spare chain, gas and 2 cycle oil, bar chain oil<o:p></o:p></div>
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-ropes and tow cable, chain with hooks<o:p></o:p></div>
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- Ladders<o:p></o:p></div>
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-wire cutters and long handle pry bar (can still get to
supplies if barn collapses)<o:p></o:p></div>
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- roll of black plastic sheeting and staple gun to cover
broken windows and roof leaks<o:p></o:p></div>
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- flood light-work light with car adapter (1 million candle
power), head lamps for hands free work<o:p></o:p></div>
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-waders or snake boots<o:p></o:p></div>
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Extra halters and ropes- stored in sealed plastic bins<o:p></o:p></div>
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Medical supplies-<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Bandage material (sheet cotton, gauze, telfa pads, vet
wrap, duct tape<o:p></o:p></div>
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-wound medication (betadine scrub, Nolvasan solution and
ointment, triple antibiotic ointment)<o:p></o:p></div>
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-anti-inflammatory meds (Banamine, Phenylbutazone)<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Sedatives (Acepromazine, Xylazine)<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Antibiotics (Trimethoprim sulfa tablets, Procaine
penicillin)<o:p></o:p></div>
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-insect repellant<o:p></o:p></div>
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-syringes and needles<o:p></o:p></div>
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-scissors and knife<o:p></o:p></div>
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-clean towels<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ask your veterinarian for help and dosages on medications
that you need, we are there to help and educate.<o:p></o:p></div>
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HOME:<o:p></o:p></div>
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-water supply, 1 gal/person/day. A “water bob” ($20) can be
placed in the bathtub and once filled up holds 100 gallons of water and comes
with its own hand pump.<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Food storage, plan on at least 2-3 weeks supply. It could
be longer depending upon the level of disruption. The objective is to maintain
independence and not be dependent upon rescue or food supplied at refugee
centers. Trust me; historically it never works out well for the refugees. Most
canned foods are good for at least 2 years. Canned dried storage foods can be
good for up to 30 years as are freeze dried foods. These can be set aside in a
closet or under a bed in a guest room for a time when needed. Choose foods that
you like and fit into your regular diet. You should plan for several meals a
day as you do now and shop accordingly. Many online sites and the LDS church
provide sources for long term storage food.<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Generator, some form of electricity will greatly help when
the lights go out. This will allow you to maintain refrigeration, cooking,
lights and connection with the outside world. Gas to keep it running. Be aware
of exhaust and fire dangers and keep it well ventilated. Deflate the tires and
chain/padlock it to something to prevent theft.<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Solar lights, these outdoor LED lights can be brought
indoors at night and provide light for about 6 hours. They are bright enough to
use for reading and are much safer than candles and lamps. Once charged the
batteries can be disconnected until needed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Gas grill, for cooking and boiling water. Keep at least one
extra bottle of propane on hand as the grill will get a lot of use.<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Medical supplies, bandage materials, antibiotic ointment, anti-diarrheal
meds, anti-inflammatory meds (Advil, Tylenol) , any prescription medications
you are currently on. Injuries such as burns and cuts associated with farm
accidents should be your focus.<o:p></o:p></div>
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-A small cheap window unit air conditioner, keep stored in
the box in a closet. This will provide an unbelievable relief in the hot humid
post hurricane power outage (this is why you need a generator). We kept this in
our bedroom and slept like a baby with our kids and all our nieces and nephews
sleeping on the floor because we had A/C.<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Cash, with power disruptions the banks and ATMs will be
non-functional. Having cash on hand will enable you to at least be more
flexible.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Firearms, while it may seem unnecessary to some, you may
want to rethink this position. Police protection, phone service and street
lights will all be disrupted leaving those in our society that thrive on those
conditions to be emboldened. The sound of a generator and lights can send them
a signal that you have “stuff”. While much has been written on which guns are
best, I tend to think that the best gun is the one you have and are comfortable
using. The simplicity of a shotgun with appropriate sized shot is a nice
deterrent. Remember that having to defend yourself with a firearm will change
your life forever but it may be a price you have to pay to keep your loved ones
safe.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m sure this could be expanded many fold but keeping it
simple is a great way for many to get started. Going over the list every year
and adding to it to fit your needs is another way to keep the process of
preparation moving forward. Remember to keep some extra supplies for charity as
many of your neighbors may not be as well prepared or could be more severely
affected by storm damage. Be prepared to help them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The storm is coming; it’s time to get ready.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
CHECK LIST</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<b><u><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Farm & Barn To Do
List<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Make
sure ALL horses are micro chipped and numbers recorded<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 2.5pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Check
and repair fences (walk the fence line)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Clear
trees and limbs<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Remove
debris<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Store
jumps/tables/chairs<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Examine
barn for loose shingles/debris<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Move
tractor,trucks and trailers into large pasture<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Spare
fuel, store in trailer or stall, four 5 gallon cans, and all vehicle tanks full<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Get
tie downs for trucks and trailers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Store
feed-7 day supply-in water proof containers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Store
hay under tarps in a stall off the ground<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Water-15-20
gal/horse/day (fill up boats, 55 gal barrels,pools, troughs) (Bleach –8 drops/gallon if contaminated)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-<b>cut off power</b> to the barn as storm
approaches <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<b><u><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Farm & Barn Equipment list<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">WATER-Hand
pump for well (pitcher pump)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">WATER-55
gal drums (down spout on barn)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">WATER-pond,lake,pool,boats,troughs<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Generator
4 hp or higher (5000 watt)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Extension
cords(50-100 ft)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Tools-
hammers/nails<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Fencing
materials –field fence (no barbed wire) fence tape and posts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Chainsaw-extra
chain, 2 cycle oil, bar /chain oil/gas<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Ropes
and tow cable, chain with hooks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Ladder<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Wire
cutters and pry bar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Rolls
of black plastic and staple gun, large tarps<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Flood
lights- work light and hand held car plug in type (1 million candle power)
Headlamps<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Waders
or snake boots<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Extra
halters and lead ropes (in plastic storage bin)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<b><u><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Medical supplies<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Wound
medications (betadine scrub, nolvasan ointment, triple antibiotic)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Bandage
material ( sheet cotton, vet wrap, leg wraps, telfa pads, duct tape)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Anti-inflammatory
meds- Banamine, Bute<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Sedatives-
Acepromazine, Xylazine<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Antibiotics-
SMZ tablets, Procaine Penicillin<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Insect
repellant<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Syringes
and needles<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Antibiotic
eye ointment<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<b><u><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Personal supplies</span></u></b><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Canned
food or MRE’s (some last for 25 years)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-WATER-freeze
2 liter bottles (can use to keep your fridge cool) Yeti coolers are great and
can keep food cool for days.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-WATER-</span>
<span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">( a “Water Bob” , place in bathtub,
will hold 55 Gallons, cost $20)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-WATER-</span>
<span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Additional water source, 55 gal
drum set up under gutter down spout. Drill and tap with standard spigot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-multiple
head lamps, better than flash lights as your hands will be free to work<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Generator
and extension cords<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Gas
grill (spare Gas cylinder)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Small
cheap A/C unit ($ 100) store in closet<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Solar
yard lights. Leave out during the day and bring in a night ( no heat and safer
than candles and lamps)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Cash-
with power out ATM’s and banks won’t be open<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Fire
arms (if you have a generator everyone will know) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">(A
great deal of looting and theft takes place after storms)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-</span>
<span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Personal medical supplies<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<b><u><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Important Documents<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Scan
copies (or take digital photos) of all important documents and put them on a
flash drive, ie. Health Certificates, Coggins, Microchip ID numbers, photos of
horses, registration papers, proof of ownership.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Personal
papers- marriage certificate, birth certificates, driver’s license, SSN, credit
cards<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Video
all of your valuable items for insurance documentation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Keep
extra flash drives in multiple places ,trailer, glove box, by back door ( be
careful if sensitive info on these drives)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<b><u><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Evacuation Plan<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Know
where you are going<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Notify
friends and family (when and where you are going and how to contact you)<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><a href="http://evac.flahorse.com/"><i><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">http://evac.flahorse.com/</span></i></a><i><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><a href="http://www.aaep.org/info/horse-health?publication=786"><i><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">http://www.aaep.org/info/horse-health?publication=786</span></i></a><i><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Plan
your route, have maps, extra fuel, how long will you be on the road.<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Pack
supplies/feed and hay<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Personal
supplies, important papers, flash drive,$$$$$$<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">72
hour rule- get out before traffic gets heavy and weather turns bad (bridges
close with high winds)<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Turn off power<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></b></div>
Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-58978053410206325162015-04-13T20:11:00.004-07:002015-04-13T20:11:57.957-07:00Hiking Mt Sanitas Colorado On the 4 th day of our Machu Pichu prep we hiked Mt Sanitas in Boulder Colorado. We were tod by friends that if we could do this then we passed the fitness test. Not super high 6800 feet but 1350 elevation gain ( not 135 feet) A great workout. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jk61gBLWfU&feature=youtu.be">Here's a Go-pro clip of the hike.</a><img src="http://fitliv.com/Trail%20Run%20_%20cropped_1.jpg" />Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-63567488243345767862015-04-12T12:27:00.000-07:002015-04-12T15:46:04.192-07:00Getting Ready for Machu Pichu<img src="http://wanderingtrader.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Machu-Picchu-Peru-728x490.jpg" height="215" width="320" /><br />
<br />
Several years ago Beth came across a list of the 10 greatest hikes in the world. At that time we began contemplating a trek along the Inca Trail to Machu Pichu while we are both still physically fit. As I'm sure you are thinking....just how fit do I need to be and I would guess like me, you have read quite a few blog posts about undertaking this venture. When you watch the clips on YouTube of people on the Inca Trail you will be struck by 2 things (1) a lot of them are not in the best of shape and (2) most of them are wheezing. Since you need to book your trip about 6 months in advance you will have time to get yourself more than ready...Tip #1...start walking now. Beth has already done over 300 miles as we get ready for our trip in two weeks. She has used the "map my Run" app and it will keep track of just how far you have gone. Tip #2....if you are over weight ,remember it will be a lot easier going up and down if you dont have to carry extra weight. I suggest looking into a healthy diet/life change like the Paleo approach. A good place to start is by just giving up processed foods and staying on the lower carbohydrate side of macronutrients. What we have been told for years about what is and is not healthy is mostly reversed and the food pyramid is upside down. I dont want to preach so just shop on the outer isles of the store and stay away from boxed foods....it could actually end up saving your life.<br />
One thing everyone is concerned about is AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) and for good reason. AMS is somewhat unpredictable and your level of fitness doesn't really tell you if you will be affected . Being more fit can make the symptoms more tolerable and recovery easier , you can still get sick if you are not careful. To that end, Beth and I went to Colorado last week to hike at altitude as a self test. We flew to Denver and then met friends in Boulder to hike in the Flat Iron mountains for 4 days and reproduce the distance we will be hiking in Peru. While it is not Dead Woman's Pass (13,900 feet) we did get up to 9,000 ft and did 6-9 miles a day without any significant difficulty.<br />
Here are some signs of AMS to watch out for:<br />
<ul style="background-color: white;">
<li><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Headache</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Nausea & cramps; Dizziness</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Loss of appetite</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Fatigue</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Shortness of breath</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Disturbed sleep</b></span></li>
<li><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>General feeling of malaise</b></span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">You can find some great info on AMS here at</span><span style="color: yellow; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <a href="http://www.traveldoctor.co.uk/altitude.htm">The Travel Doctor</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">here are some suggestions for helping prevent this from happening to you.</span></div>
<div>
<img alt="Image result for acute mountain sickness" src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT6uy5pTWYgzvW5aaToYVWvNVnEhOBg0ydMaKaClD4LoXxK3JPscA" /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If possible, don't fly or drive to high altitude. Start below 3,000 metres (10,000 feet) and walk up.</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you do fly or drive, do not overexert yourself or move higher for the first 24 hours.</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you go above 3,000 metres (10,000 feet), only increase your altitude by 300 metres (1,000 feet) per day, and for every 900 metres (3,000 feet) of elevation gained, take a rest day to acclimatize.</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Climb high and sleep low! You can climb more than 300 metres (1,000 feet) in a day as long as you come back down and sleep at a lower altitude.</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you begin to show symptoms of moderate altitude sickness, don't go higher until symptoms decrease.</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If symptoms increase, go down, down, down!</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Keep in mind that different people will acclimatize at different rates. Make sure everyone in your party is properly acclimatized before going any higher.</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Stay properly hydrated. Acclimatization is often accompanied by fluid loss, so you need to drink lots of fluids to remain properly hydrated (at least four to six litres per day). Urine output should be copious and clear to pale yellow.</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Take it easy and don't overexert yourself when you first get up to altitude. But, light activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, exacerbating the symptoms.</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Avoid tobacco, alcohol and other depressant drugs including, barbiturates, tranquilizers, sleeping pills and opiates such as dihydro codeine. These further decrease the respiratory drive during sleep resulting in a worsening of symptoms.</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Eat a high calorie diet while at altitude.</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Remember: Acclimatization is inhibited by overexertion, dehydration, and alcohol.</span></b></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We used our trip to Colorado to also test out our gear and cameras. The new GoPro worked great and with the spare battery it should be fine. I also picked up a solar charger that should help as well. </span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: magenta;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0QqxAO53Uw"><span style="font-size: large;">Here is a link to a YouTube video</span></a> </span>of our first day hiking in Boulder. It also helped us prepare for snow( shouldnt be any) because we got covered.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: small; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YxlRXfwjSoI/VSrV4iISKdI/AAAAAAAABh0/Dr1IGn5UNoQ/s1600/10856792_10153150631230731_6473976973758292227_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YxlRXfwjSoI/VSrV4iISKdI/AAAAAAAABh0/Dr1IGn5UNoQ/s1600/10856792_10153150631230731_6473976973758292227_o.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: small; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YM9TOlUIdn8/VSr00W8lHbI/AAAAAAAABiE/Icd-OU5RarI/s1600/Colorado%2Bmountains.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YM9TOlUIdn8/VSr00W8lHbI/AAAAAAAABiE/Icd-OU5RarI/s1600/Colorado%2Bmountains.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V35Cokl85QU/VSrVmLO2ZrI/AAAAAAAABhs/33aTehG7vyo/s1600/Snow%2Bcovered%2Bhikers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V35Cokl85QU/VSrVmLO2ZrI/AAAAAAAABhs/33aTehG7vyo/s1600/Snow%2Bcovered%2Bhikers.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><br />
</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'll post more as the day of departure approaches as well as plenty of tips and video once we get back</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cheers</span></div>
Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-17872250871500266912014-01-06T05:29:00.000-08:002014-01-06T05:29:38.395-08:00Puppies stolen in Florida foundStrange story, I did not realize that Frenchies were the 3rd most stolen dogs. heres the link<br />
<a href="http://ca.news.yahoo.com/man-arrested-suspected-80-000-dog-heist-florida-003055577.html">Stolen puppies found</a>Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-83641119650924013752013-12-18T05:11:00.001-08:002013-12-18T05:11:10.848-08:00The much anticipated -Annual Weldon Christmas letter 2013<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoHeader" style="margin-left: -.25in; tab-stops: center 3.25in left 463.5pt right 6.5in; text-indent: .25in;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After Thanksgiving it’s time to count our many
blessings. All kids are doing well and all grandparents are still kicking. We
lost our access to Cumberland but enjoyed our last few visits. We spent New
Years at the beach with the annual tree burnings. We took 2 cruises (at least
some of us did). We went to St. Louis twice, Seattle, Cumberland, the beach, Halloween
Horror nights, and St. Augustine. We had lots of visits from friends and family
and Will, Charlie, and Sam even made a road trip down for a visit and had some
fun at Universal with the cousins. We cruised to Jamaica last December with
Polly, Murphy, and niece Katie. Somehow we all got hoodwinked into buying Tiki
dolls after climbing Dunn’s River falls (even Murph who is still scratching his
head trying to figure out how he got dragged in when he specifically told them
he had no money, pointed me out, and gave them my name to try to distract them
from hounding him). I do not usually have trouble saying no but these were the
most persistent vendors I have ever run across and even I felt bad
declining<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>when they had already carved
my name in one. After purchasing said Tiki dolls, several incidents made us
wonder (drops on toes, poor TV reception when they were near, cancelled
excursions, etc.) if they might be cursed but we were too afraid to destroy
them! We are down to 2 cats, 5 Italian greyhounds (at this writing Mishka,
Dani’s IG has another broken leg just like last year at this time but the other
front leg), a crazy lab, and 3 canaries, an all time low for us. I am going to
get chickens when the permits are available. We lost the Tritt’s as neighbors
this year but luckily they will always be family. We have 2 large houses being
built on the lot next door and it is a bit of a trial with construction and
people frequently blocking the road. If anyone is looking to move, it’s a great
area and the neighbors (at least across the street) are wonderful!</div>
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Alan
is an adjunct professor at UF and has vet students go through his practice for
their medicine rotation. He joined the admissions committee for the vet school
as well. He hired a new associate and has a 4 vet practice. He is active at
church and helps with the A/V every Sunday as well as serving on the session
and the Denominational Steering committee. Alan is instrumental in the Van
Cleve haunted house and outdid himself again this year with the super soldier
gone horribly wrong theme. Alan plays team USTA tennis, surfs, revels, and
works out. He has become the Paleo diet guru encouraging grass fed eggs (hence
the imminent chickens), butter, and meat and organic milk etc. We are mostly
gluten free at home with lots of whole foods (things that remember being in the
ground or water, on the bush or tree, or on the hoof/claw with no additives).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He weighs less than he did when we got
married and Murph was lamenting the fact that Alan’s abs are better than his
despite his youth and 100 sit-ups every night. Alan smugly pointed out that six
pack abs are made in the kitchen not in the gym! He has stopped taking Lipitor
(and his cholesterol is lower) and feels that his mental acuity is greatly improved.
He remembers details from classes in vet school and prides himself on recalling
more than his students can! Though his memory may be improved, his gracefulness
is not, while escorting Polly to the stage to be crowned queen of Revellers in
February she came to a sudden and jarring halt almost doing a full face plant
when he stood on her train! He claimed the lights got in his eyes. I think he
may have been over served! While on the Mexico cruise we were all sitting on
deck having a cocktail hour when a flying bug landed on Alan’s foot. Before he
could gather his wits and shoo it away, it keeled over dead! There was a lively
discussion after that about how toxic Alan must be to kill a bug without even
touching it no matter how healthy his diet. Alan took Sarah and Polly to the
homecoming game last month and they had to watch the Gators lose to Vanderbilt at
home for the first time since 1945, made me glad Mac and I were visiting the
Coast Guard Academy and Margaret at Yale (Alan insisted we go take pictures of
the skull and bones society building)! Alan and Mac are sharing a new Lab pup named
River. She is VERY high energy but Alan has been taking her to be trained for
Field Trials. She has done very well after getting sent home from puppy camp
the first week because she was a “barky butt”! Since then she has been to 2
trials and has achieved her Hunter Retriever Title. She is awfully smart for a
goofy dog. This summer while Polly was working on the computer, River came up
to her with a framed picture of 2 ducks in her mouth and dropped it because she
wanted to play fetch! </div>
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I
do NOT weigh what I did when we got married (but I am not totally gluten free).
I still work 3 days a week at Merrill Animal Clinic with a wonderful group of
co-workers and enjoy my profession. Parkway Animal Hospital (where I worked for
22 years and was still doing surgeries once a month) closed and I miss seeing
everyone from there. I have been gardening and harvested lots (or in some cases
a few)of blueberries, blackberries, green beans, potatoes, herbs, oranges,
lemons, peppers, spinach, cabbage, kale, romaine, lima beans, nectarines,
peaches, and onions. I still read a lot and try to spend some quality time with
Alan. We went to Seattle for the ACVIM meeting and enjoyed seeing everyone
there. We went to several concerts in St. Augustine and saw the legendary Chuck
Berry at Blueberry Hill in St. Louis for Sarah’s graduation. He’s amazing if a
bit off of his game these days as he just turned 87 and played Nadine 3 times
in a row (luckily <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like that song)!
Alan says that is what happens if you eat wheat and take Lipitor. We also
visited St. Louis for Connie’s 70<sup>th</sup> birthday and as always enjoyed
seeing everyone. Alan reminds me to mention our “quality time” couple’s
colonoscopy because nothing shouts romance like tandem colonoscopies! I am
starting to wonder about Alan’s sensibilities. Earlier this year we were
sniping at each other one evening and when I got home the next day, I checked
my e-mail only to discover that somehow I had been signed up to receive 3
menopause monthly letters. I might have been annoyed if I hadn’t been laughing
so much at the vintage Alan move (and the fact that I knew he was actually
trying to be helpful!)</div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
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Sarah graduated from Wash U in St. Louis
and is waiting to hear about Occupational therapy school (hopefully at UF). In
the meantime, she is working mornings as a receptionist at Merrill filling in
for the three pregnant receptionists going out and in (which is what got them
pregnant in the first place) every 6 weeks. She is taking classes, working 3
days a week nannying afternoons, volunteering with occupational therapists at
Wolfsons Children’s Hospital, and last but in my opinion most impressively, (and
with the patience of Job) helping my parents as often as they can snag her with
techno problems (dad has called her 3 separate times, once at work, to help him
get his phone off of airplane mode!) She does odd jobs, house, baby, and dog
sitting and has made enough to almost pay off her new car of 4 months as well
as starting on her student loans. She got a 2003 white and tan convertible
mustang with about 80,000 miles on it. She says that she has always wanted a
pony and is very thankful she finally got one! I was not happy about the
convertible part but she loves it and Alan pointed out that he had one at about
that age (which is why I am worried). Sarah went on a Bahamas cruise after
graduation with a Wash U. friend and Dani (who was apparently the sane and
sober influence!)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We took a family
cruise to Mexico and Grand Cayman with everyone in August so that everyone but
Dani (she joined the game too late) has Platinum status on Carnival, “the
Greyhound of the Seas”. Sarah and Alan got their concealed weapons permits
together (good daddy-daughter bonding time?). While Alan wore his Infidel (in
Arabic and English) shirt, she took the class in her Peace, Love, and Joy
t-shirt! She spent almost 2 months travelling through Europe this summer with
Anna, and Alan said it was Sarah and Anna’s Excellent Adventure. Sarah, Mac,
and Polly have been discussing a road trip to Comicon (basically a giant nerd
convention) in California for years. When they found out that Dragoncon (a
little smaller nerd convention) in Atlanta had John Barrowman and most of the
Star Trek cast there they decided to attend over Labor Day. They had a
wonderful time and I ponied up for a photo with Shatner (who now looks more
like Jabba the Hutt than Captain Kirk)!</div>
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Dani
is graduating in less than 2 weeks majoring in Psychology with an Accounting
minor from UF and is planning to start accounting graduate school at UF this
fall. She has been doing very well in her classes and her research methods
paper was used on-line as an example of the best paper the professor had ever
read. She brought her date (a model) to her birthday dinner in June and we all
liked him a lot but Dani couldn’t make up her mind. She is more focused on her
studies. Polly volunteered to step up to the plate if Dani is done. While on
our cruise this summer, I was walking along after lunch shopping with Dani and
Sarah and minding my own business when a man ran out of a shop and grabbed me
and started going on about taking good care of me and being a good son-in-law. Before
I could knock him out with my 13 pound purse (I actually weighed it once), Dani
explained that he had dragged her into his store earlier, told her she would be
his wife and then gave Sarah and her free jewelry and told her to bring her
parents back to seal the deal! Despite this generous offer, she is planning on
living in Jacksonville after graduation until school starts so she can save
some money for a car like Sarah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It will
be nice to have Dani, Sarah, and Mac all living at home.</div>
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Murph is a
junior at UNF majoring in business. He lives off campus and I suspect plays too
many video games. He has finally decided to take school seriously and is doing much
better at it. He goes to most Jaguar games except if he needs to study (which
is how I know he is taking school a bit more seriously)! The kids used to eat a
lot of pasta and now that Alan has declared grain to be Satan’s excrement, I
pulled all of the pasta out of the cabinets and sent it with Murph to school
(he is most definitely not grain free). Last time I drove out to take him
grocery shopping, he presented me with a box of mac and cheese dated 2004 that
he thought I might want to keep it since I had had it almost as long as our 10
year old dogs (shades of my mother)! I was just thankful that it was the only
one after going through my cabinets. Murphy turned 21 this year and celebrated
at midnight on his birthday with Alan and an a 21 year old bourbon at Mojos. Murph
is my techno kid and when we went on the cruise this summer, the power went out
on the ship before we had even gotten under way. A distressed Murph immediately
knocked on our cabin door and regaled us with video and text descriptions of
other Carnival power problems involving water rushing down the hallways and
feces floating out of bathrooms (I must say the new iphone retina display is
quite vivid)! There has been some heavy betting about Murph’s’ 1997 green Chevy
truck with 265,000 miles and whether or not it will see the new year. It died 3
weeks ago and we looked into getting another vehicle for Murph but the mechanic
is so fond of this truck (I think it paid for his wife’s’ new car) that he
offered to rebuild the transmission for only $1000 (which Alan thinks is less
than what we will get in trade-in for the truck “if” it is running). So the
green truck was brought back from the dead and Murph now calls it Lazarus or the
zombie truck. (Have you noticed the” I need a car” theme from the first 3 kids
yet?)</div>
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Polly is
in her second year at FSU (she timed that right for football!) but is already a
junior. She plans to apply to vet school next year but probably will not get in
her first try and will take her full 4 years at FSU. Polly worked at Parkway
for 4 years and then started working at Merrill this summer. Dr Woods was
wondering if the entire Weldon clan was on the payroll since Murph did some
painting there and Alan does Ultrasounds for us! He has to hire Dani and Mac if
he wants the whole family! Polly does Cuong-Nhu and is up to her green belt.
She volunteers at the wolf preserve and gets great photos with wolves,
groundhogs, skunks, and foxes. She was there Halloween weekend and was assigned
to the fox enclosure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After the 3<sup>rd</sup>
enquiry of “What does the fox say?” she started deadpanning into “interesting
that you should ask, foxes actually make over 30 different vocalizations. They
yip, growl, bark, whine, chatter, chirp, cry, purr, huff, cough, cluck, scream,
howl, shriek, hoot, gekker, etc.” she would stop when their eyes glazed over.
Polly seems to collect an unusual array of young men (the maybe vegetarian
Buddhist, the painfully shy Yankee, and the introspective young writer who
named her in a 3 page blog discussion about whether or not she was his possible
soul mate and if he should make the effort to ask her out since he would
graduate in a year and leave Florida) none of whom interest her romantically.
She got a hangnail this summer and got such a bad infection that she had to
have her nail pierced and the doctor put her on antibiotics. The 3<sup>rd</sup>
day on antibiotics her face swelled like she had been in a prize fight due to a
drug reaction. On her way home from the doctor after her second visit and an
antibiotic change, she was holding her arm up straight<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>with the3<sup>rd</sup> finger extended to
minimize the excruciating, pounding pain from swelling and infection when she
happened to look at the car next to her and saw a shocked looking man staring
at her throbbing up-raised bird finger! Polly is such a nerd that when she took
a sci fi class with almost 300 other nerds in it at FSU, she was the only person
in class to get the Darmok reference (Alan says if you get this, the next
statement applies to you as well!) While her professor was impressed, the
friend next to her commented (from one nerd to another) “You really should get
out more.” One of Polly’s highlights was a guest lecture by Neil DeGrasse Tyson
(the Stephen Hawking of her time according to Polly). A friend held a spot in
line for her for 3 hours because she was in class and they were on the second
row. When he opened the floor to questions Polly got to ask “if you had to pick
a fantasy world to live in which one would it be?” He loved the question and
when she got in line to get her book autographed they started chatting and his
people finally had to shoo her away so others could get their books signed (She
claimed a similar incident occurred with Brent Spiner in Atlanta). Polly was
ecstatic!</div>
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Mac is a
senior at Episcopal and it is amazing how much easier open house and teacher
conferences are with one as opposed to four kids. Mac started the Model United
Nations at Episcopal last year with his home room teacher and he and a small
but devoted core have been participating in activities and doing fairly well
for a new group. He loves politics and history and enacted the role of Stalin
in 1939 discussing the invasion of Poland by Germany last month at the Old City
MUN conference. Mac’s Episcopal team placed 5<sup>th</sup> out of 40 at the
Academic World quest without ever having practiced. Mac played spring football
with Mark Brunell (best Jaguars quarterback ever and now coach of the Episcopal
Eagles!) but decided he wanted to run cross country in the fall before
wrestling. He got the Coaches Award last year for wrestling and is team captain
again and may have a chance of going to state if he can ever get over the
mystery rash that has been plaguing him the last 2+ weeks. In one of his early
matches he was about to pin his opponent when he noticed the photographer for
the yearbook. He held his opponent in place, mugged for the camera, and then
finished pinning him after several prime shots! I berated him afterwards and
asked how he would feel; he responded that he would not be on his back so it
would not be a problem (vintage Mac and shades of Alan). Mac humored me and
went to visit the Coast Guard Academy last month for the Science, Technology,
Engineering Program. He actually enjoyed the program and created a homemade
flashlight with LED lights, a battery, and solder. Mac wondered if it was ok to
take home as we only had carry on bags and I assured him that the Coast Guard
would have warned him if it was a problem. When we arrived at the airport,
homeland security was not amused, turns out batteries and wires are pretty much
what they look for at those screenings! Fortunately, Macs’ Coast Guard info
packet was right under the suspicious “device” and they believed us after a
thorough investigation (Alan says it was not thorough because there was no
cavity search but he was just disgruntled because he felt like he had just had
one thanks to the Homecoming loss). I asked Mac if there had been two projects
and they assigned different students different ones, if so, his chances for
getting in do not look good! Mac apparently checked a box on the SAT form that
colleges could “contact” (insert send more junk mail than I have ever seen) him
and he has been inundated. No telling where he will end up. I hope Coast Guard
because I think Mac will want at least 3 degrees and better he get paid by
someone else to attend school than a Weldon footing that bill! Merry Christmas
and/or Happy Holidays from Alan, Beth, Sarah, Dani, Murphy, Polly, and Mac! We
have been truly blessed!</div>
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Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-27891037998444546692013-11-30T07:58:00.000-08:002013-11-30T07:58:20.533-08:00Humans are arrogant , and just when we think we know it all.......Humans are arrogant , and just when we think we know it all.......scientists find a new body part.<img class="irc_mut" height="196" id="irc_mi" src="http://rationalarrogance.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/steve-jobs1.jpg?w=1200" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="320" /><br />
Doctors at University Hospitals Leuven discovered found a ligament in the knee associated with the Anterior cruciate ligament. Think about that, of all the knee surgeries performed in the world over the years and all the Med school anatomy classes....how did we miss that. To me this is an outstanding discovery, not so much for the significance of this small ligament but for the fact that we dont know everything.<img class="irc_mut" height="149" id="irc_mi" src="http://remarkableleader.files.wordpress.com/2013/05/einstein-arrogance-v-confidence.jpg?w=479" style="margin-top: 33px;" width="200" /><br />
Its worth the read.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.iflscience.com/health-and-medicine/new-human-body-part-discovered">I F-ing Love Science</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
University Hospitals Leuven</div>
<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
University Hospitals Leuven</div>
<img alt="An image of a right knee after a full dissection of the anterolateral ligament (ALL). " height="425" src="http://d1ysl7jllvc86l.cloudfront.net/sites/www.iflscience.com/files/styles/ifls_large/public/blog/%5Bnid%5D/original%20%2812%29.jpg?itok=dOCZHyuq" width="640" /><br />
<br />Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-82636213314768221572013-11-17T20:10:00.000-08:002013-11-17T20:10:11.984-08:00The hidden danger of dietary Trans-fatsGreat article from <a href="http://suppversity.blogspot.com/2013/11/ldl-p-drops-by-27nmoll-with-every-1.html">Suppversity</a> , well worth your time. <br />
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name">
LDL-P Drops by 27nmol/L With Every 1% Reduction in Trans Fat Intake. Plus: "Trans-Fat Free" Does Not Mean Risk Free!
</h3>
<br />
This article makes a really good point...most dietary advice is bogus and it's even more so when it comes from a government agency. However, they have it right on the wide spread use of Trans-fats.<br />
These are partially hydrogenated vegetable oils are everywhere in our food supply . I prefer the name "Industrial seed oils" . These oils have a hydrogen atom added to change the storage and cooking characteristics so that the can be stored for longer periods of time. What must be realized is that these oils, aside from the severe detrimental effects of the high omega 6 content, become incorporated in cell walls causing abnormal permeability and function. New studies have determined that Trans fats also cause an increase in the LDL-p (number of circulating LDL particles). The LDL or Low Density Lipoprotein is a blood component that carries cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood stream. When inflammation is present these LDL particles cross through the inflamed vessel wall and become trapped within the vascular layers. The cholesterol carried by the LDL particle then sets up a reaction where the body sends inflammatory cells to the site to fix it in place, thereby causing plaque formation. The essential point is that it is a combination of inflammation and high circulating LDL particle number that leads to coronary artery disease and NOT cholesterol or the LDL-c that is typically measured. Most people don't have the LDL-p measured but should and can do so very easily with several websites and private labs available. A great one is <a href="http://www.directlabs.com/">Direct Labs</a> . With this company you can request the lipo science Lipid NMR test and they will send you an actual count of your LDL particles as well as their size and your potential risk of heart disease.<br />
Now with all that said, how do Trans Fats play into this equation? What has been shown is that trans fats increase the number of LDL particles and the industry is cleverly hiding in their products by downsizing them in a
way that "one serving"contains less than 0.5g of transfats - that's the
magic loophole in the FDA regulations according to which transfats
don't have to appear on the label, as long as the total amount <u>per serving</u> is less than 0.5g. So how much Trans fat is is the food you may be eating? Take a look at the following chart for the % of trans fats found in french fries and chicken nuggets.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img class="CSS_LIGHTBOX_SCALED_IMAGE_IMG" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jerj_JDFYM4/UoZL3qiDeAI/AAAAAAAAadY/kksKikp6rdM/s1600/a.png" style="height: 233px; width: 321px;" /> So what effect does the hidden or "Unreported" 0.5 grams of trans fats that are not reported on food labels doing to our LDL-p numbers....well it cant be good. "If we assume that there is a linear relationship between LDL-P and
trans-fat intake (obviously this is a gross simplification) and make a
rough and scientifically highly questionable estimate of the
consequences, we will find that those unlabeled 0.5g of transfats could
boost your LDL levels from the first into the third tertile of LDL-P
values in the Prado study (+by 675nmol/L).... that this would also mean
that a daily dose of only 0.5g of hidden trans-fats could triple your
likelihood of arteriosclerotic plaque should be obvious, right?" Now that should get your attention.Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-19250427307583804652013-11-17T14:45:00.000-08:002013-11-17T14:45:02.515-08:00New PanicMe App ....interesting This is a new app out for both Android and IOS formats. It will allow you to hit a button on your phone and send a message and your GPS coordinates to a list of family and friends from your address book. I have looked into this for my kids phones....you might consider doing the same thing.<br />
<a href="http://www.breitbart.com/system/wire/upiUPI-20131115-181119-5032">Panic Me review</a><br />
<br />
Here's the link to the developer called DataMe who created the App in cooperation with British police<br />
<a href="http://www.datame.com/">http://www.datame.com/</a><br />
<br />
<div id="banner-text">
Welcome to DataMe – the replacement app to ‘contacts’ for your
mobile. DataMe automatically ensures the contact details in your phone
are always up-to-date, and makes staying in touch really easy.<br />
<span style="font-size: 16px;">• Enter your details once; send them to your selected friends’ phones.
</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">• Tailor how much information you send to friends on an individual basis – DataMe never goes to people you don’t want it to.
</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">•
You don’t have to tell your friends if you update any of your details
– their phones will instantly be updated, and vice-versa, when you
change yours.
</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">• DataMe is available in many languages, for staying in touch with friends and colleagues in different countries.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">
• Store phone numbers, addresses, email addresses, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, Skype and Birthdays.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">• Call and email directly from DataMe.
</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">• See the percentage of information you have for each contact, request additional details to fill in any gaps.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">•
All data is password-protected and backed up – one less thing to worry about if you lose or replace your phone.
</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">• DataMe is FREE – there are no fees or charges!</span><br />
</div>
<br />
Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-26327628085250721232013-11-17T14:28:00.001-08:002013-11-17T14:34:44.988-08:00Look out for the Super bugsIt's been a growing problem for years but it seems that more and more people are becoming aware of the real problem facing society of antibiotic resistance<br />
Take a look at this article from the Independent. <a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/superbugs-could-erase-a-century-of-medical-advances-experts-warn-8944617.html">Superbugs </a><br />
<img alt="http://www.sgh.com.sg/Patient-Services/PublishingImages/superbugs.JPG" class="decoded" src="http://www.sgh.com.sg/Patient-Services/PublishingImages/superbugs.JPG" />".In a stark reflection of the seriousness of the threat, England's deputy
chief medical officer, Professor John Watson, said: "I am concerned
that in 20 years, if I go into hospital for a hip replacement, I could
get an infection leading to major complications and possible death,
simply because antibiotics no longer work as they do now."<br />
When you look at how many pharmacy's now offer "Free" antibiotics you can see just how huge this problem is going to become.<br />
"We try hard not to prescribe, but it's difficult in practice. The
patient will be dissatisfied with your consultation, and is likely to
vote with their feet, register somewhere else or go to the walk-in
centre and get antibiotics from the nurse."<br />
<br />
Can you imagine going into the hospital for a joint replacement that causes chronic pain but is not going to kill you and end up with either an amputation or death from a bacteria that is now resistant to all of our antibiotics. Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-46191956135143090632012-12-21T06:15:00.002-08:002012-12-21T06:15:39.142-08:00The Annual Weldon Christmas Letter-version 2012<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hG3QS2gfciY/UNRsjRKGQOI/AAAAAAAAA3I/Q6atsIopMWg/s1600/Picture2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hG3QS2gfciY/UNRsjRKGQOI/AAAAAAAAA3I/Q6atsIopMWg/s200/Picture2.jpg" width="119" /></a></div>
<div class="Body1">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9zSjVqzGefA/UNRslbHoNkI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/ieX-Y91fxSY/s1600/Picture3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9zSjVqzGefA/UNRslbHoNkI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/ieX-Y91fxSY/s320/Picture3.jpg" width="191" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L1xJ6FRpzrM/UNRs8a5C2VI/AAAAAAAAA4I/EmkNnWrk7Z0/s1600/Picture7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L1xJ6FRpzrM/UNRs8a5C2VI/AAAAAAAAA4I/EmkNnWrk7Z0/s320/Picture7.jpg" width="319" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HLWcA5h4jtM/UNRs7s_BiSI/AAAAAAAAA4A/rrMBRR6QHrA/s1600/Picture6.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HLWcA5h4jtM/UNRs7s_BiSI/AAAAAAAAA4A/rrMBRR6QHrA/s1600/Picture6.png" /></a><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">Merry Christmas and/or Happy
Holidays! I thought that as the kids got older, more self sufficient, that my
life would slow down a bit leaving more time to watch sunsets,etc. I am still
waiting. All grandparents are doing well. Mom and dad just got back from
Cambodia and Vietnam Nam for moms 80th birthday! Mom asked at Sunday dinner
where she could go to get her ears pierced. Assuming it was a senior moment, I
reminded her that her ears were already pierced and she looked at me like I was
nuts and said, "I got my first piercing at 40 and now that I am 80, I am
ready for my second hole (Alan spit beer out of his nose)”. At least it is a
second ear piercing and not a belly button piercing! We went to Puerto Rico
spring break minus Sarah who was at spring rowing practice. We had a typical
Weldon adventure traipsing off on our own looking for rock petroglyphs through
fields on mountains, leaping across stones in a fast moving stream feeling
quite adventurous until Alan missed his leap and split his knee. The rain
forests were beautiful and there were squished iguanas all over the road. We
did a Florida college road trip with Polly and Mac and saw UCF, USF, FSU, and
UF in 2 days. We spent a week at the beach. We took a family trip to the Waldo
flea market (actually quite interesting) and Silver Springs for a glass bottom
boat ride. All 7 of us made the Bahamas cruise (see camo shot, a bone of
contention but after negotiations, if no Facebook, ok for Christmas letter
use). We had our annual Halloween Horror nights trip and introduced the Van
Cleve's to the Rain Forest Cafe, one of my favorites. We spent Thanksgiving on
Cumberland again with the Van Cleve's and had a great Turkey Bowl game with the
Islanders. Alan and I went to a Beach Boys and a Moody Blues concert in St.
Augustine, a great Monkees concert (one of Davy's last) in Jacksonville, and
Tib's Ben Sollee concert at Ponte Vedra. We had fun at the ACVIM meeting in New
Orleans and enjoyed seeing many friends there. Alan went on a trip sponsored by
Purina to St.Louis in October and saw Sarah briefly. We cruise to Jamaica this
Saturday with Polly, Murphy, and our niece Katie.</span></div>
<div class="Body1">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9J011g34ul4/UNRs5T9N4fI/AAAAAAAAA3o/SsC8ps03ISc/s1600/Picture4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0ko7jnsI858/UNRs6YFMa4I/AAAAAAAAA34/1piwp0xi5xw/s1600/Picture6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0ko7jnsI858/UNRs6YFMa4I/AAAAAAAAA34/1piwp0xi5xw/s320/Picture6.jpg" width="320" /></a><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9J011g34ul4/UNRs5T9N4fI/AAAAAAAAA3o/SsC8ps03ISc/s1600/Picture4.jpg" /><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Alan is doing well, working out (The Beast
by Beachbody is his current choice of weight lifting torture), playing team
tennis, surfing, reveling, working very hard, and just having fun. We put in an
outside shower for Alan for Fathers Day and he is really enjoy sitting in the
hot tub, unwinding and easing some of the old age aches, and then showering.
Alan says that if the neighbors have night vision goggles we might be in
trouble until the banana trees get<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>bigger, I think we are more of a deterrent to using their night goggles
than anything else! Alan is a diet nazi, no wheat, high fat/low carb, the Paleo
diet, basically animals and vegetables and a little fruit. He got an 82 inch TV
for his birthday and he loves it. At the Beach Boys concert in St.Augustine
with Pam, Theresa, Hailey, and the Mikes this summer, we were running late so
Alan, in high tech style sent a voice to text message to Mike saying
"running late, getting a couples massage first, will meet you at Osteen's
later". After our massage, Alan checked his phone and saw Mikes response
was a "?". Alan rechecked his message and saw that the
"auto-correct" had changed his text to "Running late getting
massage and molesting teens " he quickly sent a text explaining what had
happened, Mike replied "wondered!" Alan hasn’t learned that the kids
are really no longer kids. This summer he started rough housing on the beach
with Mac and before he knew it, he was on his back in the sand. He says the
only way he got loose was to use the "scrotal roll". I did not even
ask! Later that evening, after we went home, showered, and were in bed I
reached over to give Alan a goodnight pat and ended up picking shells out of
his back. Three days later he had a dermatologist appointment to check for skin
cancers and as the doctor was checking his back, he told Alan "you have a
rough spot here I better check". Yes, it was indeed yet another shell!</span></div>
<div class="Body1" style="margin-right: -4.5pt; tab-stops: 531.0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have had
a very blessed year as always but we lost Nessie our lab at 9.5 to stomach
cancer and Sarah's cat got attacked by 2 dogs causing multiple abdominal
herniations and a fractured back in my driveway. She is such a pistol she was
still laying nose to nose with them in a stand off when I arrived on the scene
despite her injuries! After surgery and 6 weeks of cage rest and medication
(and many wounds on my part) she is up and walking but still wobbling a bit
like a drunken sailor. Not happy at all with confinement!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two weeks later Alan heard a cat meowing and
he ran outside afraid that the dogs had come back for our other cat and he
found her hanging upside down where she had gotten stuck while climbing the
fence.(This is the most uncoordinated cat I have ever seen and is frequently
breaking things and falling off of beds, furniture, whatever). Mac had to help
him get her out, she was sore but fine. As I was writing this I heard
screeching in the back yard and ran outside to find Scrabble (Dani's Mishka)
our 11 month old Italian greyhound pup with a broken front leg! I work out and
play tennis a bit, currently have a bruise from my knee to my ankle from the
Thanksgiving football game (Mac was unhappy because we missed his favorite
football last Thanksgiving, I guaranteed him a game so I had to scrounge up
people and play), and am trying to adjust to Alan's gluten-free wishes (I have
cut back but am not as adamant as he is). Perhaps my most memorable moment of
the year was the shark dive on our cruise with all 7 of us before everyone
headed back to school. Polly has always wanted to dive with sharks and Alan has
tried to set it up on previous cruises but the timing at Stuart Cove,(the
famous one in Nassau) never worked. It was not going to work on this trip either
so Alan checked to see if there was any shark diving in Freeport.There was only
1 shark dive, only on Fridays at 1:00. We got in at noon on a Friday and the
dive shop was 15 minutes from the dock so it was perfect, or so I thought. I
must admit that diving with sharks has never been on my "to do" list
and I was perfectly happy with our previous failures but most of the kids were
excited and Polly was ecstatic so I went with the flow. The 2 other booked
people did not show so it was only the 7 of us and 2 dive "Masters".
As we headed out, Polly enlightened us with stories from "shark week"
like the man that got attacked by a shark, punched it, got his hand bitten off,
then punched it with the other hand and had that one <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>bitten off too! She advised us that sharks
could sense fear and that it attracted them and I could feel my stomach start
to clench. I decided to ignore Polly's lecture and turned to the nephew in this
mom and pop dive operation. I warned him that Dani has trouble getting down
because of her ears. He assured me that he would stay with her and help as he
had some tricks she could try (of course he stuck to Dani like glue)! I then
advised him that Mac has frequent nose bleeds, but had never had one while
diving (although this was only his 4th dive). He verified "but not while
diving? " I said that this was correct. He seemed satisfied. I asked if
they ever had any trouble. He looked at me and smiled and said "dey be
sharks mon, deys always trouble with sharks!" I felt the knot in my
stomach get tighter. We arrived at airplane reef and I went in first to make sure
it was safe for my babies as my protective instinct was on high alert. I
descended, reminding myself that this was the easy dive and the second one was
the shark dive and that I needed to relax so no sharks in the area would sense
my fear and come to investigate...then I saw the first shark, a 4-5 foot black
tip reef shark sitting on the bottom watching me. I looked up and noted that
one master was working with Dani trying to get her down and the other master
was helping everyone else get into the water. Polly came scurrying down the
anchor line and Sarah immediately after her. I pointed towards the 2 large
sharks and tried to put myself between them as Polly reached her hand out! Definitely
got that from Alan, I would never in a million years reach towards a shark
(unless it had one of my family in its mouth) and then I reminded myself
"stay calm,think happy thoughts". Murphy came down quickly followed
by Mac and Alan and yet 2 more big sharks! We now had 4 large sharks swimming
around us on the bottom and no dive master so I did not know if this was okay
or not. The 6 of us instinctively made a circle on the bottom facing out and
then Mac tapped me on the shoulder and I looked at him and wondered how he had
gotten seaweed in his mask. Then it hit me, blood is green under water and that
was a nosebleed and we were surrounded by sharks and I knew my terror was
attracting every other shark for miles to the Weldon buffet line. I cursed but no
one else had a clue what was going on(except of course Mac), I pointed
immediately up the anchor line and shoved Mac in that direction. I turned to
check the sharks and number 5 broke away from the rest and headed slowly for
Mac. I hurried to get in between them reminding myself to only punch with my
left hand and then the remaining stub. Thankfully the shark swerved at about 8
feet away, my pulse is elevated just recounting the incident! At this point the
dive master arrived with knife in hand and waved us quickly away, Mac had made
it back up to Dani and the other dive master at the boat and no sharks had
followed, so I shooed my children after him and lagged back to keep an eye on
the sharks. They did not follow but I noticed that every time I stopped to look
back, Murphy was also stopping frequently and checking too. Alan was happy as a
clam filming my panic with his Go Pro camera. We continued on with only one
more shark sighting in the distance and Dani and Mac and the other dive master
joined us. The dive master started handing us bread to feed the fish. When I
held the bread out, one very hungry (or aggressive) fish took a hunk of my
finger with the bread and then I was bleeding! I hurried over to show the dive
master, he seemed unconcerned but I was holding my finger as tightly as
possible to prevent any leakage. Finally the dive was over and I breathed a sigh
of relief. When I got on the boat, I noticed that the seas had picked up
because hurricane Irene was following us. Alan had given everyone Bonine but we
had to sit and wait 30 minutes for the next dive while the real shark divers
with metal suits came to set up for the feeding. Turns out our dive master
drove their boat for 10 years so when he got certified he just started tagging
along behind, charging 1/2 as much, and watching from a distance and they let
him. The nephew told us that sharks are attracted to sand stirred up on the
bottom because they think it is a wounded fish and that's why all the sharks
were surrounding us. At this point, Murph and I decided that we had already
dived with sharks and we were done. As the seas started getting even higher, we
all started to feel queasy. I was the first leaning over the side and as I was
getting ill, Murphy and Mac immediately jumped back in for the second dive
(apparently avoiding the high seas was more compelling than avoiding the sharks
for Murph, not me!). As I leaned over the side, I realized that fish were
leaping out of the water when one bumped my nose, apparently they were enjoying
my breakfast more than I was! I could hear Alan over my shoulder asking Mac if
he was alright and I heard a lot of splashing. Apparently Mac jumped in, then
got sick and was absolutely swarmed by fish! He was thrashing and trying to
scare them away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Alan got into the water
behind Mac and Murph who were already in trying to settle their stomachs. When
he arrived at the bottom, Murphy and Mac were digging in the sand like dogs
burying a bone! He stopped them and they finished their shark dive with Polly
reaching out, yet again towards another approaching shark. When they got back
on the boat Alan was berating the boys "didn't you get the memo about
disturbing sand attracting sharks?" Murph responded "yeah, But I was
bored". The video is on you tube. </span></div>
<div class="Body1">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sarah will graduate this May and is
applying to grad school for Occupational therapy, she rows crew for Wash U,
works at a cookie company called Dough to Door and has finally had enough winter.
Last spring, Alan was very upset when he read the Drudge Report one evening and
the first story up was about a riot in St. Louis on Delmar, Sarah's street! He
called Sarah, she told him that she was at work when the crowds of people came
by and that her boss asked her to take a tray of free samples out to the mob.
Perhaps she is not their favorite employee! When Sarah came home this summer,
Alan invited Sarah and me to go out with the Taylors to a surprise. We both
agreed and headed out with a group of 6 friends. Kendall told us we were going
to a show at a bar. Sarah was excited because this was her first trip to a bar
as a 21 year old. When we arrived we ordered food and found out the show
starred transvestites! Sarah and I were fine, Alan was not! It was a very
entertaining show and everyone had fun and Alan even went up on stage with us
after the show for a picture. As Kendall was getting the picture, she yelled to
Alan to bend over some so we would all fit in the picture. The performer behind
us immediately piped up "Do you really want to bend over in front of a
bunch of drag queens!" We all busted out laughing! Hard first bar
experience to beat.</span></div>
<div class="Body1">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dani also turned 21 this year and will
finish at UF at the end of this summer with a double major in psychology and
accounting. She has gotten yet another speeding ticket (#5?) and so decided to
stay home and work to pay for that and a dropped class instead of coming on the
Jamaica cruise (don't know if the shark adventure had anything to do with
that). She will be applying for the masters in accounting program at UF. She
keeps telling me that they have a 100% employment rate. I sure hope so. My
favorite Dani story happened at the dinner table and as usual it involved an
unsavory topic. Alan was fussing about me not stopping when we are on trips
because I like to get there once we start. He compared me to his dad who once
when they were little made his brother go number 2 in a bait bucket in the back
of the car because he did not want to stop. Dani was horrified and exclaimed
"why couldn't you just go in the woods like a civilized person!"
She's come a long way and we were all teasing her because she now thinks going
in the woods is civilized !<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="Body1">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Murphy is a business major at UNF. He has
a roommate and an apartment. He has given up on the Jaguars and so we rarely
see him (which I assume means all is going well). On our trip to Puerto Rico
when we arrived at the accommodations, Murphy selected a bed, jumped in to
claim it, and discovered that it came with a pair of brown panties and a bunch
of sand! Murph did come to church with us (a rarity) on Mothers Day. As I sat
next to him, I noticed an angelic smile on his face and I was thinking how nice
it was to have Murphy with me on Mothers Day, and then he started fanning with
his program and I discovered to my surprise that he was fanning gas at me on
Mothers Day! I see why they call it a pew! </span></div>
<div class="Body1">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Polly is attending FSU and loves it! It is
a perfect fit for her and other than some roommate woes, she is adjusting well.
She told me about the huge guy headed for the gym who saw her watching some
birds and walked all of the way around the building to avoid disturbing them
and then watched with her for awhile. She loves helping at the Wolf preserve
and has attracted a tuba playing Buddhist admirer/stalker. She has had a few
glitches. When her first midterm came up she advised me that she was going to
stay up all night studying. I told her that I thought this was a bad idea but
she insisted and I made her promise not to leave the library unescorted in the
wee hours. I got a call from her the next morning and she was in tears. When I
asked what was wrong, she told me that she had studied all night, gone to
breakfast, taken a shower, put on her pajama pants, and sat at her desk to
study, next thing she knew, her roommate shut the door and woke her up 15
minutes before her 2 hour exam ended. I asked her where she was now and she
replied "running to class in my pajamas". I told her that was good,
everything would work out and to calm down. She was sure she would never get
into vet school now because she was going to fail genetics. I advised her to
talk to her professor that he might give her an F, or let her take the exam and
penalize her some points, or let her take a retest, or if she was really lucky,
he might let her take it with no penalty. I told her to hang up, run faster,
and catch her professor to see what would happen and to call me back after
speaking to him. I didn't hear back for an hour and a half so I figured she was
taking it. When she called, her professor had taken one look at this sobbing
freshman in her pajamas and took pity on her, allowing her to take the exam
with no penalty but advising her a good nights sleep would probably be more
productive than studying all night. Alan and I both thanked God that she was at
FSU as they are a little kinder and gentler than UF (where Dani has had similar
experiences but with no compassion)! When a distraught Polly told Mac about her
experience, he burst out laughing, exclaiming"Polly you actually lived the
nightmare everyone has of sleeping through an exam!" Polly was in-sensed
(but it was funny). This year Polly decided to give up soda for Lent, this
meant that when we went to Puerto Rico for spring break she had to drink piña
coladas instead, somehow this did not seem quite right! We found a stretch of
beach that had 55 kiosks (small restaurants, bars, or shops not much more than
fancy shacks) all next to each other. They were numbered and we were eating
some great seafood at #13 and ordering piña coladas and Polly somehow ended up
having hers, Mac's (he ordered a virgin but got one with alcohol which he did
not like), a refill, and maybe Dani's too(Dani preferred the Mojito), and when
we left she kept insisting she only had one as she giggled and listed towards
home. </span></div>
<div class="Body1">
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mac is a junior at Episcopal. He ran cross
country and is captain of the wrestling team. He is doing well this year and
has lost to 3 opponents in 14 matches so far. He is taking a bunch of AP classes
and doing a good job in school. Mac had a girl friend for a while but decided
it added too much drama to his life and he does not like drama. Poor Mac is the
only one left at the dinner table but he and Alan seem to enjoy discussions on
theoretical physics, or the Krebs cycle (Alan actually remembered the steps, I
forgot the specifics the second I walked out of my last exam on it), or what
makes food spicy hot (capsaicin and pain receptors on the tongue). The 2 of
them amaze me. Polly and Sarah were talking 2 weeks ago and Polly told Sarah
that ice had been discovered on Mercury and she could not wait to call Mac and
tell him a scientific fact that he did not already know. Sarah said she had to
hang up because she had to talk to somebody. They hung up but when Polly called
home the phone was busy. She tried again 10 minutes later and when she reached
Mac, she proudly imparted her information. He told her that he already knew
because Sarah had just called and told him!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Mac came home with a new black lab pup today as an early birthday gift.
He named her River Song. God Bless! Love, Alan, Beth, Sarah, Dani, Murphy,
Polly, and Mac!</span></div>
Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-79113794242951045912012-12-11T15:46:00.001-08:002012-12-11T15:46:47.653-08:00Interview on Dr Jhn Rossi's PodcastI will be doing an interview with Dr John Rossi tonight on his show<br />
"Whats wrong with my Pet" John is a classmate of mine from Vet School and a great friend....this should be fun<br />
<br />
<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/whats-wrong-my-pet-john-rossi/id535531571">Whats wrong with my Pet Podcast</a>Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-39050317878362208892012-12-11T15:41:00.000-08:002012-12-11T15:41:36.770-08:00Equine Anaplasmosis<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TqxVAz7-Hzc/UMfEG_0ShnI/AAAAAAAAA1M/FfZSvEvbp2M/s1600/Anaplasma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TqxVAz7-Hzc/UMfEG_0ShnI/AAAAAAAAA1M/FfZSvEvbp2M/s1600/Anaplasma.jpg" /></a>Equine Anaplasmosis is a tick borne disease caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum. This disease used to be known as Equine Granulocytic Ehrlichiosis and is caused by a intracellular gram negative organism that is carried within the common deer tick (<i>Ixodes</i> <i>scapularis) , </i>this is the same tick that carries Lyme Disease.<i> </i>Once inside the horse the organism replicates inside the white blood cells and makes its way throughout the body. Initially you will see signs of depression and occasionally limb swelling, jaundice and ataxia (stumbling). Some horses will also show petechiation or small red pin point lesions on the gums and sclera. The typical course of the disease is 1-2 weeks and may be self limiting but can also be quite debilitating with multiple complications involved. Diagnosis requires a good history and physical examination since many common illnesses can present with vague signs initially seen in early or mild cases. Lab tests such as a CBC and serum chemistry can be very helpful in elucidating the cause. Common findings include 1.anemia 2.thrombocytopenia 3.leukopenia and 4. inclusion bodies within the white blood cells.<br />
<br />
A serum chemistry can help rule out other causes of similar symptoms and any possible organ involvement. Treatment consists of using specific antibiotics such as Tetracycline or doxycycline, antiinflammatory medication such as Banamine or Phenylbutazone and general supportive care. Frequently these horses will not want to eat or drink and may require IV fluid support to prevent dehydration. Hydrotherapy for swollen limbs along with soft bandaging can also be helpful. To confirm suspected cases of Anaplasmosis there is are several specific diagnostic tests available such as the SNAP 4dx test for antibodies , PCR and serology for raising titers to the organism. Additionally attention to the possibility of laminitis must be included such as standing in ice and sole support. The Prognosis for the horse is usually excellent with a complete recovery provide complications are limited. Tick prevention is important and there are reports of the use of fipronil containing products being successful.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d17ziy9asyw/UMfENOwjhiI/AAAAAAAAA1U/7bQUJDoV-5I/s1600/Ixodes_dammini_deer_tick_01.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d17ziy9asyw/UMfENOwjhiI/AAAAAAAAA1U/7bQUJDoV-5I/s320/Ixodes_dammini_deer_tick_01.png" width="320" /></a>KEY POINTS TO WATCH FOR:<br />
Signs of depression and lethargy<br />
Swollen limbs<br />
Fever<br />
Yellow mucous membranes with possible petechia<br />
History of tick bites<br />
<br />
<br />Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-11129283297331495372012-11-20T14:52:00.001-08:002012-11-20T14:52:34.049-08:00Take the Digital Influence Survey<span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>It's Here, The 2013 Technorati Media Digital Influence Survey:</strong></span><br /> <font size="3">Formerly, State of the Blogosphere</font><br /> <br /> <strong><a href='http://survey.qualtrics.com/WRQualtricsSurveyEngine/?Q_SS=9QAqVfWXvW3GU5f_eku1pUVNtpQMSwd&_=1'>Please click here to take the survey now</a></strong><br /> <br /> <strong>Your Input Will Make the Difference</strong><br /> As a digital influencer, your input is important. By participating, you're ensuring your voice is heard, not only by us, but by brands and other influencers as well.<br /> <br /> The Results of this Study Will Show You:</span><br /> <ul> <li> <span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Insights into what's working for influencers in social to expand reach and get their content shared</span></li> <li> <span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">What brands are looking for specifically when working with digital influencers</span></li> <li> <span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Benchmarks from other digital influencers so you can see how you stack up</span></li> <li> <span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">What metrics and tools others are using to measure themselves and their performance, as well as what brands are using to measure campaign success and effectiveness</span></li> <li> <span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Plus much more</span></li> </ul> <span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">In er to receive a copy of the report, you must first complete the survey. <br /> <br /> Your responses are anonymous. You'll also have a chance to win a tablet of your choice (choose from an <strong>Apple iPad4, a Microsoft Surface Tablet, or an Apple iPad Mini</strong>). We'll conduct a random drawing of those who complete the survey once it's closed. One winner will be chosen,<br /> <br /> Your opportunity to contribute and benefit from this <strong>survey ends on Wednesday, December 12th,</strong> so please click below to take the survey today:<br /> <br /> <strong><a href='http://survey.qualtrics.com/WRQualtricsSurveyEngine/?Q_SS=9QAqVfWXvW3GU5f_eku1pUVNtpQMSwd&_=1'>Click here to take the survey now</a></strong><br /> <br /> It should only take about 15-20 minutes of your time.<br /> <br /> Thank you,<br /> Technorati Media<br /> <em>"Activating influence every day"</em><br /> <br /> If you no longer wish to receive email from us, please click below:<br /> <font size="2"><a href='http://survey.qualtrics.com/CP/Register.php?OptOut=true&RID=MLRP_6kQRuaRu9RiyEE5&LID=UR_7Qe6ut9AxmCw9RH&_=1'>http://survey.qualtrics.com/CP/Register.php?OptOut=true&RID=MLRP_6kQRuaRu9RiyEE5&LID=UR_7Qe6ut9AxmCw9RH&_=1</a></font><br /> Technorati, Inc., 360 Post Street, Suite 1100, San Francisco, CA 94108</span>Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-86862290769313390802011-12-23T06:50:00.000-08:002011-12-23T07:17:47.248-08:00The Annual Weldon Christmas Letter<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TGmM-uuLENg/TvSW86fqsLI/AAAAAAAAAzA/kMeyxDmxnQg/s1600/christmas%2B2011.17.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TGmM-uuLENg/TvSW86fqsLI/AAAAAAAAAzA/kMeyxDmxnQg/s200/christmas%2B2011.17.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689338202514174130" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Well here is a quick glimpse into our lives....Beths Christmas Letter<br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:relyonvml/> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> 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</style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:-22.5pt;margin-bottom: 0in;margin-left:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height:normal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri;" >Merry Christmas to all! We have had a happy, healthy year. </span><span style=";font-family:";" >I thought that I woul</span><span style=";font-family:";" >d be more organized this </span><span style=";font-family:";" >year and so Sarah e-mailed the funny incidents that</span><span style=";font-family:";" > </span><span style=";font-family:";" >happened throughout the year so that I could write the letter without m</span><span style=";font-family:";" >y failing memory.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Unfortunately, m</span><span style=";font-family:";" >y computer died in early November and I lost all of my e-</span><span style=";font-family:";" >mails. Some of you will be </span><span style=";font-family:";" >celebrating that my</span><span style=";font-family:";" > letter is not as newsy (long) or outrageous (embarrassing to all involved) this year. Next year I will have to try a </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TqIoqhd9QYA/TvSajAWWhyI/AAAAAAAAA0g/uTCNW6Kgq70/s1600/IMAG0256.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 78px; height: 131px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TqIoqhd9QYA/TvSajAWWhyI/AAAAAAAAA0g/uTCNW6Kgq70/s200/IMAG0256.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689342155455629090" border="0" /></a><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;mso-bidi-Times New Roman"font-family:";" >hardcopy and hope I don’t lose it again or try backing up my computer and attempt e-mails one more time!</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;mso-bidi-Times New Roman"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" > </span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >All grandpar</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >en</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >ts are doing well and we just got back from an activity packed 80th birthday weekend for Pop in St. Augustine where he did th</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >e Alligator f</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >arm obstacle co</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >urse/zip lines! Mom informed everyone</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" > no gifts, just a fond Pop memory oh, and an obituary for Pop, both to be read at his birthday dinner. None of my kids ha</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >d even read an obituary. Family trips to Cumberl</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5mDIIWCDTO8/TvSaO-qkKJI/AAAAAAAAA0U/7oEQLe_Jl7w/s1600/christmas%2B2011.24.bmp"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 129px; height: 114px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5mDIIWCDTO8/TvSaO-qkKJI/AAAAAAAAA0U/7oEQLe_Jl7w/s200/christmas%2B2011.24.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689341811406153874" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >and, St.Louis, the beach, the Okeefenoke swamp, a cruise to the Bahamas with Mer</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >le and Anna, Halloween Horror Nights, a Vet school reunion, visits from cousins, Woolstons, and Sheldons, and a family survival course (including Kat</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >ie and Tucker)with expert Byron Kerns kept us busy. Alan has completed 3 rounds of P90X and one of Insanity both intens</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >e physica</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >l fitness programs. He pre-ordered the newest one “P 90X2</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >” and when I</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wi7jNIitmy4/TvSWvt35k9I/AAAAAAAAAy0/WORXqIdhAks/s1600/IMAG0367.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 98px; height: 164px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wi7jNIitmy4/TvSWvt35k9I/AAAAAAAAAy0/WORXqIdhAks/s200/IMAG0367.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689337975787852754" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" > called him to say it had arrived he asked me if Tony Horton was there (the workout guy on the DVD)! I thought he had lost his mind but apparently Tony was hand delivering the first few that were ordered and Alan thought that </span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >might be his or</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >der. (I think </span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >we may have to do an intervention). Somehow I got shanghaied into 1 round of P90X (90 days) and the Insanity round (another 90d</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >ays)with him ( did I mention the need for an intervention) Alan dropped 15 pounds, I didn’t lose an ounce (but I did eat whatever I wanted without gaining and it's been a long time since I got to do that)! Alan is playing on 3 </span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >league teams as well as Monday night tennis. He and</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" > Mur</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >phy are going to the USTA league Nationals in March at </span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >Indian</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" > Wells in California. Alan’s new associate Katie, is working out beautifully. He is serving as an e</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >lder </span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >at First Presbyterian church. We go to all of the Jaguar home games (unfortunately this year). Alan and Murph have started taking their bags to the games to be the Baguars when appropriate.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Alan finally got a n</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >ew (used) F150 and traded in his old truck with 350,000 miles on it. He has a real problem letting go of things with a lot of miles on them, I guess I should be glad. Alan and I went to see the Monkees with the Bowers and Mike and Pam at The Florida Theatre and it was a blast. Last time I saw the Monkees in Jac</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >ksonville, Jimi Hendrix was opening for them and it was the 60’s (h</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >e was booed off the stage because we all wanted to see Davy). We also went to see the Moody Blues in St Augustine with the Mikes, Teresa and Pam. We went to the AC</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >VIM conference with Erik & Patti, DL, Cheryl and the boys in Denver and had a great time. </span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >As we headed out to the conference I went through my first full body x-ray at the airport.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I was standing there unco</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >mfortably as the female homeland security guard was examining me, and she comment</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >ed "Oh, I really like your shorts, they are so cute." I was wondering if she was just trying to make conversation in an awkward situation or if she really</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" > liked my shorts! </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>S</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bQJ0xpxP5Bs/TvSWeMeHF3I/AAAAAAAAAyo/fAphjGL8tZ4/s1600/christmas%2B2011.5.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 136px; height: 102px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bQJ0xpxP5Bs/TvSWeMeHF3I/AAAAAAAAAyo/fAphjGL8tZ4/s200/christmas%2B2011.5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689337674763540338" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >arah is doing well at Wash U and lives in apartment style University housing just off campus. She is in her junior year and is a Psychology major hopin</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >g to become an occupational therapist. She works at a cookie shop called Dough to Door and has on</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >ly eaten 3 cookies while working there for 2 months which just boggles my mind! She uses a bike to get to her classes and when asked if it was a mountain bike or street bike she replied "a blue bike". (In fairness to Sarah, she borrowed it from a friend of Sally's and probably doesn't even know what make it is). She took some classes at U</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >NF this </span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >summer to get all of her prerequisites for OT grad school at Florida com</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >pleted by next year. She had her first college boyfriend this year. Their first date was to the school cafeteria on Valentines Day. Before they decided that they were dating, Sarah want</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >ed to make sure that they had no misunderstandin</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >gs so she laid her ground rules (Alan “She is so like her mother!) They actually dated 6 weeks!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Alan presented her last Christmas to finish her debutante year. Sarah is such a rule follower, I think she was the only </span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >deb (maybe in the history of the tradition) who refused to break the r</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >ules and never drank because she was under age! She is enjoying crew despite having to be at practice every morning at 5. She is a kind, stubborn, smart, loyal, demanding, fun, honest, sometimes judgmental, hardworking, </span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri;" >mature, and considerate person and makes me proud to be her mother!</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3MpO9tzKjyA/TvSWQPtLLMI/AAAAAAAAAyc/J-eewQi4inM/s1600/dani%2Bprofile.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 64px; height: 146px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3MpO9tzKjyA/TvSWQPtLLMI/AAAAAAAAAyc/J-eewQi4inM/s200/dani%2Bprofile.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689337435113860290" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >Dani is also in her junior year at Florida majoring in Psychology and min</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >oring in accounting.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>She made it to the finals in a modeling search at Abercrombie and Fitch where she was working until September.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Dani had to write a short story in her Spanish Composition and Grammar class. Her professor posted the 3 best stories online and the class</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FYr2qYgvZu8/TvSXv3dCSmI/AAAAAAAAAzY/T1LXBTfpgsM/s1600/christmas%2B2011.21.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 117px; height: 102px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FYr2qYgvZu8/TvSXv3dCSmI/AAAAAAAAAzY/T1LXBTfpgsM/s200/christmas%2B2011.21.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689339077871159906" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" > voted on the best</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" > one and Dani</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >'s won by a large margin earning her a book as a reward. She continues to work for her Cognitive psychology professor in the aging a</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >nd cognition lab (does Family get a discount?) and plans to go to graduate school of some sort after graduation. Alan resolved to teach all of the kids how to properly shoot a handgu</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >n this year.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When he took Dani to the gun range, she told him that she was so nervous about handling a gun that she was nauseous but she followed his instructions and </span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >did a great job. After her session, she was so proud she said she was going to take her target to Gainesville and put it on her front door to discourage any would be </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style="mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri;" > </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >attackers! Dani also caught her first fish this year on Cumberland, a bonnet head shark (go big or go home). Dani is a lovely, thoughtf</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >ul, picky, industrious, intelligent, neat (unusual in the Weldon household), outgoing, s</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >ometimes a bit extravagant, playful, and determined person and she makes me feel honor</span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri;" >ed to be a part of her life!</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Murphy is in his sophomore year at UNF and is a business major. He plays just a little tennis, a LOT of video games, and goes to Jaguar games with us. He had his first real job this summer working as an assistant to Arnold Tritt's </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kfjUdsWfFmU/TvSXZFaSj0I/AAAAAAAAAzM/bbcFyJcH1vM/s1600/christmas%2B2011.14.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kfjUdsWfFmU/TvSXZFaSj0I/AAAAAAAAAzM/bbcFyJcH1vM/s200/christmas%2B2011.14.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689338686480748354" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >maintenance supervisor and it was a superb experience. He learned how to fix AC's, plumbing, roofing, duct work, mowing, and even replaced 2 toilets. He made good money and is saving it to purchase a car. It nearly <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>came to naught in Murph's early weeks while he was giving Spencer (his supervisor) a ride to their </span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >j</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >ob at </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XbdZMOHz1nA/TvSY6jdNKII/AAAAAAAAAzk/_lCT8Tnnbhw/s1600/IMAG0819.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 120px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XbdZMOHz1nA/TvSY6jdNKII/AAAAAAAAAzk/_lCT8Tnnbhw/s200/IMAG0819.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689340360993351810" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >the beach moving Arnold's family. Murph made the mistake of "Hot boxing" his boss (passing gas in a closed vehicle). Spencer wheezed "Is that you, boy?" Murph embarrassed</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >ly explained that he had eaten at Moe's (a </span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >Mexican restaurant) last night. Spencer grumbled "I don't think I'd be eating at Moe's any more!" Only Alan's son would get in trouble at work for passing gas!( That’s </span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >my boy) When they got to the beach, Arnolds wife</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" > Danielle said to Murph "You are learning so much, you are </span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >going to make someone a great husband someday!" This time Spencer muttered "I pity the fool!"Murph is still trying to find his direction as far as career options (recommendations are welcomed, at least by me). Murph is a quiet leader, tends to take the path of least resistance, often helps without being asked, frequently thinks of others, can be a bit bullheaded, has a great sense of humor, has a great work ethic when he commits, is always willing to come home and hang with P</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >olly and Mac when needed, has a great brain (when he decides to use it), honors his elders</span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri;" >, and is a true blessing in my life! </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Polly is a senior at Episcopal and going through the college application process. She likes FSU, UCF, and UF. She has already gotten into Auburn and FSU. She is still working at Parkway on weekends and 2 days after school. She just finished cross country and was awarded the Coaches Award and given a Varsity letter as well even though she ran JV wh</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gGAw3C2kKX0/TvSZL54CZMI/AAAAAAAAAzw/1AWPazMTIsg/s1600/Picture8.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 99px; height: 112px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gGAw3C2kKX0/TvSZL54CZMI/AAAAAAAAAzw/1AWPazMTIsg/s200/Picture8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689340659069248706" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >ich made her ecstatic! She is taking 4 AP classes and Honors Algebra as well as working, volunteering, and running cross country and is one of the busier people that I know. She wanted to return to the Dominican</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oJs7aALVnDQ/TvSZgq29GqI/AAAAAAAAAz8/skhVHGKtQzI/s1600/christmas%2B2011.20.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 88px; height: 126px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oJs7aALVnDQ/TvSZgq29GqI/AAAAAAAAAz8/skhVHGKtQzI/s200/christmas%2B2011.20.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689341015815428770" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" > Republic for another mission trip this summer but we send each child only once so she used her earnings from Parkway to pay her own way. A major goal this year is to get her braces off before prom. She was off campus for lunch with friends when one of them got pulled over. The officer didn't believe that they were high school seniors an</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >d called the school to verify and make sure they were legally off of campus. After verification, he looked back at Polly and told her "You look like you are 10!" “You look like you have eaten too many doughnuts” she replied silently in her mind. No wonder she wants her braces off. Dinners have shrunk and Polly and Mac have developed a language of their own that involves lines from and references to The Office, Scrubs, Futurama, or movies they’ve seen. Usually Alan and I don't have a clue what they are talking about. Murphy ‘s fluent in this language and Sarah claims to understand it but can’t speak it! Polly had a scare this year when her dog Momo got too close to our psycho cat Pauly. Pauly lunged at Momo and happened to get a claw right into her jugular vein. Momo proceeded to screech and gush blood and a panicked Polly came runnin</span><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >g up to me in the shower screaming that Momo was dying. I reminded her that she hopes to be a vet and to calm down and hold the wound off. By the ti</span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri;" >me I got out of the shower it was clotting and we placed a bandage. I got abused at work the next day because only an Iggy (Italian greyhound) could be mortally wounded by a single cat claw puncture! Polly is bright, hardworking, a bit sensitive, inclusive, congenial, humorous, not the most coordinated, entertaining, vivacious, and brings me much joy.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;line-height: normal"><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" ><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Mac is a 10th grader at Episcopal and is dreading Polly's imminent departure for college. He ran cross country with Poll</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dJY8VZyehoc/TvSa6B54zoI/AAAAAAAAA04/mT-Uj4UBmLU/s1600/christmas%2B2011.9.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 133px; height: 89px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dJY8VZyehoc/TvSa6B54zoI/AAAAAAAAA04/mT-Uj4UBmLU/s200/christmas%2B2011.9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689342551010102914" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:Calibri;" >y, Pepper, and Tucker and is currently wrestling on the Varsity team. When the coach told Alan that wrestling would be good for Mac because it would give him confidence, Alan almost refused to let him do it since Mac has confidence to rival Alan’s' (which is quite a lot)! Another common occurrence at t</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CqfOwCcUVIo/TvSbMagoJKI/AAAAAAAAA1E/nhjas4wAKVw/s1600/christmas%2B2011.12.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 123px; height: 164px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CqfOwCcUVIo/TvSbMagoJKI/AAAAAAAAA1E/nhjas4wAKVw/s200/christmas%2B2011.12.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689342866852684962" border="0" /></a><span style="mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;mso-bidi-font-family:Calibri;" >he dinner table is "that's what he/she said” jokes and" ______ her I barely know her" jokes (I think both originated from the Office). Alan and any kids’ present love to engage in these. Unfortunately, Mac was not thinking when in study hall the teacher reprimanded a student for discussing liquor at school and Mac automatically piped up "Lick her I barely know her". Needless to say Mac got the next reprimand and rightly so. No more of those jokes at the dinner table! On a happier note, Mac is a teachers dream. 5 of his 6 teachers (all but his computer teacher) commented on his "enthusiastic learning and participation" in class discussions, a trait unusual in males his age (particularly those with the last name of Weldon). Perhaps the confidence is not all bad. Mac also plays a little tennis and some video games. He will be getting his Drivers License in about a week so you are forewarned. (Mac drives well IF he notices the stop signs and red lights.) Mac is the child most likely to just come up to me and tell me he loves me and give me a hug when he's not angling for something.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Mac is a real outside of the box thinker, mouthy, brilliant, stubborn(are you noticing a trend yet?), confident, intellectually curious, sometimes oblivious, warm, and cheerful person who is not shy about showing his affections and I am delighted to have him as my son. Have a Happy New Year!</span></p>Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-1597945857964493192011-07-29T17:27:00.001-07:002011-07-29T17:27:46.243-07:00Blogger Outreach Newsletter: New Photo and Video Sharing Facebook App<p> </p> <p> <meta charset="utf-8"> <table width="678" border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-top-color: rgb(186, 184, 182); border-right-color: rgb(186, 184, 182); border-bottom-color: rgb(186, 184, 182); border-left-color: rgb(186, 184, 182); background-color: rgb(248, 248, 248); "> <tbody> <tr> <td> <table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="center" valign="middle"><img alt="Technorati Media" width="676" height="86" style="display: block; " src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/11/47285/headder.jpg?t=20110711134403" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="center" valign="top" style="background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 30px; color: rgb(66, 149, 105); background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><img alt="Blogger Outreach updates and Visa memory mapper" width="676" height="96" border="0" style="display: block; " src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/11/47285/main-title.jpg?t=20110711134433" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" valign="top" style="background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 8px; border-bottom-color: rgb(62, 143, 179); background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "> <table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="12" align="left" valign="top"><img width="12" height="161" style="display: block; " alt="" src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/11/47285/top-inner-shadow-left.jpg?t=20110711134932" /></td> <td align="left" valign="top" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(109, 109, 109); padding-top: 15px; padding-right: 7px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 7px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "> <p><strong style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(65, 65, 65); font-weight: bold; ">A new opportunity to share with you from Technorati Media’s Blogger Outreach program.</strong></p> <p>We connect you with worldwide brands for access to everything from movies and music to smartphones and cereal for product reviews, breaking news and content exclusives, including; unique Facebook applications that allow you to express yourself, like the Memory Mapper recently launched from Visa.</p> </td> <td width="12" align="right" valign="top"><img width="12" height="161" style="display: block; " alt="" src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/11/47285/top-inner-shadow-right.jpg?t=20110711135012" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> <table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="12"> </td> <td width="652"> </td> <td width="12"> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> </td> <td align="center" valign="top"> <table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td height="35" align="left" valign="middle" bgcolor="#3e8fb3" style="padding-left: 10px; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Tahoma; font-size: 21px; color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Share Your Travel Adventures with Visa Memory Mapper</td> </tr> <tr> <td><img width="13" height="13" alt="" src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/11/47285/spacer-13.gif?t=20110711134555" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="center" valign="top"> <table width="652" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img width="652" height="10" style="display: block; " alt="" src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/11/47285/box-top.jpg?t=20110711134303" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="center" valign="top" style="width: 630px; "> <table width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 652px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(200, 200, 200); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(200, 200, 200); "> <tbody> <tr> <td height="10" colspan="3"> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="20"> </td> <td align="left" valign="top"> <table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td width="245" align="center" valign="top"> <table style="width: 100%;"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://clk.atdmt.com/187/go/344932069/direct/01/"><img border="0" alt="Visa memory mapper" vspace="5" style="vertical-align: middle;" src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/29/48501/VisaLogo.jpg?t=20110729133133" /></a> <a target="_blank" href="http://clk.atdmt.com/187/go/344932069/direct/01/"><img border="0" alt="Visa memory mapper" height="75" style="vertical-align: middle;" src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/29/48501/Memory-Mapper-Logo.jpg?t=20110729133153" /></a></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" valign="top" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(109, 109, 109); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; padding-top: 10px; "> <meta charset="utf-8"> <h1 style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); line-height: 18px; font-weight: bold; ">Have you recently taken a trip with special meaning to you? Did you make some lasting memories along the way? Encounter any surprises or happy accidents?</h1> <h2 style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(109, 109, 109); margin-top: 10px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; ">Visa invites bloggers to recreate their travel adventures with a new Facebook application – <a target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; " href="http://clk.atdmt.com/187/go/344932069/direct/01/">Memory Mapper</a>. The Memory Mapper is an easy and unique way to share your personal travel stories and meaningful, exciting moments with a virtual keepsake that utilizes Google Maps satellite technology. </h2> <meta charset="utf-8"> <h2 style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(109, 109, 109); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; "><br /> Use the options the Memory Mapper provides – upload photos and videos from your trip, add captions, a soundtrack and geotag where these memories were created – to retell your special story and share it with the world (blog, Facebook, Twitter, or e-mail). </h2> <a target="_blank" href="http://clk.atdmt.com/187/go/344932069/direct/01/"><img alt="Visa memory mapper" border="0" style="display: block; margin: 20px auto; border: 0;" src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/27/48401/memory-mapper.png?t=20110727141239" /></a> <h2 style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(109, 109, 109); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; "><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><strong>Create a Memory Mapper for the Chance to Win a $100 Visa Gift Card</strong></span><br /> Check out examples on <a target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; " href="http://clk.atdmt.com/187/go/344932069/direct/01/">Visa’s Facebook page</a>, especially Adam Richman's Memory Mapper.<br /> <br /> Every day through the end of August, five lucky people will win a $100 Visa Gift Card. Each day you create a <a target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; " href="http://clk.atdmt.com/187/go/344932069/direct/01/">Memory Mapper</a> you will be automatically entered for a chance to win! See official rules* at <a target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; " href="http://clk.atdmt.com/187/go/344932069/direct/01/">facebook.com/visa.</a><br /> </h2> If you would be interested in blogging about Visa’s Memory Mapper and the <em>Memory Mapper Sweepstakes</em>, review this <a target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; " href="http://corporate.visa.com/media-center/press-releases/press1127.jsp">press release.</a> </meta> </meta> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> <td width="15"> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td><img width="652" height="10" style="display: block; " alt="" src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/11/47287/box-bottom.jpg?t=20110711140041" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td><img width="13" height="13" alt="" src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/11/47285/spacer-13.gif?t=20110711134555" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="center" valign="top"> <table width="652" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img width="652" height="10" style="display: block; " alt="" src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/11/47285/box-top.jpg?t=20110711134303" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="center" valign="top" style="width: 630px; "> <table width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 652px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(200, 200, 200); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(200, 200, 200); "> <tbody> <tr> <td width="20"> </td> <td align="left" valign="top"> <h1 style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Tahoma; font-size: 21px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); font-weight: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 7px; ">Participate in the State of the Blogosphere Survey</h1> <h2 style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(109, 109, 109); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; padding-top: 10px; ">Each year, we take an in-depth look at different segments of the blogosphere.<br /> <br /> The 2011 report will launch in early November. Look for your invitation to participate in the survey in late August. <a target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; " href="http://technorati.com/blogging/article/state-of-the-blogosphere-2010-introduction">Last year,</a> we had a record number of blogger participants. Thanks again to all of you who responded. <br /> <br /> If you're interested in being interviewed for the survey, contact us at <a style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; " href="mailto:press@technorati.com">press@technorati.com.</a></h2> </td> <td width="15"> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td><img width="652" height="10" style="display: block; " alt="" src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/11/47287/box-bottom.jpg?t=20110711140041" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td><img width="13" height="13" alt="" src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/11/47285/spacer-13.gif?t=20110711134555" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="center" valign="top"> <table width="652" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img width="652" height="10" style="display: block; " alt="" src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/11/47285/box-top.jpg?t=20110711134303" /></td> </tr> <tr> <td align="center" valign="top" style="width: 630px; "> <table width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 652px; border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(200, 200, 200); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(200, 200, 200); "> <tbody> <tr> <td width="20"> </td> <td align="left" valign="top"> <h1 style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Tahoma; font-size: 21px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); font-weight: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 7px; ">Technorati Media Blogger Outreach Opportunities</h1> <h2 style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(109, 109, 109); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; padding-top: 10px; ">Bloggers, what can we say… You are in demand! We’re interested in working with you based on what you are already doing – sharing your passion, knowledge and opinions about anything and everything. <br /> <br /> Whether it’s blogging opportunities for <a target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.sb-knight.com/2011/05/once-upon-time-there-were-3-angels.html">breaking announcements</a> or sponsored posts for <a target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.doughmesstic.net/2011/06/21/cake-is-not-health-food-in-case-you-were-wondering/">product reviews</a> or <a target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.boomtron.com/2011/06/small-scale-huge-impact-with-toyotas-100-cars-for-good">topics</a> you care about. <br /> <br /> Technorati <a target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; " href="http://technoratimedia.com/socialrichmedia/social-rich-media/abc">Conversational Ads</a> with blogger feeds also feature in these campaigns and receive millions of impressions–that’s a lot of potential new readers and followers. <br /> <br /> Keep an eye out for Blogger Outreach opportunities coming to your inbox soon.</h2> </td> <td width="15"> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td><img width="652" height="10" style="display: block; " alt="" src="http://scm-l3.technorati.com/11/07/11/47287/box-bottom.jpg?t=20110711140041" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="center" valign="top"> <table width="600" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" valign="top"> <h2 style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(109, 109, 109); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; "><strong>*OFFICIAL RULES</strong> <p><strong>No Purchase Necessary to Enter or Win the Visa 2011 Memory Mapper Sweepstakes. Limit one (1) entry per person and per Facebook account per day.</strong> The Visa Memory Mapper Sweepstakes begins at 12:00:01 AM Pacific Time (PT) on 7/18/11 and ends 11:59:59 PM PT on 8/31/11 (the "Promotional Period"). Five (5) prizes will be awarded each day in a daily drawing from among all elligible entries received each day during the Promotional Period. Open to legal residents of the fifty (50) U.S. and the DC, 18 years and older. Void in Puerto Rico and where prohibited. For Official Rules, go to <a target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none;" href="http://www.visa-memorykeeper.com/?a=sweepsrules">http://www.visa-memorykeeper.com/?a=sweepsrules</a>.</p> </h2> <p> </p> <h2 style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(109, 109, 109); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; ">You have received this message because you have claimed your blog with Technorati Media. If you do not want to receive any more Blogger Outreach opportunities from Technorati Media, please visit<br /> <a target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(62, 143, 179); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; " href="http://blogcritics.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=5d95fa32c95c53e0c2a5ebb1fb6f5520">http://blogcritics.org/lists/?p=unsubscribe&uid=5d95fa32c95c53e0c2a5ebb1fb6f5520</a> to unsubscribe.</h2> <p> </p> <p> <meta charset="utf-8"> </meta> </p> <h2 style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(109, 109, 109); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; ">Technorati Media<br /> 360 Post St., Suite 1100<br /> San Francisco, CA 94108</h2> </td> </tr> <tr> <td> </td> </tr> <tr> <td align="left" valign="top"> <table width="400" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> 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Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-63180167854304383012011-07-06T19:21:00.000-07:002011-07-06T19:37:34.058-07:00Disaster preparedness for horse owners<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ij4plCfb2E/ThUbzQItPlI/AAAAAAAAAyU/WoD6YavKDxU/s1600/named-hurricane-fran.gif"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5ij4plCfb2E/ThUbzQItPlI/AAAAAAAAAyU/WoD6YavKDxU/s400/named-hurricane-fran.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626433876788067922" border="0" /></a><br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> 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unhidewhenused="false" qformat="true" name="Book Title"> <w:lsdexception locked="false" priority="37" name="Bibliography"> <w:lsdexception locked="false" priority="39" qformat="true" name="TOC Heading"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style="line-height: 115%;font-family:";font-size:22pt;" >Disaster preparation for Horse owners</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >As Hurricane season is upon us here in Florida it is past time to seriously address the task of preparation. Efforts taken today can save a great deal of anxiety and heartache in the future. Unfortunately, many of us are procrastinators by nature and wait until the news reports of the approaching storm prod us into some form of action. Every year when this happens you find yourself frantically wandering the isles of your local store searching empty shelves for bottled water and batteries with several hundred of your closest friends and neighbors. This doesn’t need to happen. With just a little time and effort now you will find yourself much more prepared and not just another aimless zombie in the golden hoard. Even if you are like me and lack the “organizational gene” you will find that following some simple guidelines can help get you ready for the eventual day when, as they say…. the manure hits the oscillating rotator. By breaking things down into simple check lists you can start getting the things you need and the things you need to get done checked off. You probably have many of these items and just need to get them together and inventoried.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Here are the disaster preparedness check lists we have for our clients. Some things may apply to your area and others will not and need to be adjusted to your geographical threats. The basics are the same regardless if the threat is a hurricane, wildfire, earthquake or electrical grid failure. I have broken these down into 1. Horses, 2. Farm, 3. Home, and tried to cover the important items and tasks you will need to do. In the need to evacuate many of these things will need to be organized into appropriate “go bags” so duplication of documents and some supplies may be needed.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >HORSES:</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Vaccinations- All horses should be vaccinated with <span style="color: rgb(247, 150, 70);">Tetanus toxoid</span> yearly. Mosquitoes increase significantly after the hurricane and transmit the Encephalitis viruses; therefore vaccination with <span style="color: rgb(247, 150, 70);">Eastern&Western Encephalitis</span> as well as <span style="color: rgb(247, 150, 70);">West Nile Virus</span> should be boostered prior to storm season. <span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Coggins test- Make sure you have a current negative Coggins test and that it doesn’t expire during hurricane season. These are required for interstate transport so have several certified copies for (truck, trailer and important papers folder)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Health Certificate- these are required for transport as well. You can obtain a six month event permit which will allow movement into adjoining states. (Have extra certified copies)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Identification- Make sure your horse has a microchip ID and register the number. Name tags on the halter “may” stay on but usually don’t and won’t help if your horse is stolen or “adopted” after the storm. <span style=""> </span>Identification of horses that have died is extremely difficult after days in storm conditions as they all look the same. Evidence from work done in Louisiana and Mississippi after Hurricane Katrina showed that Microchip ID allowed positive identification in >90% of cases. During Hurricane Andrew in Florida it was almost the exact opposite since microchip ID wasn’t required in Florida and was not readily available then. Most of the dead horses were never identified.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Evacuation- Decide early if you are going to evacuate and have a destination prearranged. Contact family members or camp grounds that allow horses. Map out your evacuation route and all alternate roads to get there. Have several maps in each vehicle. Leave at least 48 hours before the storm gets close as roads and bridges will be clogged with traffic and higher winds as the storm approaches may close some bridges to trailer traffic leaving you stranded.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Important documents- keep copies of health records, Coggins test, health certificate, ID numbers and photos in a Ziploc bag. Also, store copies on a portable flash drive to be printed later if needed.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >If you are not evacuating then it probably safer to turn your horses out in a large open pasture that has VERY few trees, if any. Most injuries occur from collapsed barns and flying debris. Just think about the fact that your barn was probably built to take advantage of the prevailing breeze to keep it cool and most likely done by the lowest bidder. That’s a bad combo with a CAT 3-4 Hurricane. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >FARM: <span style=""> </span>(</span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Walk your property, visual inspection.)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Check and repair all fences. Remove any barbed wire.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Clear trees and dead limbs (clear all red maple, it only takes a few wilted leaves to induce renal failure in the horse….and they will eat them).</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Remove all debris. This becomes flying projectiles</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Store all jumps, tables and chairs in a barn stall</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Get “tie-downs” for trailers, park them in a large open paddock away from trees and power lines. Park trucks there as well. Make sure they are fully fueled.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Store feed- 7 day supply stored in water proof containers ( 1lb /100lbs body weight x 7 days per horse)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Store hay in barn under waterproof tarp and off the ground on pallets</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Water supply- 15-20 gal/horse/day. You can fill up troughs, boats, swimming pools ect.<span style=""> </span>Bleach can be used to purify contaminated water ( 8 drops /gal) but horses may not drink it if treated. <span style=""> </span>A hand “pitcher pump” for your well is also valuable with power outages. Dehydration and renal failure is a common source of death in horses after hurricanes.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Generator- 4hp (4000-5000 watts) with gas to last 7 days. This can be done with 4x5 gallon cans using the generator intermittently. Tri fuel options on generators are a great addition.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Extension cords- 4 long 100ft </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Tools-</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-Hammers and nails( you need a large and varied supply)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >- fencing materials-field fence, posts and staples</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-chainsaw, spare chain, gas and 2 cycle oil</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-ropes and tow cable</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >- Ladder</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-wire cutters and long handle pry bar (can still get to supplies if barn collapses)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >- roll of black plastic sheeting and staple gun to cover broken windows and roof leaks</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >- flood light-work light with car adapter (1 million candle power), head lamps for hands free <span style=""> </span>work</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-waders or snake boots</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Extra halters and ropes- stored in sealed plastic bins</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Medical supplies- </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-Bandage material(sheet cotton,gauze,telfa pads,vet wrap,duct tape</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-wound medication (betadine scrub,Nolvasan ointment,triple antibiotic ointment)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-anti-inflammatory meds (Banamine,Phenylbutazone)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-Sedatives (acepromazine, Xylazine)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-Antibiotics (Trimethoprim sulfa tablets, Procaine penicillin)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-insect repellant</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-syringes and needles</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-scissors and knife</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-clean towels</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >Ask your veterinarian for help and dosages on medications that you need, we are there to help and educate.<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >HOME:</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-water supply, 1 gal/person/day. A “water bob” ($20) can be placed in the bathtub and once filled up <span style=""> </span>holds 100 gallons of water and comes with its own hand pump.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-Food storage, plan on at least 2-3 weeks supply. It could be longer depending upon the level of disruption. The objective is to maintain independence and not be dependent upon rescue or food supplied at refugee centers. Trust me; historically it never works out well for the refugees. Most canned foods are good for at least 2 years. Canned dried storage foods can be good for up to 30 years as are freeze dried foods. These can be set aside in a closet or under a bed in a guest room for a time when needed. Choose foods that you like and fit into your regular diet. You should plan for several meals a day as you do now and shop accordingly. Many online sites and the LDS church provide sources for long term storage food.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-Generator, some form of electricity will greatly help when the lights go out. This will allow you to maintain refrigeration, cooking, lights and connection with the outside world. Gas to keep it running. Be aware of exhaust and fire dangers and keep it well ventilated.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-Solar lights, these outdoor LED lights can be brought indoors at night and provide light for about 6 hours. They are bright enough to use for reading and are much safer than candles and lamps. Once charged the batteries can be disconnected until needed.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-Gas grill, for cooking and boiling water. Keep at least one extra bottle of propane on hand as the grill will get a lot of use.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-Medical supplies, bandage materials, antibiotic ointment, anti diarrheal meds, anti inflammatory meds(advil,Tylenol) , any prescription medications you are currently on. Injuries such as burns and cuts associated with farm accidents should be your focus.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-A small cheap window unit air conditioner, keep stored in the box in a closet. This will provide an unbelievable relief in the hot humid post hurricane power outage (this is why you need a generator). We kept this in our bedroom and slept like a baby with our kids and all our nieces and nephews sleeping on the floor because we had A/C. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-Cash, with power disruptions the banks and ATMs will be non-functional. Having cash on hand will enable you to at least be more flexible.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >-Firearms, while it may seem unnecessary to some, you may want to rethink this position. Police protection, phone service and street lights will all be disrupted leaving those in our society that thrive on those conditions to be emboldened. The sound of a generator and lights can send them a signal that you have “stuff”. While much has been written on which guns are best, I tend to think that the best gun is the one you have and are comfortable using. The simplicity of a shotgun with appropriate sized shot is a nice deterrent.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >I’m sure this could be expanded many fold but keeping it simple is a great way for many to get started. Going over the list every year and adding to it to fit your needs is another way to keep the process of preparation moving forward. Remember to keep some extra supplies for charity as many of your neighbors may not be as well prepared or could be more severely affected by storm damage. Be prepared to help them.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:12pt;" >The storm is coming; it’s time to get ready.</span></p>Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17081314.post-34316542841800199472011-06-02T19:50:00.000-07:002011-06-02T19:55:24.867-07:00Yet another "super bug"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sUtdAfsUJps/TehND2aD0LI/AAAAAAAAAyI/-wjHWO8M4GU/s1600/ALeqM5ix1ZYXOjBUDpGxeMtd0ztCVSVMJg.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 236px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sUtdAfsUJps/TehND2aD0LI/AAAAAAAAAyI/-wjHWO8M4GU/s400/ALeqM5ix1ZYXOjBUDpGxeMtd0ztCVSVMJg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613821664057086130" border="0" /></a><br />E. Coli can be a particularly nasty bug if you ingest one of the drug resistant strains. The antibiotic resistance is shared from organism to organism by viruses called bacteriophages that carry the gene for resistance from one bug to the next. Now there is a new stain moving through Europe in infected vegetables that has people worried.<br /><a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20110602/ap_on_he_me/eu_contaminated_vegetables_europe">here's the link</a>Dr. Alan Weldonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02043104329444573626noreply@blogger.com0