Those of Us in Texas, Time for Bluebonnet Pictures!

I live in Texas. For the last couple of years there were not any bluebonnets to speak of. Yes, there were bluebonnets here and there, but ever since my girls were 1 & 2 years old, I have not gotten a great bluebonnet picture.

When my dad was alive, he wanted the bluebonnet pictures every year. Their property produced a ton of the bluebonnets when my first daughter was one...and I blew it. I didn't show up. Then, the great picture. Then....we waited. My dad passed away and we have still been waiting. This year it is GREAT! We went over there and got some great bluebonnet pictures. My son (1 year) was not interested...but we got the shots.

What is the point of this rambling post? Get out there and take your bluebonnet pictures! Who knows when we will have this great of a year for them again. Take advantage. Enjoy some time outside. The flowers are so nice.

What to do When You See a Snake

Although I want to say up front that I can't guarantee that you won't get bit by a snake, I sure have looked up what to do if I come across one! I am scared of snakes! Let me share what I have found.

The majority of snakes are harmless to humans. But why take your chances? If you are unsure, it is best to treat all snakes as though they will harm you.

The best advice that I could find...and I found it from many sources....is to back away slowly or to be still. Most snakes will not attack unless they feel threatened. If you back away slowly and quietly or be very still, you have the best chance of being fine.

If you need a snake removed, call a local snake expert. If you can't find one, call animal control and they should be able to find someone to help you. Do not attack or pick it up.

I can not guarantee you will not be bitten, but I am just sayin....

Snakes are Ready to Come Out of Hibernation!

As the weather warms up it is much nicer to be outside. But not just for us...for the snakes, too. Snakes are getting ready, or may have started, to come out of hibernation. Are you ready? Have you done what it takes to keep them out of your yard?

Some of the preventative tips to keep snakes out are the same as keeping skunks out. These include:

• Keep the grass mowed and control your weeds. Make the snakes uncomfortable! Don't let them move about undetected.
• Get rid of all of your wood piles and rock piles.  Why supply hiding places?  Also, the snakes will look for nooks and places to hide in the shade.  (Yes, they like to sun themselves, too).  
• If you are really having a problem, remove bird feeders and anything like them that may attract small animals and rodents.  Snakes eat these. 
• If money is no object, there are snake fences. 

You can also use products that will repel snakes and keep them out of the area of your yard.  Snake Away is a product you can use.  I am sure there are others.  There are also humane snake traps, though I am not sure these are for me.  They may be for you!

Dr. T's DT364 Snake-A-Way Snake Repelling Granules 4 Pound

Would You Know What To Do With a Skunk Sprayed Dog?

If you live in the country, you need to know what to do with a skunk sprayed dog.  It is very important that you are aware of the first steps to take when your dog or cat get sprayed.  Skunk spray effects on pets can be harmful, even deadly at times.  Although most of the time, it is just a smelly nuisance, the effects can be dangerous.

The very first thing you should do when your dog or cat get sprayed is to check your pet from head to toe for scratches or bites.  If you find one of these, call your vet immediately.

Also, check to see where your dog has been sprayed.  When he has been sprayed in the mouth or eyes, this is what can be dangerous.  Be sure to call your vet and let him know.  Follow his instructions and watch your pet carefully.

For more information about what to do if your dog is sprayed by a skunk and how to REALLY get rid of the smell of skunk Click Here!