Problem: Article: Toy poodles have a tendency to have very hairy canals. The hair on their body extends down into the ear canal and can plug it - a bit like wearing furry ear plugs all the time. Check with your vet to determine an appropriate schedule for plucking hair. Some experts' opinions vary about whether or not to pluck this hair. The argument for hair plucking is that is allows better air circulation and thus reduces the chances of ear infections, and that it removes hair that can trap earwax. Some argue, however, that hair plucking can leave your dog's ears sore and inflamed. Keep a close eye on your dog's ears, especially if you do not pluck the hair. Be vigilant for ear infections (characterized by a bad smell, thick black wax, or discharge from the ear), or a foreign object in the ear (constantly scratching the ear, or holding the head to one side). If you notice signs that your dog has a problem with his ear, ask your vet to check for a health problem. They may advise you whether to pluck the ear hair more or less often.
Summary: Consider plucking out your dog's ear hair. Monitor the ears for problems. Visit your vet if you see a problem.

Problem: Article: Social media pages can help you drum up support for your project or organization. You also can advertise the donations of businesses who have pledged their support. Seek connections with local businesses that your research indicates are in tune with the goals for your project or your organization at large. Ask individual connections to point you to other businesses or organizations that might be interested in your ongoing projects. Showing up at community events and making your presence known with local business organizations is a way to get your project or organization noticed without doing a lot of extra work. Focus on community events or business networking functions that have something to do with your project or organization. For example, if you're raising money to build an animal shelter, you might go to community dog shows or talk to local pet stores and dog groomers. Don't hassle people for donations at an event they'll feel as though you are putting them on the spot, and you'll leave a bad impression. Instead, simply tell them about your project or organization and offer to send them more information if they're interested. People often love when they're treated like an expert and asked for advice. If your project or organization needs any assistance, or if you have a problem you can't figure out, asking a business leader is also a good way to drum up support. For example, suppose you've asked a local real estate agent for advice on finding a suitable building for an animal shelter you want to build. The real estate agent points you to a few great locations. Let them know you still need donations. Since the agent has helped, they may now feel they have a vested interest in seeing your project succeed. Even if you were only soliciting a donation for a single, short-term project, keep in touch with the business owner or representative. This communicates that their donation is appreciated. Send out an email newsletter updating everyone who donated on the progress of your project, or the status of your organization. Talk about your accomplishments and how the donations are being used. You also can send birthday or holiday cards to your donors to express appreciation. Treat your donors both individuals and businesses as though they are part of the family. Patronize the business and encourage others to do the same. Tell people to let the business owner know that you sent them.
Summary: Establish a social media presence. Create networking opportunities. Seek out advice. Maintain a continuing relationship.

Problem: Article: Relaxation techniques, including practices such as yoga and tai chi, help ease tension in your life and lower your anxiety levels. Even a few minutes of slow, deep breathing can help you manage stress more productively. To practice deep breathing, move to a quiet spot without distractions and sit or lay down in a comfortable position. Turn your mental focus to your breath. Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose, expanding your chest. Pause when your lungs are full, then exhale slowly, lowering your chest. Pause when your lungs are empty, then repeat the cycle. Do this for at least a couple of minutes. Expect a little trial and error before you find the technique that works best for you. If you're trying a relaxation technique that you find difficult or that feels like work, it may cause you more stress. If you have high levels of anxiety, you might also consider going to a therapist to talk about what makes you anxious. Your therapist will recommend good coping strategies for you. Not getting enough sleep may cause you to have a headache the next day. Likewise, if you get too much sleep, you may also end up with a headache. Set a regular bedtime and waking time that allow you to get at least 8 hours of sleep. A regular sleep pattern can also help if you suffer from insomnia. Avoid electronics and screens, including TV, before bed or while in bed. Sleep in a cool, dark room. Ideally, the temperature in your bedroom should be between 60 and 67F (16 and 19C). If you sleep during daylight hours, use blackout curtains to keep the room dark. Regular exercise can reduce both the frequency and the severity of chronic headaches, including migraines. Design an exercise plan that includes cardio as well as activities that build strength and flexibility. Even just a brisk walk can be sufficient exercise to help prevent headaches. Include activities that you enjoy so you'll stay motivated to exercise. For example, if you like the water, you might go swimming 3 or 4 times a week. Talk to your doctor before you start any new exercise regimen, especially if you have any chronic health conditions. Smoking and drinking excessively can lead to debilitating cluster headaches. Secondhand smoke and other forms of nicotine, including gum or tablets, can also lead to headaches and sinus irritation. If you have a history of migraine or cluster headaches, avoid drinking or smoking entirely. Talk to your doctor if you have a dependency on either of these substances. They can help you develop a plan to quit. Inflammatory foods can trigger headaches as well as other health issues, including digestive problems. If you have sinus problems, inflammatory foods can make those problems worse by increasing tissue inflammation. The following foods are inflammatory: Refined carbohydrates, such as white bread and pasta Fried foods Sugary beverages, including sodas and energy drinks Read meat, such as veal, ham, or beef Processed meats, such as hot dogs or sausages Margarine, shortening, and lard If you get headaches regularly, a headache diary can help you discover commonalities between your headaches and figure out what might be causing them. Write down the date and time of your headache and everything you did for an hour or two before your headache started, including any food that you ate.You might also write down anything you did to treat your headache and whether the treatment was effective. When the pain subsides, add the approximate time your headache stopped so you have an idea of the duration.
Summary: Practice relaxation techniques to lower your stress levels. Go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day. Exercise for at least 30 minutes each day. Limit alcohol and tobacco intake. Avoid foods that cause inflammation. Keep a headache diary to identify possible triggers.

Problem: Article: Bombay cats are fairly talkative, and they will hold conversations with you. They aren't loud, per se, they just like to talk often. They have a distinctive meow, so you will know when your cat wants your attention. However, not every Bombay cat will show this characteristic. Bombays are pretty smart cats, so watch to see if the cat is able to figure things out. For instance, this might be the cat that will figure out how to open your bedroom door or get the treats that you've hidden on a high shelf. These cats love to be engaged in games of fetch, puzzle games, and other types of fun cat toys. Of course, all cats are naturally curious and inquisitive. However, Bombays are even more so. They will always want to be in the middle of the action, so they can see what's going on. These cats are fairly laid back when it comes to social situations. They do well around families and pets, though they may want to be the dominant pet in the household, particularly if there are other cats. They also enjoy curling up on your lap for some snuggle time.
Summary:
Pay attention to a noisy cat. Be on the lookout for smarts. Notice an inquisitive nature. Check for an easy-going and sociable cat.