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First detected in the United States in 1984 the Tracheal mite has caused the loss of tens of thousands of colonies and millions of dollars. The tracheal mite will infest the tracheal system of the adult honey bee, they prefer adult bees less than four days old. Levels seem to be at the highest during the winter and spring. Once they are on the bee, the mites are attracted to the carbon dioxide exhaled and enter the spiracles located on the thorax, which lead to the tracheal system. They will puncture the wall of the trachea and suck the blood of the bee.  Once in the tracheal system the mites live, breed and la eggs. The adult and the eggs plug the tubes of the trachea, which impairs oxygen intact of the bee. Since they puncture the trachea in order to feed, they will spread secondary diseases and pathogens. The bee dies from the disruption to respiration damage to the trachea, and from the loss of blood. Once over 30 percent of the population are infected with tracheal mites, honey production may be reduced. The likelihood of winter survival decreases with increasing infestation of the mite. Mites are transmitted from bee to bee within a colony by robbing or drifting bees.

Infested bees will be seen leaving the colony and crawling on the grass just outside the hive. They will crawl up the blades of grass or the hive, fall back down and try again. The wings will be disjointed and the bees will be unable to fly. If you are unsure about a tracheal mite infestation, send sample bees in alcohol to your local county extension agent for verification.

One method of preventing tracheal mites is an oil extender patty. It consists of two parts sugar to one part vegetable shortening. Make a small patty about four inches in diameter. Sandwich it between was paper. Cut the wax paper around the edges so the bees have access to the patty. Place the patty on top of the frames in the center within the hive body. The bees will be attracted to the sugar and get oil on their body. The oil makes it difficult for the mites to identify suitable bee hosts. The oil patties will not contaminate the honey supply so they can be used for prolonged periods.

There is one other method for controlling tracheal mite infestations. Menthol can be used and is available in most bee supply stores. The temperature must be above 60?F in order for the menthol to work. The bees breathe the vapor, which dehydrates the mites. Menthol must be removed during a nectar flow so that the honey is not contaminated.

For most pet owners, pets hold a special place in the household. They are much more than merely animals that live with the family; they are actual members the family. So where their well-being is concerned, we should be very aware of what elements in or around the home either are or could become threats to them.

When considering your pets’safety, you should bear in mind that pets have absolutely no notion of danger and care should be taken so as to prevent a fun moment from becoming a nightmare. Though potential dangers could be many, here are some of the most common.

Electrocution

One of the biggest dangers for many pets are electrical cords. They are attracted to them and are often tempted to chew on them. A good solution to this is CritterCord™ ,which is a cord cover that acts as protective tubing and is infused with a citrus scent. It is specifically designed to help protect your pets from the dangers of chewing on electrical cords.

Poisoning

Poisonous household plants like the azalea, dieffenbachia (dumb cane), lilies, mistletoe, and philodendron, among others, are extremely dangerous to pets. Insect control products, such as insecticides should also be carefully considered. Also, human medications can be toxic to animals. Keep medication containers and tubes of ointments and creams away from pets who could chew through them, and be vigilant about finding and disposing of any dropped pills.

Pets can develop allergies, the same way a human being can, so beware of spiders, scorpions, bees, and other insects.

Choking

Toys with removable parts—like squeaky toys or stuffed animals with plastic eyes—can pose a choking hazard to animals. Take the same precautions with pets as you would with a small child. Also, plastic bags must be considered potentially hazardous. Leashes must be removed if the dog is not being walked, since there is always danger of strangulation. Rawhide doggie chews should be offered to a pet only with supervision, as they can pose a choking hazard as well. They may also be contaminated with Salmonella, which can infect pets and humans who come in contact with them.

You should also be equally cautious outside the home.

• Swimming pools must be monitored carefully. An Above-Ground Pool Eye Alarm is great for this. This easy-to-install safety system alerts you with a loud siren if your pet or child accidentally falls into the pool.

• Cars, too. Leaving your pet inside your car is not always a good idea. A HotDog can come in handy here. The Hotdog detects and reacts to deadly temperature changes within your vehicle. Also BreezeGuard™ Screens are a great solution to let your dog enjoy the fresh air keeping safety in mind. They are mobile pet window extensions custom made to your vehicle.

Check out these and other fantastic Pet Gadgets to keep your pet safe and out of harm?s way.

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Alongside a fully functional cage, dog beds are perhaps one of the most vital pieces of dog-owning kit, providing your pooch with a comfortable and safe place to rest. No matter what size, shape, age or breed, every dog needs a place to call their own, a place to retreat to when he/she needs to get away from it all.

Nevertheless, every dog has its own individual requirements when it comes to sleeping arrangements, so take the time to consider your dog’s personality and favourite activities before you commit to buying a new bed. If your dog is the ‘outdoorsy’ type, enjoying frolicking in the mud or working as a gundog, then a waterproof and wipe clean plastic bed could be the most practical option. Whilst this type of bed may seem a little uncomfortable, remember that you can add a washable mattress or thick towel into the bed that can easily be removed and provide that extra bit of comfort for your peace of mind.

From fleece, to suede and cord, soft dog beds come in a variety of materials and are ideal for those that like to pamper their dog. Coming in a range of sizes and colours, soft dog beds can be tailored to fit in with your home furnishings, providing a doggy extension to the home. Smaller donut styles are ideal for smaller dogs, whilst snuggle beds with sides, are perfect for medium to larger sized canine friends.

Innovations in mattress technology have also provided pet stores with the ability to produce memory foam beds for dogs – ideal for older canines with arthritic changes. Fitting perfectly to your dogs shape, these beds can provide a high level of support for dogs suffering with ailments such as sore backs or respiratory issues.

Well we couldn’t end the article without talking about boutique, designer dog beds. If your companion enjoys the luxury in life, then a four poster or princess castle dog bed could be just the ticket. Whilst this type of bed is normally reserved for toy breeds, when purchased sensibly they can provide a fun and stylish place to sleep for a spoilt dog.