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affordablehomeservices · 7 days

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What Are the Easy Ways to Get Reliable Pet Sitting for Dogs in Halethorpe?

Finding the right pet sitter for your dog is important, especially when you need to leave your furry friend in safe hands. If you’re in Halethorpe, Maryland, you’re in luck! The area offers various pet sitting services, but how do you know which one is the most reliable? Here’s a simple guide to help you find trustworthy dog-sitting options quickly and easily.

Ask for Recommendations from Friends and Neighbors

One of the easiest ways to find a reliable pet sitter is to ask for recommendations from people you trust. Your friends, family, or neighbors in Halethorpe may have already used a service they love. Personal experiences and word-of-mouth referrals are often the best indicators of reliability and trustworthiness.

Tips:

Ask about their overall experience, such as the sitter’s punctuality, communication, and care for their pets.

Get contact information directly from people you trust, which can save you the time of vetting random sitters.

Use Pet Sitting Apps and Websites

Several pet-sitting platforms make it simple to connect with qualified, reliable sitters in your area. Affordable home services Offer a wide variety of sitters, each with profiles that include reviews, certifications, and availability. These platforms usually vet sitters, so you can feel more secure about the people you're hiring.

Why Use Apps?

You can read detailed reviews from other dog owners.

Easily compare sitters based on rates, availability, and services offered.

Many apps provide in-app messaging and payment for convenience.

Visit Local Pet Boarding Facilities

Sometimes, Affordable home services can be a great alternative to hiring a sitter who comes to your home. Halethorpe has several local pet boarding facilities that offer professional care in a secure environment. These facilities often have trained staff and 24/7 supervision, which gives you peace of mind while you’re away.

What to Look For in a Boarding Facility:

Cleanliness and safety measures.

Friendly, knowledgeable staff who genuinely care about pets.

Online reviews or testimonials from other pet owners.

Local Facilities:

Halethorpe Animal Hospital offers pet boarding alongside their veterinary services.

Join Local Community Groups

Social media platforms like Facebook and Nextdoor have community groups where local dog owners share advice, recommendations, and services. Halethorpe has several pet-focused groups where you can ask for reliable dog sitter suggestions or browse posts from local pet sitters in Halethorpe offering their services.

Benefits of Joining Local Groups:

Real-time recommendations from nearby residents.

Some sitters may only advertise within local networks, offering special deals.

You can post your own inquiry to quickly gather responses.

Where to Start:

Search for Halethorpe or Baltimore County pet groups on Facebook.

Join neighborhood-focused groups on Nextdoor for closer recommendations.

Consult with Your Vet or Groomer

Your vet or groomer is another great resource for finding reliable pet sitters. Many veterinarians and pet groomers in Halethorpe work with or know local sitters who care for pets during vacations, long work hours, or emergencies. These professionals have high standards and usually only recommend trusted individuals or businesses.

How This Helps:

Your vet or groomer likely has firsthand knowledge of the sitter’s reliability and experience.

They can recommend sitters who are experienced in handling dogs with special needs or medical conditions.

Where to Ask:

Reach out to Halethorpe Animal Hospital or any local grooming salons for suggestions.

Set Up a Meet-and-Greet Before Booking

Before committing to a pet sitter, it’s always a good idea to arrange a meet-and-greet. This step allows you to see how the sitter interacts with your dog and gives you a chance to discuss any specific care instructions. Most reliable sitters will offer this service free of charge or as part of their standard process.

Why a Meet-and-Greet is Important:

You can assess whether the sitter is attentive to your dog's needs.

It provides an opportunity to ask about the sitter's experience, availability, and emergency procedures.

Your dog can get familiar with the sitter, which can ease separation anxiety.

Look for Certifications or Specialized Experience

If your dog has special needs, such as medical conditions or behavioral issues, you might want to find a pet sitter with specific qualifications. Many professional pet sitters have certifications in pet first aid, animal behavior, or veterinary assistance. These certifications give you added confidence that your dog will be in good hands.

Certifications to Look For:

Pet First Aid and CPR certification.

Professional pet-sitting affiliations, like membership with Pet Sitters International (PSI).

Veterinary technician training or experience working in animal care settings.

Final Thoughts

Getting reliable pet sitting for your dog in Halethorpe doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you prefer asking for recommendations, using pet-sitting apps, or boarding your dog at a professional facility, there are plenty of trustworthy options available. Take time to vet the sitters, use meet-and-greet opportunities, and always trust your instincts when choosing the best care for your pet.

With these easy steps, you’ll find a reliable pet sitter that both you and your dog will love!

📞Contact us at +1 443-794-0450

🌐 https://affordablehomesvcs.com/

Email: [email protected]

#pet walket #pet sitter #Halethorpe #petsitter #petlove

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annaking0011 · 4 months

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Volunteer Opportunities in Towson, Maryland: How to Give Back to the Community.

Towson, Maryland, a vibrant and bustling suburb just north of Baltimore, offers numerous opportunities for residents to give back to their community. Whether you are a student looking to fulfill service hours, a professional seeking meaningful ways to spend your free time, or a retiree hoping to stay active and engaged, Towson has a variety of volunteer options to match your interests and availability. Here are some notable ways to contribute to the Towson community in Maryland.

1. Local Food Banks and Pantries

Food insecurity is an issue that affects many communities, and Towson is no exception. Organizations like the Assistance Center of Towson Churches (ACTC) and the Maryland Food Bank rely heavily on volunteers to help sort, package, and distribute food to those in need. Volunteering at these food banks can involve stocking shelves, preparing food packages, and assisting with distribution days. These efforts ensure that families in Towson have access to nutritious food and essential supplies.

2. Homeless Shelters and Housing Assistance

Providing support to individuals experiencing homelessness is another critical area where volunteers can make a significant impact. The Baltimore County Eastside Shelter and Sarah's Hope are two shelters that serve the Towson area, offering emergency housing and comprehensive support services. Volunteers can help by preparing meals, organizing donations, assisting with administrative tasks, and even providing mentoring and tutoring services to residents.

3. Animal Shelters and Rescue Organizations

For animal lovers, Towson offers opportunities to volunteer with local animal shelters and rescue groups. The Baltimore Humane Society and BARCS (Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter) welcome volunteers to help with animal care, adoption events, and fundraising activities. Tasks can range from walking dogs and socializing cats to assisting with the cleaning and maintenance of the facilities. These organizations depend on volunteers to help provide a safe and nurturing environment for animals in need.

4. Educational and Youth Services

Supporting educational programs and youth services is another way to give back to the Towson community. Organizations such as the Y of Central Maryland and local schools often seek volunteers to help with after-school programs, tutoring, and mentoring. By volunteering your time and skills, you can make a positive impact on the academic and personal development of young people in Towson.

5. Environmental Conservation Efforts

Towson residents can also contribute to environmental conservation efforts through organizations like Blue Water Baltimore and the Gunpowder Valley Conservancy. These groups organize events such as tree plantings, stream cleanups, and invasive species removal. Volunteering for these activities helps preserve the natural beauty of the area and promotes a healthier environment for all residents.

6. Healthcare and Senior Services

Healthcare facilities and senior centers in Towson also benefit greatly from volunteer support. Places like GBMC (Greater Baltimore Medical Center) and Towson Nursing and Rehabilitation Center offer opportunities to assist with patient services, administrative tasks, and recreational activities for seniors. Volunteering in these settings can be incredibly rewarding, providing companionship and support to patients and elderly residents.

7. Community Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, Towson hosts various community events and festivals that require volunteer assistance. From the Towson Farmers Market to the Towson Town Spring Festival, these events are essential in fostering community spirit and providing entertainment and services to residents. Volunteers can help with setup, coordination, and management of these events, ensuring they run smoothly and successfully.

How to Get Started

If you are interested in volunteering in Towson, the first step is to identify your interests and availability. Many organizations have websites where you can sign up for volunteer opportunities or contact them directly to express your interest. Additionally, Volunteer Central, a regional volunteer center serving Baltimore County, is an excellent resource for finding various volunteer opportunities in Towson and the surrounding areas.

Volunteering not only benefits the community but also provides personal rewards such as meeting new people, learning new skills, and gaining a sense of accomplishment. Whether you have a few hours to spare each week or can commit to longer-term projects, your contribution can make a significant difference in Towson. By engaging in volunteer work, you help build a stronger, more connected community for everyone.

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vickilyna · 2 years

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2022 may have started off extremely bad for me but it's ending great. I finally did what I said I've been wanting to do for so long. I adopted a senior kitty!!!!!!! DJ is now a part of my pack. He's 15 years old and I wanted him to be "home" for the holidays. He is super chatty but keeping his distance for now. He's met 3 of my 6 cats and just does a low growl as to say "back up" Thank you to my amazing cousin for arranging everything. We couldn't have pulled this off so fast without your help @laverella ❤️❤️❤️❤️ (at Baltimore County Animal Services) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cmh9s9mL6CuSS2nq453v6tBQW2fJW30u0juE2g0/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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hannigramficrecs · 3 years

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Hey, do you have any "long" (30k up only) hannigram fics, with hannibal's pov (preference, but not absolutely necessary) of AUs, like the best long fic AUs you can think of, like time-travel, different meetings, abo, etc.

No vampire, mermaids or werewolves au tho.

If you can, of course. Thank you alredy 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

I’m not sure if these are all Hannibal’s POV, but here are a list of all my favorite long AU’s (sorry if I included too many LOL). Also if anyone’s interested here are links to the mermaid and werewolf fics

Palace of Dreams by MaiTai1327 [words: 41,986]

A lonely boy at a Lithuanian orphanage creates a memory palace for him to hide away from his despicable circumstances and the nightmares haunting him. In his dreams, his palace becomes reality. And one day, he finds another boy hiding in one of its rooms.

Our Stars are the Same by beforethedawn, ConstructFairytales, Destinyawakened [words: 42,578]

Someone’s moved into the old creepy, supposedly haunted, mansion down the way from Will Graham and his family. Will never expects to befriend the new family’s son.

Vena Amoris by PaperPlaneChemTrails [words: 55,596]

Will Graham is a producer on a Bachelor knock off reality TV show. Against his protests and better judgement, Dr. Hannibal Lecter is cast as the primary love interest on the show. Despite his many initial misgivings, Hannibal is a hit, and Will finds himself as drawn into the story Hannibal is creating as everyone watching at home. Everything is going well until Will becomes suspicious that he is the real object of Hannibal’s affections, and all of a sudden contestants start to turn up murdered.

Little Arts of Vice by drinkbloodlikewine, whiskeyandspite [words: 44,991]

Cruel Intentions AU. “Tedium draws me to observation,” he murmurs. “Contemplation.” “Manipulation,” Mischa adds calmly, tilts her head when Hannibal narrows his eyes at her. “You wouldn’t deny it, Hannibal, you’re proud of that one. And in truth you do it well.” “There is little to manipulate when watching a dog chase a bird.” It starts with a bet.

A Past of Plank and Nail by gleamingandwholeanddeadly (something_safe), printersdeadly, printersdevils (tuesdaysgone) [words: 87,821]

Hannibal needs a kitchen remodel, and his colleague and friend Alana knows just the guy to help him with his rundown new home. Enter Will Graham, carpenter and contractor extraordinaire, and devastating addition to Hannibal’s daily life. When he starts running out of new projects to keep Will around, Hannibal fast realizes his infatuation is more than simple attraction - and that getting Will to agree to dinner is only the first hurdle.

Redemption by houseofcannibals [words: 132,427]

After very publicly losing his mind and murdering three young women in an unconscious state, FBI consultant Will Graham is sentenced to serve three consecutive life sentences in the notorious Shawshank State Prison. Upon arrival, he is unsettled to find himself in a cell neighboring that of infamous serial killer Dr Hannibal Lecter.

Carnivore, Won’t You Come Digest Me? by HigherMagic [words: 64,019]

Role Reversal AU: Following the execution of Garrett Jacob Hobbs, Hannibal is forced to see Doctor Will Graham for a psychiatric evaluation before he can return to the field. Once cleared, Jack insists that Will shadow Hannibal in the hopes of catching the Shrike’s copycat. Hannibal has become a master of making sure the FBI stays blind to his extracurricular activities, but Will is a man who sees far too much, and won’t be so easily overcome.

Page Six by ThisBeautifulDrowning [words: 66,839]

Crime reporter Will Graham’s column on page six of the Baltimore Sun garners him the attention of many: fans, hobby detectives, the FBI…and others. Hannibal cut off a piece of meat with surgical precision. “I find your company rather engaging.” “Maybe I don’t find you all that engaging.” Silence. Hannibal grinned. “I see that it will take more than one dinner to earn your forgiveness. Challenge accepted.”

Falls the Shadow by littlesystems [words: 72,455]

AU where Bedelia is Will’s psychiatrist instead of Hannibal, Will makes a series of increasingly questionable life choices, and no one should ever take Bedelia’s advice. Ever.

Rescues by drinkbloodlikewine and whiskeyandspite [words: 99,552]

Mischa is living with PTSD, and Hannibal seeks out a service animal to help her. He meets Will, trainer of therapy dogs - cue puppies, adorable interactions and lots of dogs. And smut. Of course.

Where the Albatross Crash-Lands by HigherMagic [words: 40,220]

Everyone has two marks on their arm: one is the name of their soulmate, the other is the name of their mortal enemy. There’s no way of knowing which is which. This same trick of fate makes it so that your Marks are the only two voices you will ever hear when you go deaf at sixteen. Hannibal has a nice voice. Will hopes he’s his mate. He hopes he never hears the voice of the Chesapeake Ripper.

Provenance by drinkbloodlikewine, whiskeyandspite [words: 62,735]

A delightful AU about a rare book dealer, an owner of a high-end coffee shop, and murder. This does involve Hannibal Lecter, after all.

A Fortunate Wound by starkaryen [words: 83,312]

Will Graham, a police officer in Baltimore, is shot while he’s on duty. The surgeon on call in the ER is Hannibal Lecter.

Until I Met You by Dormchi [words: 33,990]

Detective Will Graham needs an expert and Fire Lieutenant Hannibal Lecter happens to be available. Basically this is just arson, murder, coffee, and fluff.

Canvases by thatviciousvixen [words: 36,660]

When Hannibal meets a handsome artist with a keen interest in death he knows he’s finally met a kindred spirit. All Will needs is a little push.

In Sickness and in Health by BonesAndScales [words: 67,450]

Everyone knows that Will and Hannibal are married. Not everyone knows that they are married to each other.

The Escapists by whiskeyandspite [words: 35,368]

Will’s cellmate said nothing, and Will didn’t venture. He had been prickly enough as a lecturer, where human interaction was mandatory, and prison was not the sort of place one made friends. One either made allies or enemies, or stayed quiet enough to avoid both. Will doubted he’d be that lucky; far too easy to rile up especially when stupidity was the catalyst. Prison, Will thought absently, was similar to college.

Sweeter Bitter by wormsin [words: 89,503]

Will is an awkward student and Hannibal an intrigued mentor.

Before You And After You by ache_for_him, Breakmybones (CarterReid), CarterReid [words: 33,734]

Hannibal and Will had a past: a dirty, bloody, violent past. Will was sure he’d never see his own personal monster again - then he walked into Jack Crawford’s office.

Ethics & Aesthetics by fragile-teacup [words: 106,330]

Pride and Prejudice omegaverse AU

Look, Mother! The Sheep Have Devoured the Wolves! by HigherMagic [words: 102,934]

Hannibal and Bedelia are married, but unable to have children. At Margot’s insistence, Hannibal agrees to meet the Omega that was a surrogate for her and Alana. Will is rough-edged, unrefined, and everything Hannibal shouldn’t desire. This arrangement promises to be clean, and simple. Of course, nothing concerning Will Graham is ever simple.

Wings of Wax and Feather by BelladonnaWyck and raiast [words: 55,947]

“Did you just smell me?” "Difficult to avoid. My apologies, I didn’t realize there were any Omegas in this section of the prison.” “Most get sent to the Omega Holding Facility two counties over. But then, most don’t get done in for rippin’ out an Alpha’s throat in the middle of the street.” or Hannibal Lecter had always known the winding road of fate may one day lead him straight to a prison cell. He’d never imagined he’d find his true mate there.

Truly, Madly, Deeply by slashyrogue [words: 52,811]

They meet by chance at a Christmas Party and share a kiss that seals their fate.

Purity by PixieDust291 [words: 130,528]

Will is cast aside by his alpha and sacrificed to the Wendigo that hunts in the forest. However, after confronting the creature Will then finds himself in the home of Hannibal. The alpha lives alone and seems to have taken it upon himself to nurture Will back to health. Over time Will grows comfortable with Hannibal and slowly reveals the reasons for his abandonment. Hannibal, being a pure bred alpha of the highest caliber, is well aware of just how rare and valuable Will is and decides to take the wounded omega for himself.

Quatervois by stratumgermanitivum, whiskeyandspite [words: 33,226]

Will is an Omega who desires independence and freedom. Hannibal is an Alpha who finds his mind curious. They make a deal: if Will can convince Hannibal that he is worth more than breeding stock, and can go through his heat without begging for his Alpha, Hannibal will not mate him, but make him a ward instead; Will could go to college, get a job, do anything he wanted. If not, then he will be Hannibal’s mate, bear pups, and accept his role. But is it really as simple as that?

#hannibal #hannigram #hannibal fanfiction #hannigram fanfiction #hannibal fanfic #hannigram fanfic #hannibal au #hannigram au #murder husbands #hannibal fic recs #hannigram fic recs #hannibal lecter #will graham #will x hannibal #mads mikkelsen #hugh dancy #replies

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thegayneapigs · 4 years

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I think we're in the same area, based on some of your comments about locations and who you foster for. I adopted an unaltered male about a year ago. I want to get him neutered so I can add females to my pig family. Can you recommend a couple of vets who'd be good? I also email MGPR to ask. If you message me I can get more specific about my geography--I'm definitely south of you. Thanks!

Hi! We live in the center of Baltimore City. Since fostering with MGPR, we’ve been using Warm and Fuzzy, in Middle who River (Bal. County). It’s about half an hour away from us, definitely worth it. We have had really good experiences with them, one of their vets specializes in guinea pigs. They were very patient and knowledgeable, and this was back early in COVID when we weren’t allowed to come into the building. They did the whole assessment at the front window where we could see! We love them. Other than that, we used to go to Lutherville Animal Hospital (we used to live closer). They have one vet who was always really great, and they were always happy to answer questions over the phone (one of our pigs ate a whole leaf of one of my plants once, so we panicked and called them; very helpful!). I’m not sure about other vets, I’m glad you reached out to MGPR! That would have been my next suggestion. I believe other members also like Chadwell in Abingdon MD, Blue Ridge in Purcellville VA, and Stahl Exotic Animal Veterinary Services (SEAVS) in Fairfax VA. Not sure if you’re far enough south for VA, but they would probably be great options.

Let us know if you don’t hear back from MGPR soon, I can post in our forum and ask for you! - Kat

#guinea pigs #ask #answered

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moonlight26posts-blog · 8 months

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In Baltimore County, MD: In Baltimore County, MD: SOS: Over Capacity with Dogs and that includes TETRUS!

Baltimore County Animal Services is urgently seeking rescue placement or adopters for all of our available dogs. We currently have 25 dogs that have been here since 2023, and only 26 kennels in our adoptable room. We have lots of dogs waiting to move up and be adopted. Despite over 10 dogs being adopted, rescued, or redeemed by their owner today, we are still over capacity and have dogs doubled up in cages.

We have dogs of varying ages that are medium or large. Adopters are welcome to visit our available pets Tuesdays-Sundays 12pm-5pm. Staff are able to help find the best fit for adopters!

If you would like more info on any of these dogs, are interested in pulling any of these dogs, or have any questions, please let us know!

Tetrus is 3 years old, 52 pounds, and has been with us since November

Thank you, Megan Phillabaum Rescue Coordinator Baltimore County Animal Services 13800 Manor Road Baldwin, MD 21013 410-887-7297 [email protected]

#dog rescue maryland #dog rescue #dog rescue baltimore maryland #doglover #dog adoption maryland #cute animals #adopt a dog #pets #baltimore county #baltimore dogs #baltimore county animal service #baltimore county animal services

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vickilyna · 2 years

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2022 may have started off extremely bad for me but it's ending great. I finally did what I said I've been wanting to do for so long. I adopted a senior kitty!!!!!!! DJ is now a part of my pack. He's 15 years old and I wanted him to be "home" for the holidays. He is super chatty but keeping his distance for now. He's met 3 of my 6 cats and just does a low growl as to say "back up" Thank you to my amazing cousin for arranging everything. We couldn't have pulled this off so fast without your help @laverella ❤️❤️❤️❤️ (at Baltimore County Animal Services) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cmh9dbJrwUB5ED0SbssPTzHSJ9PaGzQFru32eA0/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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ontheflypest-blog · 5 years

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On The Fly Pest Solutions provides licensed pest control and wildlife control service throughout Baltimore and Howard County, Maryland.

On The Fly Pest Solutions provides licensed pest control and wildlife control service throughout Baltimore and Howard County, Maryland. On The Fly's wildlife removal team is committed to solving human-wildlife conflicts in a safe and sustainable manner for all involved. We provide guaranteed wildlife exclusion services, humane animal trapping and emergency animal removal 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We offer nuisance animal removal for bats, raccoons, squirrels, skunks, opossums and much more.

On The Fly Pest Solutions 5 Church Ln Unit 102, Pikesville, MD 21208 (410) 982-5050 https://ontheflypestsolutions.com

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scifigeneration · 6 years

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Could villains clone themselves to take over the world?

by Hua Lu and Jessica Allison

When many people hear the word cloning, they imagine armies of human clones created for nefarious purposes. andriano.cz/Shutterstock.com

If asked about clones, most people think of evil sci-fi characters. However, in real life, the word “clone” often has broader, far more positive applications. Just as office workers replicate documents by using copy machines, scientists like us who study plant disease use the biological equivalent of a copier to clone genes, cells, and tissues, as well as entire organisms.

The two strands of DNA are brought together in a double helix when chemicals known as bases, ‘pair up.’ Macrovector / SHutterstock.com

DNA cloning

The most common type of cloning done in the lab is gene replication. Each gene is a segment of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acids) that is made up of pairs of chemicals called bases. These base pairs form DNA’s iconic double helix. Depending on the species, the whole genome could have anywhere from few thousands to billions of base pairs that make up just a few to tens of thousands of genes. The human genome alone has 3 billion base pairs that make up about 30,000 genes.

Genes code for traits such as eye color and height, as well as crucial features like the development of the heart and the five senses. Some genes can even predispose people toward certain diseases or personalities.

In order to unlock the secrets of life hidden in DNA, scientists are examining how individual genes function. To do so, they first copy a section of DNA that contains the gene of interest. Copying, or cloning, is often done via a biochemical reaction called polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, that mimics natural DNA replication. Once copied, the gene of interest can also be inserted to a plasmid (a ring of DNA) which is taken up by the simple bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli).

When the E. coli replicates, the plasmids are also replicated, generating exponential copies of the gene. Gene cloning helps scientists reveal the sequence of DNA in a gene that encodes a trait. This ultimately enables them to manipulate the trait in an organism by modifying the gene – for example, changing its expression level and/or changing its sequence. Through these manipulations, scientists can figure out what the gene does and how it works. In some cases, such information can lead to earlier detection and better treatments of debilitating medical conditions and diseases.

Cloning comes in many forms. A. DNA cloning via PCR and a plasmid. B. Plant cloning. A spider plant continuously reproduces asexually, making clones of itself that hang from it searching for soil to root in. C. Animal cloning. The stages depict the introduction of diploid nucleus from a mature cell into an enucleated egg cell. This is the process that got us Dolly the sheep. Hua Lu, CC BY-SA

Cloning cells, tissues and organisms

Similarly, scientists can clone whole cells and tissues by providing the right nutrients and environment. Done carefully, cell cloning is used to replace dead cells in hospital patients. For replacement of larger body regions, tissue cloning is vital.

Some organisms can even regrow whole parts of their bodies in response to organ loss; for example, lizards can regrow their tails and planarians (a type of flatworm) can replace their own heads. For some plants, in vitro culture has been routinely used to generate many copies of certain organs: for example, hairy roots or multiple shoots, without the presence of the whole plant body.

However, the cloning of animal organs is not so easy for human researchers to accomplish. Organ cloning is not just simply putting the correct types of cells together to make tissues and then the tissues together to make an organ. To make a functional organ, such as a heart that can beat, one needs to go back to the beginning of heart development and find a heart progenitor cell. Then this cell is somehow to be tricked to go through the steps for heart development in the absence of the context of the whole body and eventually grow to be the heart. How we can achieve this is still a mystery. Scientists are working hard, but only the future will tell if we can accomplish human organ cloning at a level that would revolutionize successful organ transplants and replacements.

All of this, however, pales in comparison to the cloning of a whole multicellular organism. Cloning an organism produces an exact genetic replica without requiring sexual reproduction. Plants are undoubtedly the champions in this respect; some plants can simply regrow from cuttings or grow a clone from parts of their bodies.

But animal cloning has encountered several obstacles. This process currently involves transferring a nucleus (DNA) from a donor adult cell to an egg cell that has had its nucleus (DNA) removed. This chimeric cell is then stimulated to become embryonic or pluripotent, meaning it can divide and differentiate into other types of cells and eventually form an embryo. Although this might appear simple, this is the most challenging step of cloning an organism.

Once the embryo is obtained, the next step is quite straightforward; the embryo is implanted into a female’s womb and the clone will continue to develop. This implantation step is commonly done in humans as part of the process of in vitro fertilization. Babies produced through in vitro fertilization carry one set of DNA from the father (sperm donor) and another set from the mother (egg donor). However, clones will have the same chromosomal DNA as the initial adult cell that donates its nucleus (DNA). Because of the difficulties associated with the cloning process, few experts in the world have successfully cloned animals. Additionally, some of the cloned animals exhibit health problems or reduced lifespans. Despite this, the list of cloned animals continues to grow, including sheep, cows, oxen, cats, dogs, deer, horses, mules, rabbits and rats.

Bernann McKinney, right, from the U.S. holds one of five cloned pit bull puppies beside a mother dog during her first meeting with them at the Seoul National University Hospital for Animals in Seoul, South Korea, Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2008. McKinney has received five baby dogs, copies of her beloved late pit bull ‘Booger,’ from a South Korean biotech firm in what it calls the world’s first commercial canine cloning service. Ahn Young-joon / AP Photo

Supervillain clones

With cloning of whole organisms a reality (though currently not feasible for widespread use), you may wonder if one day, an evil villain would be able to make thousands of copies of him or herself. Would that evil villain then take over the world?

The answer to this question has many layers.

Let’s consider the individual clones. Since they are humans, the clones will not simply respond to commands like robots or be puppet-like extensions of the original villain. As with identical twins, the clones may share predispositions, but their personalities will not be the same. Since so much of personality and behavior is influenced by the environment, the clones may even grow to oppose the villain! And, while the villain may not care, there are ethical issues involved with human cloning. Would society accept the act of cloning? Would clones be given the full rights of natural-born humans? How would it affect families if they decided to clone deceased loved ones?

Even amid these questions, organismal cloning has tremendous applications for society. It helps us to save species around the world from endangerment and extinction, although it doesn’t generate the genetic diversity required to maintain a healthy population. It is also an important tool to study diseases and to replicate individual organisms with important or rare characteristics that could be lost through breeding, such as cows with high milk production or animals that can make valuable medicinal compounds.

Although both promising and exciting, the road of cloning entire organisms is filled with ethical pitfalls and scientific conundrums; perhaps as a society, we are not ready to deal with the evil villains and their clones just yet.

About The Authors:

Hua Lu is Professor of Biological Sciences at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and Jessica Allison is a Ph.D. Student in Plant Biology, also at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

This article is republished from our content partners, The Conversation, under a Creative Commons license.

#technology #technopolitics #cloning #human cloning #sci fi problems #featured

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moonlight26posts-blog · 8 months

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In Baltimore County, MD: In Baltimore County, MD: SOS: Over Capacity with Dogs and that includes THOR!

We have dogs of varying ages that are medium or large. Adopters are welcome to visit our available pets Tuesdays-Sundays 12pm-5pm. Staff are able to help find the best fit for adopters! If you would like more info on any of these dogs, are interested in pulling any of these dogs, or have any questions, please let us know!

Thor is 1 year old, 51 pounds, and has been with us since November

Thank you, Megan Phillabaum Rescue Coordinator Baltimore County Animal Services 13800 Manor Road Baldwin, MD 21013 410-887-7297 [email protected]

#dog rescue maryland #dog rescue #dog rescue baltimore maryland #doglover #dog adoption maryland #cute animals #adopt a dog #pets #baltimore county #baltimore county animal services

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highvoltagearea · 4 years

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Five Places Where You Can Collect Fossils Around D.C.

About 20 million years ago, the land that’s now Virginia, Maryland and the nation’s capital Washington, D.C. was underwater. Where monuments now stand, giant megalodon shark hunted down prehistoric whales and dolphins and fish darted through coral. The marks these creatures left on the world haven’t washed away, as folks stumble on fossil evidence of their ancient lives all the time.

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History boasts fossils from all around the world, and yet plenty come from the area surrounding the museum itself. There’s a Miocene era baleen whale skull on display that was found in the Calvert Cliffs in Maryland, for example. A giant Megalodon replica hangs from the atrium in the cafe; a nearby plaque explains that you can still find “Meg” teeth on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay.

For amateur fossil hunters dreaming of coming across a megalodon tooth on the beach, we’ve curated a list of fossil hot spots just a hop, skip and jump from the Natural History Museum.

Calvert Cliffs – Lusby, Maryland

Calvert Cliffs State Park

(Daniel Slim/AFP via Getty Images)

Perhaps the most well-known fossil site on the east coast, the Calvert Cliffs cover about 24 miles of shoreline in Maryland. More than 600 species of fossils, including prehistoric oyster shells, mollusks and scallops as well as shark teeth, have been found on the shores. You might even find a megalodon tooth—most likely, however, you’ll find smaller teeth of other kinds of ancient sharks. Most finds date back to the Miocene era, or around 15 million years ago.

You might be wondering why it is so easy to find shark teeth millions of years old on the beach. According to Smithsonian marine paleobiologist David Bohaska, sharks lose their teeth and regrow new ones constantly. In its lifetime, he explains, a single shark can have thousands and thousands of teeth.

One location where you can access the cliffs is at Calvert Cliffs State Park in Lusby, Maryland. Just a 1.8-mile walk from the parking lot, you can scour the open beach area with a small shovel and sieve—these you’ll need to bring yourself—for remnants of prehistoric sea life. (Don’t bring a hammer or bang on rocks as this will only damage the fossil, Bohaska advises.) The cliffs are layered at a slant, so you’ll find fossils from different geologic time periods depending on where you are.

“The layers at the top are the more recent chapters and the stuff at the bottom is older,” Bohaska explains. He warns that it is illegal to climb on the cliffs or search beneath them in this area, so pay attention to signage.

Don’t forget to stay socially distant while fossil collecting during the Covid-19 pandemic. Try to give others about six feet of room—about the size of a baleen whale skull, for reference.

(Courtesy of Stratford Hall)

“You’re out in the wild, be aware,” says Bohaska. “If you look at the cliff and it has a crack, or if there’s a tree overhanging, that’s not a place you want to stand.”

You can find lots of in-depth information about where to look for fossils and how to determine what you found on the Maryland Geological Survey website. You can also download Smithsonian Scholarly Press’ The Geology and Vertebrate Paleontology of Calvert Cliffs, Maryland, USA online.

Be sure to plan ahead for filled-to-capacity closures on busy holiday weekends like Labor Day. And pack your mask: The Maryland Park Service requires face coverings in public buildings and outdoor public spaces wherever social distancing is not possible.

Stratford Hall – Stratford, Virginia

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In 1717, Virginia colonist and politician Thomas Lee purchased Stratford Hall, a 1,200-acre property in Stratford, Virginia. About 17 million years earlier, during the Miocene era, however, the Stratford Hall estate’s towering 150-foot-high cliffs were actually part of the seafloor, according to its website.

In 2013, amateur paleontologist Jon Bachman—who serves as Stratford Hall’s educational events coordinator—found a 15-million-year-old whale skull on the shores of the Potomac River at the four-generation Lee family home, where Robert E. Lee was born in 1807. The six-foot-long, 1,000-pound fossil was unearthed when the banks of the river eroded that summer. The skull was “the biggest” found near the cliffs, but there’s plenty more where that came from, including “shark-toothed porpoises, salt-water crocodiles, sea cows, gopher turtles [and]rays,” according to Stratford Hall’s website.

The cliffs still turn loose small fossils as they erode. As sediment accumulated for millions of years, the ocean underwent a series of marine transgressions, meaning that over a long period of time, the shoreline receded and advanced several times. Each time that movement happened a new layer of sediment was dumped, and those layers can be seen as one looks up at the cliffs.

“The back and forth of the ocean created the right environment to preserve the remains of countless animals,” Bachman explains. “Now, as the river current scours the cliffs, these fossils are exposed and slowly emerge out of the cliffs. That’s what people want to find.”

Jon Bachman (left) and Howard University anatomy professor Daryl Domning and his daughter, Charlotte Domning, make their way to the site to excavate the skeleton of a prehistoric whale in August 2013.

(Nikki Kahn/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

Today, the waterline at the Stratford cliffs is about 16 million years old, Bachman says.

Due to irresponsible fossil hunting practices, however, visitors must purchase a grounds pass ($8 for adults and $5 for kids) to access a small, well-marked, 100-yard-long collecting area on the beach. The Hall still offers guided collecting tours led by one of their Paleo Patrol volunteers, explains Alex Withers, an events coordinator at Stratford Hall. Tours are typically about four hours long. Withers notes there is limited weekend tour availability left in the 2020 season, but they are taking reservations for 2021. (You can read up about their COVID-19 guidelines on their website.)

Bachman, who used to be a fourth grade teacher in Virginia’s Prince William County, says making fossil collecting a lifelong hobby is a worthwhile adventure. “It takes patience, this stuff isn’t littering the ground,” he says. “It’s humbling and fascinating hobby.”

Start with reviewing the principles of geology, Bachman suggests. Then move on to studying the geology in your area, which will tell you what rock formation and landscape features are nearby—and therefore, what fossils might be found there. State geologic societies have useful information on their websites.

“It’s just a delight and you don’t have to get a degree in it to enjoy it,” he adds. “You can educate yourself in stages. It’s about familiarizing yourself with the landscape around us.”

Westmoreland State Park Fossil Beach – Montross, Virginia

Westmoreland State Park Fossil Beach

(Virginia State Parks)

About 70 miles south of the Natural History Museum, Westmoreland State Park’s Fossil Beach is another hotbed for prehistoric shark teeth, but what’s really eye-catching about the location is the stratigraphy—or rocky layers—of the cliffs. Gazing up at the cliffs’ stripes is like looking 25 million years back in time; each layer represents millions of years of geologic history. Fossil Beach neighbors Stratford Hall, so the geology in both areas is similar.

“The river current erodes the sediment and fossilized material washes up on the beach,” explains Bachman, who lives nearby and collects fossils at this location. Bachman’s wife, Dianne, recently found the lower part of a leg bone, which they later found out may belong to a Miocene pseudo-toothed pelican, Pelagornis miocaenus, after having their colleague Robert Weems, a paleontologist with the U.S. Geological Survey, take a look. The bone is about six inches long and hollow, much like bird bones are today.

“People probably stepped over it a million times,” says Bachman.

Jon Bachman, an amateur paleontologist and avid fossil collecter, says his favorite find isn’t his own. His wife found a Miocene era bird bone recently.

(Courtesy of Jon Bachman)

The area was once home to the unique prehistoric whale species, Eobalaenoptera harrisoni. A model of the 14 million-year-old baleen whale hangs in the Caroline County visitor’s center just a short drive from Fossil Beach. When the original fossil was excavated in the 1990s, researchers recovered half of the full skeleton, making it one of the most complete and largest prehistoric whale skeletons in the U.S. The skeleton is housed in the Virginia Museum of Natural History in Martinsville.

During the pandemic, “face coverings are required in all park facilities and where social distancing is not possible,” according to the park’s website. Virginia State Parks also recommends bringing your own soap and hand sanitizer. Of course, respect social distancing and keep a six-foot space between yourself and others. Step aside to let others pass on trails.

Purse State Park – Nanjemoy, Maryland

Purse State Park

(Kim Hairston/Baltimore Sun/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

Just over an hour’s drive south of D.C., Purse State Park is located on a stretch of the banks of the Potomac River called Wades Bay. Paleontologist Michelle Pinsdorf of Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History says most of the fossils you’ll find at this site are from the late Paleocene—specifically the Aquia Formation rock layer, which is 55 to 59 million years old.

“During this time period, many types of animals were evolving and diversifying to adapt to the extinction event at the end of the Cretaceous time period,” Pinsdorf writes in an email to Smithsonian magazine. “Because the deposit is marine in origin, the teeth of a wide variety of shark and bony fish species can be found in this formation.”

Alongside shark teeth, you may find an occasional prehistoric crocodile tooth, which by comparison sort of look like “an ice cream cone with an almost silky texture,” says Bohaska.

You’ll also spot plenty of fossilized shells. Pinsdorf says prehistoric oyster shells are among her favorite finds at Purse State Park. “Although they are heavily eroded and don’t have much of the shell pattern or shape left, they are a beautiful purple color and have an interesting luster and smooth texture,” she says.

The ideal time to search is during low tide when there is enough shoreline to scour. “But if you go in the days after a storm or rough waters, you’re more likely to find fossils that have recently eroded out of the bedrock, and are in better condition as a result,” explains Pinsdorf.

The trails are unmarked so it’s important to carry a compass and map, according to Maryland’s tourism department. Pinsdorf suggests taking a quarter-mile trail westward, across the road from the Park’s parking area on Route 224 (Riverside Road), to a narrow stretch of beach along Wade’s Bay.

“Bringing a colander or mesh screen is recommended to aid in sifting the gravel, in which small but numerous shark teeth and can be found,” she says. “Larger, weathered oyster shell fragments are present at this site also.”

During the coronavirus pandemic, face coverings are required in park buildings and outdoor areas where social distancing is not possible. Some parks have introduced additional cleaning procedures for restrooms or closed public restrooms. Others may be offering portable bathrooms instead, according to Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources.

Dinosaur Park – Laurel, Maryland

Steve Jabo, a fossil preparator at the Smithsonian, works on a large fossilized dinosaur bone found at Dinosaur State Park in 2011.

(Marvin Joseph/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

Originally a prime site for iron mining, African American miners in 1858 were the first to discover dinosaur fossils at this site. Geologist Philip Thomas Tyson brought the fossilized bones from the mines to a scientific conference in 1859, where they were officially identified as dinosaur remains.

“It’s a place where people have been working for a few hundred years,” explains paleontologist Matt Carrano of Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. If the area where Dinosaur Park now stands hadn’t been mined at all, it would look like a normal Maryland hillside covered in vegetation. “It’s only a good spot for fossil collecting because it was mined for so long,” he says.” You’re looking at bedrock where there should be soil.”

Today, Dinosaur Park features fossilized dino bones, including some from Maryland’s state dinosaur Astrodon johnstoni, and floral remnants from the early Cretaceous period about 115 million years ago. At the time, the region would have resembled something like a swampy bayou with muddy streams. According to Carrano, the sediment was a very fine, almost “pottery-quality,” clay-like material.

“You’re walking on a clay layer that was deposited 110 million years ago,” Carrano says. Now, when it rains, the clay absorbs the water and then dries out again, revealing fossil fragments in that process. The most common finds are plant material, like wood and pine cones.

“Every now and then the conditions are just right and you get a situation when the environment is saving things instead of recycling them,” Carrano explains.

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Due to COVID-19, all public programs and fossil collecting at Dinosaur Park are currently on hold, but the park area is open from sunrise to sunset. The unrestricted area features a Cretaceous-era garden and a climbable dinosaur “skeleton.” Signs describe the kinds of dinosaurs that once roamed the area, what Maryland’s prehistoric environment looked like and the African American history in the area, according to the park’s website.

Dinosaur Park usually serves as an outdoor laboratory, where the public can work alongside paleontologists to help uncover the past on the first and third Saturdays of the month or by appointment. Hundreds of fossils discovered by visitors have been collected and cataloged to date, enhancing our knowledge about the ancient ecosystem that once existed here.

“There’s a steady stream of new discoveries,” Carrano says. “We’re in this phase when the variety is much greater than we knew, just because we didn’t have much collected from the area. Many times, you’ll know you have something new, but you don’t have enough of it to give it a new name.”

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