Monday, February 29, 2016

This Dog Has The Most Adorable Brace Face You'll Ever See

This adorable pup's metal mouth smile will take you back to high school. 


The Harborfront Hospital for Animals in Spring Lake, Michigan, shared a photo on its Facebook page last week of Wesley the dog with a mouthful of braces. Veterinarian James Moore, who's been a "doggie dentist" for more than a decade, gave the pooch braces to help Wesley close his mouth effectively. 





Unsurprisingly, the photo has taken the Internet by storm, with animal lovers and former braces-wearers alike completely charmed by Wesley's smile. 


Moore told The Huffington Post that Wesley, who actually belongs to Moore's daughter, Molly, has a "rostral cross-bite" which prevents him from closing his mouth correctly. The pooch has to wear his braces for four-six weeks before he'll be able to flash his pearly whites. 





While the adorable photo has shocked many with its cuteness, Moore told HuffPost that the procedure is actually fairly common in his field. However, dogs aren't given braces just so they can have a nice smile. 


"We place orthodontic appliances in dog’s mouths to alleviate pain and dysfunction," he said. "We do not perform orthodontia for aesthetic purposes."


While human braces can sometimes feel extremely annoying, Wesley seems to be taking his metal mouth pretty well. 


"Wesley does not seem to bothered in the slightest," the doctor said. "We make every effort to control discomfort in our patients."


There are some similarities between human and dog orthodontics, though. The doctor said that the equipment used on pups like Wesley is the same as the equipment used in human orthodontics.


While he's pleasantly surprised at the attention Wesley's photo has received, he told HuffPost that the photo comes with an important lesson. 


"I think that Wesley is an adorable dog and I feel that it is important that we educate people to the importance of maintaining their pets’ oral health."


And Wesley? Well he's just soaking up his newfound fame. 


"He is happily enjoying some of the benefits of his celebrity (although he already had ample hugs, kisses and belly rubs)," a post reads on the hospital's Facebook page. 

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BHM: Five Black Design Professionals That Achieved Mainstream Success

As Black History Month nears its end it is always great to reflect on the positive individuals who impacted the world through their cause or craft. Recognition to these inspiring individuals is due to their sheer determination to accomplish their dreams all while breaking down the color lines. In honor of Black History Month here are five black design professionals who have achieved mainstream success: past and present.

Architect: Paul Williams

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In the 1920s, while segregation influenced the livelihood of many Americans, Paul Williams chose to decimate the stereotype of black achievement by focusing and maintaining his dedication to his architectural studies. He obtained his license in architecture, won an architectural competition in Los Angeles and became an exceptional architect and draftsman. His experience and perseverance led him to extend his talents and vision alongside Pereria & Luckman Architects to create the iconic Theme Building located at the Los Angeles International Airport. In the span of fifty years Paul Williams designed thousands of buildings: most notable were the redesign of the Beverly Hills Hotel and the now landmarked Golden State Mutual Life Insurance Building. His work was well regarded with the Hollywood elite; designing for stars like Frank Sinatra,  Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz. His passion for architecture was unwavering and his determination led him to become one of the first African American architects paving the way for many.
More information: http://www.paulrwilliamsproject.org/

Interior Designer: Cecil Hayes

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Cecil Hayes' journey to success started in South Florida where her creativity in fine arts expanded into the very competitive and predominantly white profession of interior design. In 1975, Cecil's Designer's Unlimited opened providing interior design services and later expanded her services to become one of the first African Americans to manufacture custom case goods and upholstery in the United States. Her style is attributed to her fine arts background; incorporating lavish textures and her keen knowledge for harmony and balance. For over 30 years, Cecil has designed for entertainment and sports practitioners giving her the opportunity to be recognized and featured in notable magazines like Architectural Digest and Ebony. Her accolades include her induction to the NAACP Hall of Fame and the  Smithsonian's Cooper Hewitt National Design Museum. She has published two books and is regarded as a celebrated African American interior designer.
For More information: http://cecilhayes.com/


Event Designer: Preston Bailey

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Here is a person who can transform anything into a magical experience: Preston Bailey. Based in New York City he is an international sensation for his work in event design. Over the span of 36 years, Bailey has acquired high end clients with exquisite taste, extensive budgets and the need to elevate dreams into real life time memories. While he has the ability to undertake any client style and demand, he always incorporates elaborate floral designs into his work (a byproduct of his childhood Panamanian upbringing). In addition to designing events, he has written seven books, of which five have been best sellers. Preston Bailey has tailored himself to a high-end clientele and while his works speak volumes, he never forgets to share his secrets to all who are interested.
For more information: http://www.prestonbailey.com/

Architect/ Furniture Designer/ Textile Designer: David Adjaye

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Color barriers need not apply to David Adjaye as he is one of the leading architects of our time. As an OBE (Officer of the British Empire), this Tanzanian born talent has been recognized for his outstanding achievements in architecture. Noted works include the Noble Peace Center in Oslo, the Rivington Place in London and the highly anticipated Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington DC. Adjaye's credits expand beyond architecture and into furniture and textile design. His travels and experience in architecture influence the outcome of his products, as seen in the Washington Collection and Adjaye Collection for Knoll. The entirety of Adjaye's empire is awe inspiring. He directs several offices worldwide, has shared his wisdom at major universities, and continues to prove that there is no limit to his success.
For more information: http://www.adjaye.com/


Artist/Textile Designer : Christine Joy Llewellyn

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She is a talent that has emerged onto the print and textile world recently, providing bright colors and rhythmic qualities that speak to everyone's heart. A native to New York, Christine Joy Llewellyn established her own company Christine Joy Designs, in 2014. She captures the essence of a "breathtaking turquoise ocean and lush green vegetation of the Caribbean," a quality that appealed to Minted and West Elm. Enchanted, Shift and Aquatic Line are just three of the eight prints that showcase her style and can be seen at West Elm. As a textile designer she uses a playful and minimalistic approach to design that translates effortlessly into wall paper and upholstery. One King's Lane, Guildery and many more have taken notice of Llewellyn's products and all have provided a platform for her to showcase her work. In a short period of time Llewellyn has proven her talent is a perfect fit for any home, office or place of business.
For more information: http://www.christinejoydesign.com

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Five Tips To Design A Timeless Kitchen

Remodeling your kitchen can be a major investment and, like any investment, you want to make sure it offers a return. A great kitchen remodel can, and should, feel current ten or even twenty years down the line, allowing you to reap the benefits of the original outlay.

The most important advice I can offer is, if you want your kitchen to look current in a decade, stay away from trends. Rather design a kitchen that suits your lifestyle.
Here are five tips to help you make design decisions to ensure your kitchen is timeless:

1) Classic Cabinetry Finishes

There are a number of cabinet finishes that are classics, such as white, light grey or neutral-colored cabinets which are beautiful and timeless. So are traditional woods like white oak, walnut and mahogany that have been used forever and complement almost any type of architecture. A third classic cabinetry finish that works in most homes is metal, especially stainless steel.

2) Timeless Materials and Hardware

Materials like marble and wood flooring transcend time as they have been used in kitchens for hundreds or even thousands of years. Marble countertops and finishes that are maintained correctly get better with time. While white subway tiles are always in style, I often use them in new finishes like marble or stone, not just porcelain.

If you incorporate traditional hardware like latching catches and olive knuckle hinges into your kitchen, it will still feel fresh years from now.

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An architectural entrance never goes out of style.

3) Strong Architectural Elements

Strong architectural elements in the kitchen never go out of style. Think of including ceiling details like beams, planking, or crown molding into the space. Sculptural arches and large entries into the kitchen add a timeless quality, as do gracious breakfast rooms, walls of windows and high ceilings.

4) Signature Light Fixtures

It's important to incorporate signature or classic lighting fixtures into a timeless kitchen. Think about featuring lovely pendants over the island, a great chandelier over the breakfast table, and sconces on the walls. These are worth the outlay and will not date your kitchen 10 years from now.

5) Architectural Metals

I almost always include architectural metals into a design as they make a strong statement and are usually in a neutral tone that works well in most kitchens. Think of a gracious metal hood, a signature hanging pot rack, or beautiful, open metal shelves, which can be restyled as the years go by.

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A stunning hood in a classic metal finish

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Video Of Vet Technician Comforting Rescue Pit Bull After Surgery Goes Viral




Sometimes, you just need some hugs and kisses to make it all better.  


A video shared on the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter's Facebook page last week features surgical assistant Dennis Moses lovingly cradling a rescue pit bull after the pup was spayed.


According to the clip's description, the pup whose name is Maddie was feeling a bit disoriented as the anesthesia wore off, so Moses took it upon himself to comfort her. 


Watch as the caring technician rocks a sleepy Maddie back and forth while kissing her. 


Bailey Deacon, BARCS director of communications, told The Huffington Post that Maddie, who'd been surrendered by her previous owners, met her new humans, Andrew Isbell and his family, earlier this month. However, the pup couldn't go home until she was at a specific weight and age, had completed her full vaccinations and got spayed.


The pooch underwent the spay procedure last Wednesday. 


Deacon said that contrary to what many may think, the dog was crying while coming off of anesthesia because she was confused -- not because she was in pain. When Moses saw that the pooch was crying, he took her out into the hall to try and make her feel better. 


Though this particular video ended up going viral, Deacon told HuffPost that Moses' gesture isn't rare and a volunteer just happened to catch this instance on camera. Moses regularly tries to make the animals feel at home. 


"It's just another one of the normal moments here," she said. "He actually sings to them too."



As for Maddie, she's been settling in nicely with her new family and even has quite a bit of snuggle time -- especially with her 11-month-old "sister" Jordan. 


"Bedtime is now officially a 'puppy pile,'" the shelter wrote on its Facebook post. 


To learn more about BARCS, check out their Facebook page here. 

-- This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.











Oscars Gift Bag Includes A $900 Toilet Paper And Dispenser

Celebrities are privy to the finer things in life. As such, at this year's 2016 Oscars ceremony, attendees were gifted the Rolls Royce of toilet paper: A two month's supply of Joseph's Toiletries toilet paper and products. The whole package is called "The Welcomer."


What a welcome to the good life.


This booty tissue is no ordinary 2-ply, and since it retails for $275, it better not be. The Swiss company sells single-sheet tissues which were created by dermatologists "for optimal health and hygiene," according to its website. This "new generation of toilet paper" is eco-friendly and fully flushable. It's made with 100% tender virgin new-growth cellulose fibers and has a quilted surface with alleged "profound softness." 


The kit comes with sets of two different types of bottled treatments meant to be used together: Joseph's Gentle Cleansing "restores the skin’s microbiological balance, neutralizing bad bacteria and odors," while the Gentle Care moisturizer leaves a "velvety feel."


Do most famous people have butts that feel like velvet? Us plebeians may never know. 


 



In addition to all of this, Oscars gift bag recipients were also provided with the option to have Joseph's exclusive tissue dispenser mounted to their bathroom walls, Sabrina Risch, CEO of Joseph's Toiletries, told The Huffington Post. Because this toilet paper is no ordinary paper, a standard roll holder from Bed, Bath & Beyond would never do. 


The Joséphier, which retails for an unmistakable $550, appropriately stores the individual tissues and the bottled treatment in one trophy-like device. The hand-wrapped leather wall mount comes in five different styles, to perfectly match the elegance of the owner's bathroom. Naturally, the item can be monogrammed upon request. 



If you're wondering who on earth would purchase such extravagant tushy cleansers, the answer is Gwyneth Paltrow. Paltrow listed the product on a round up of Christmas gifts she considers "ridiculous but awesome" on her lifestyle blog Goop last December. She said Joseph's is the "gold standard of toilet paper for the friend who truly has it all." Indeed.


Joseph Toiletries can be purchased online.


In total, each Academy Awards gift bag retailed for $200,000 -- a pretty pretty consolation prize for those who got snubbed. A $55,000 trip to Israel and "Vampire Breast Lift" were also included in the goody bags. Must be nice.

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15 Dogs Explain Their Biggest Messes

If dogs could talk -- which, let’s face it, would be awesome -- we think they’d have some explaining to do. After all, most dogs make some pretty major messes from time to time. What do you think they would have to say for themselves? We partnered with Clorox and searched out some epic messes. Here’s what happened when we questioned the dogs behind the disasters.

1. Caught In The Act
small dog mess
Image: Sammy Carter

“If you turn off the lights, no one will see it.” -Felix

2. Search And Destroy
dog surrounded by junk
Image: Hana Kim and Pack

“I was trying to declutter. Step one is to assess what you have. I don’t know what step two is.” -Pancakes

3. Dirt Devil
dog knocked over plant
Image: Nicole O'Grady

“I guess I just don’t have a green thumb. Or any thumbs.” -Charlie

4. Cone Head
dog wearing cone
Image: Allan Shifman

“You told me not to bite the bandage. You never said a word about the couch.” -Lainey

5. Oh Hay!
dog surrounded by string
Image: Laura Vitty

“I would have preferred confetti. But -- oh well -- surprise!” -Noah

6. New Boots
dog muddy paws
Image: Diana at Sammie the Samoyed

“What makes you think I played in mud?” -Sammie

7. No Biggie
dog shredded pillow
Image: Laura Vitty

“Relax. Relax. I’ll go get the broom.” -Woolfie

8. Puff Doggie
dog shredded pillow outside
Image: Collin Reese

“Strange weather we’re having.” -Sandy

9. My Rights
puppy dog eyes
Image: Alison Raitt and Pack

“I’d like to speak to an attorney.” -Jasper Lily

10. Sleeping Poochie
dog biting foam
Image: Michelle Boykins

“What happened? I was asleep.” -Holly Berry

11. Hit And Run
dog overturned plant
Image: Sarah McKinnon and Pack

“I tried to get his license plate number.” -Ranger

12. Hairy Trotter
dog ate harry potter
Image: Cayla Edwards and Pack

“If you have the receipt, I think we can still return it.” -Huckleberry Finn

13. Kitchen Vandal
dog made mess in kitchen
Image: Marlyn Jimenez

“You know what? Why don’t we just go out for dinner?” -Richard

14. You Shouldn’t Have
dog ate christmas presents
Image: Cristina Robinson and Pack

“Sure, I saw the name tags. But -- come on -- I can’t read.” -Mr. Big

15. Hide Out
dog in grocery bag
Image: Alice Walter and Pack

You can depend on Clorox cleaning products to tackle messy moments in your home, whether they’ve been made by man or man’s best friend.







Vote for the messiest dog:
















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