We want to extend our deepest gratitude to Chris and Liz for their incredible dedication and hard work in keeping our South West Off Leash Recreation Area clean and safe for everyone.
This spring, Chris and Liz took it upon themselves to clean up the dog poop left behind by our furry friends over the winter months. Their selfless actions have made a significant difference in maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of our beloved park.
While their efforts are truly commendable, it’s important to remember that they wouldn’t have to work tirelessly if every pet owner did their part to scoop after their own pet. In gratitude we recognize that the City of Saskatoon generously provides pet waste pick-up bags and trash bins for this purpose, making it convenient for all visitors to dispose of their pet’s waste responsibly.
Chris and Liz’s commitment to keeping our park clean not only benefits human visitors but also ensures a safer and more enjoyable environment for our canine companions. Their actions exemplify the true spirit of community and environmental stewardship.
Additionally, we would like to express our gratitude to Barb and Garry for their artwork on the new posters, which help raise awareness and support Liz and Chris’s efforts in maintaining the cleanliness of the park.
When Chris and Liz arrived at the dog park, they observed the site covered in dog poop and felt compelled to take action. They brought with them a garbage bag and worked tirelessly to make the area look more pleasant. We can all assist their efforts by also carrying a garbage bag with us when visiting the park and disposing of pet waste responsibly. If you bend down to pick up after your dog, pick up a few extra while there! It makes a huge difference to the park, and to Chris and Liz as well.
Let us all come together in the spirit of Richard St. Barbe Baker, who coined the motto “TWAHAMWE,” which is Swahili for “All Together or Pull Together,” for the International Tree Foundation. Let us also heed our Saskatchewan provincial motto, “Multis e gentibus vires” (From Many Peoples Strength).
Once again, a heartfelt thank you to Chris and Liz for their collaboration as park users in keeping our South West Off Leash Recreation Area clean and enjoyable for all. Your dedication and commitment are truly appreciated.
Additionally, it’s essential to recognize the potential health risks associated with dogs ingesting poop. While it may seem harmless to dogs, the ingestion of poop from other dogs or animals can lead to illness. Parasites, viruses, and bacteria present in feces pose serious health threats to dogs. Hookworms, roundworms, and tapeworms are among the parasites that dogs can contract through the ingestion of poop.
Therefore, it’s crucial to discourage dogs from eating poop and to also promptly clean up after our own pets to minimize the risk of illness and maintain the overall health and well-being of our furry companions and the biodiversity of the forest.
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063
Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot
Attention dog owners! The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has reported that a dog in Oshawa, Ontario, died after contracting the avian flu, also known as H5N1 or the bird flu. The dog was infected after chewing on a wild goose and subsequently developed “clinical signs” and passed away. Although the risk of a human contracting avian influenza from a domestic pet is minor, experts warn that the virus is “gathering momentum” and becoming more of a human threat.
Therefore, it is crucial to take precautions with pets, such as not feeding them raw meat from game birds or poultry and not allowing pets to consume or play with dead wild birds found outside. The virus has been detected in other mammals as well, such as foxes, seals, dolphins, black bears, and wild minks, raccoons, porpoises, and skunks from areas across Canada. To reduce the risk of exposure, keep dogs (and other domestic animals) away from wild birds, especially in areas where avian flu activity is prevalent. It’s also important to note that canine flu vaccines do not protect against avian flu. Although the risk of transmission to humans from infected dogs is low, it is still an unknown and a concerning issue.
Puppies. Dog as PetsDogs in Off Leash Dog Park socializing, playing and having funActive Dog outsideDog waiting for a walk at South West Off Leash Dog Park
As pet owners, we want to ensure the well-being of our beloved companions. However, one of the most threatening diseases to both humans and animals is the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 or Avian Flu. This virus primarily affects birds, but it has also been sporadically detected in mammals such as cats, dogs, raccoons, striped skunks, and red foxes.
Although HPAI is primarily a disease of birds, it can also infect mammals that hunt, scavenge or consume infected birds. For instance, outdoor cats that hunt and consume an infected bird or dogs that scavenge dead birds could get infected with the virus. In such instances, it is crucial to report it to the regional avian influenza hotline or the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative.
If you suspect the presence of Avian flu in an area, it is crucial to report it immediately as it is a notifiable disease. According to the current guidelines, you should contact the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative.if you come across any of the following situations: one or more dead birds of prey, three or more dead gulls or waterfowl (such as swans, geese, and ducks), or five or more dead birds of any species. By reporting these cases, appropriate measures can be taken to control the spread of the disease and protect both wildlife and humans.
Early detection of HPAI in birds is crucial to stop its spread. Infected poultry and pet birds may show signs such as sudden death, low energy or appetite, purple discoloration or swelling of various body parts, reduced egg production, nasal discharge, coughing, or sneezing, lack of coordination, and diarrhea.
Become aware of signs and symptoms of Avian Flu = HPAI = H5N1 for pets.
In areas where there have been reported outbreaks of bird flu, contact between dogs and birds or poultry should be prevented. Dogs should be stopped from picking up and eating any sick or dead wild birds. If they are likely to flush out any carcasses, they should be kept on a lead. This will help prevent the spread of H5N1 to other birds.
Overall, the risk of H5N1 influenza infection in dogs from normal activities like walking in a park is low. However, it is crucial to exercise common sense and take preventive measures such as avoiding areas with lots of birds, being more restrictive about outdoor activities and observant when flu is active in birds in the area, and being alert and observant keeping dogs away from sick or dead birds. By taking these steps, we can ensure the safety of our pets and prevent the spread of the disease.
When it comes to bringing a pet into your home, there are countless options available. From breeders to pet stores, the possibilities can be overwhelming. But what if you could find the perfect companion while also doing something good for the world? That’s where New Hope Dog Rescue comes in.
As Tami Vangool, the Executive Director of New Hope Dog Rescue in Saskatoon, SK, explains, adopting a dog from a rescue organization can have far-reaching benefits. Not only do you provide a safe and loving home for a dog in need, but you also help to reduce the demand for commercial breeders (also known as puppy mills). It’s a win-win situation that allows you to find a furry friend while also making a positive impact on the world.
Jax the Rescue Dog, now enjoying the South West Off Leash Recreation Area
But what makes New Hope Dog Rescue stand out from other rescue organizations? For starters, the organization operates on a foster-based model, meaning that every dog is placed with a dedicated foster parent who provides care and love until a permanent home can be found. This helps to ensure that every dog is matched with an adoptive family that is the right fit for their personality, energy level, and training requirements. It also means that every dog receives the proper medical care they need, from vaccinations to spaying/neutering to more extensive treatments as needed.
New Hope Dog Rescue has been rescuing and re-homing dogs in need since 2003, and the organization is committed to promoting responsible dog ownership through education and community outreach. By partnering with loving and dedicated foster parents, New Hope Dog Rescue is able to provide neglected and unwanted dogs with a safe and supportive environment, while also helping to address the overpopulation problem.
If you’re considering bringing a pet into your home, why not follow in the footsteps of Sarah and Jax and consider adopting from New Hope Dog Rescue? Not only will you be giving a deserving dog a second chance at a happy life, but you’ll also be making a positive impact on the world. Contact New Hope Dog Rescue today to learn more about their adoption process and the wonderful dogs waiting to find their forever homes.
In the heart of winter, a shivering and scared dog was found abandoned in the Avalon Dog Park. The dog was a rescue, previously adopted from a shelter with the promise of a forever home, but now left to fend for herself in the cold. But just when all hope seemed lost, a dog lover named Sarah came to her rescue.
Sarah, a seasoned dog owner, had always had a soft spot for rescue dogs, and she could see the potential in the shivering ball of fur in front of her. She took the dog in, giving her a warm and safe place to stay, and soon enough, the dog began to show her gratitude and love.
Jax the Rescue Dog, now enjoying the South West Off Leash Recreation Area
As it turned out, the dog was a quick learner, and soon became well-behaved and obedient. She loved to play and go on long walks, and she had a special talent for making those around her smile. Sarah knew that she had found a special dog, and she was determined to give her the forever home she deserved.
But just when everything seemed perfect, Sarah faced a new challenge. The dog, who had been terrified of water, would not even go near a bathtub. Sarah, determined to help her furry friend, took things slowly, and with patience and understanding, she was able to help the dog overcome her fear.
And so, the dog who had been abandoned twice, finally found her forever home with Sarah. She was no longer a shivering ball of fur, but a happy and confident dog, loved and cherished by her new family.
Jax the Rescue Dog, now enjoying the South West Off Leash Recreation Area
This rescue within a rescue is a reminder that every dog deserves a second chance, and that love and patience can work wonders. So here’s to the dog who found a home, and to Sarah, the dog lover who gave her one. May their story inspire others to open their hearts and homes to rescue dogs in need, and to see the love and joy that they have to offer.
Next time you consider getting a pet follow in the footsteps of Sarah and Jax New Hope Dog Rescue
On the outskirts of Saskatoon, surrounded by lush greenery and prairie grasslands, lies the picturesque Avalon Dog Park. For many local dog lovers, it’s a place to relax and enjoy the company of their four-legged friends, to run and play and savor the fresh air. But for one special dog, it was a place of abandonment and loneliness, until a chance encounter changed his life forever.
Two years ago, a scruffy little terrier mix was found wandering aimlessly in the park, without a collar or any identification. He was skinny, scared, and alone. Concerned citizens tried to find his owner but to no avail. He was eventually taken to a local animal shelter, where he was given a temporary home, but it was clear that he needed a permanent family to call his own.
Enter Sarah, a dog lover who had gone to adopt a dog from the Saskatoon Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, SPCA. When she first laid eyes on the little terrier, she was struck by his sweet face and gentle disposition, despite the rough start to his life. She knew in her heart that she had to take him home, to give him the love and stability he so desperately needed.
Jax the Rescue Dog, now enjoying the South West Off Leash Recreation Area
And so began a beautiful friendship that has flourished over the past two years. Sarah gave the terrier a warm and loving forever home, and he repaid her in kind with endless tail wags, joyful barks, and unconditional love. They quickly became inseparable, and Sarah couldn’t imagine her life without him.
The little terrier, now a plump and happy pup, has become a regular at the South West Off Leash Recreation Area over in the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area in Saskatoon, where he’s known for his playful nature and friendly demeanor. He’s a beloved member of the local dog-walking community, and he never fails to bring a smile to the faces of everyone he meets.
Sarah is grateful every day for the chance encounter that brought her and her furry friend together, and she’s proud to have given a forever home to a dog in need. She’s a testament to the power of love, and a shining example of how a little kindness can go a long way in making a difference in the life of an animal.
Jax the Rescue Dog, now enjoying the South West Off Leash Recreation Area
So next time you’re walking your dog in the South West Off Leash Recreation Area, take a moment to reflect on the incredible bond between humans and their canine companions, and remember the power of a little love to change a life. And who knows, you just might meet your own furry best friend in the process.
Weather whiplash: Frost Bite warnings in the air once again- be very careful, watch the forecasts as the weather fluctuates back up, just to plunge very cold again.
It is the kind of weather where hot water freezes when thrown up into the air at forty below zero degrees F. What happens to you when you walk your dog when there are extreme winter weather warnings?
If the wind chill dips down to –28 or colder, exposed skin can freeze in less than half an hour! Then when the weather drops to –40, now frostbite can occur on exposed areas of skin in less than 10 minutes. If it gets colder yet, say to –55, then the danger of frostbite occurs within two minutes. Frostbite affects both humans and their pets outdoors on off leash dog walks.
Please dress adequately for the weather. In the extreme weather warnings, ski pants and “thermal long johns” may help to keep you warmer. Down fill jackets go a long way towards warmth. Check the cold rating on your boots, and layer in a felt insole for extra coziness for your toes. Always remember at least one pair of mittens, if not two pairs of mittens. Two pairs of socks are also wonderful for warmer feet. Besides protecting fingers and toes, small muscle areas like ears, cheeks and noses need protection from frost bite dangers, so wear scarves or balaclavas. A lot of warmth is lost out the top of the head, so wear a good toque or warm head covering gear.
Cold Weather Dress Warmly
Keep your cell phone next to your person when out walking as cold cell phone batteries also are affected by the extreme cold, and will lose their charge quickly in a purse or outer pocket. The cell phone may be a necessity in case of emergency.
Keep your vehicle gassed up above half, as a gas tank below half full may be prone to water vapour build up and freezing. Have your gas station attendant add “gas line antifreeze” when you fill up to prevent troubles starting your car in the winter time. Keep all kinds of antifreeze away from your children and pets, as they are poisonous.
Be aware of the age of your vehicle battery. Batteries have an average lifetime warranty OR a number of “cold weather starts.” The purchase of a battery blanket and / or a trickle charger may keep you and your vehicle running during severe cold weather.
Cold weather: wear the right footwear – warm boots rated for the cold weather
Stock a spare set of battery cables in your car so that you may lend a hand and be a cold weather angel. It just may be that even if your car has been reliable in cold weather, that your vehicle may be the one surprising you and require a winter boost.
If you are stuck and stranded remember:
Stay in your vehicle, and remain calm.
Conserve your energy, and do not tire yourself out [ie do not strain yourself trying to push your vehicle out of a snow bank].
If your vehicle is running, be aware of the gas levels, and run only as necessary.
Keep mindful of any snow build up around the car exhaust. If your car is stuck in a snow bank, and it is running then carbon monoxide poisoning can build up in the car interior if the exhaust if plugged with snow.
Move your fingers and toes regularly.
Check your vehicle’s emergency winter supplies.
In your vehicle emergency kit pack:
Battery booster cables for your own dead vehicle or to help another stranded family
Food that is good to eat at all times such as granola bars, raisins, dates, spirulina and hemp hearts. [Do not feed raisins nor dates to your pet]
Blankets are a must.
Spare medications.
Extra winter clothing and boots adequate for changing tires.
First aid kit for minor emergencies.
A small shovel or folding shovel in case you get stuck, and can dig your way out. Sand, road salt, or cat litter will help provide traction.
Spare cell phone charger.
A flashlight to shine to attract help and assistance.
A whistle to make noise for help.
Candles in a deep can along with matches.
A tow rope or chain.
Emergency signalling, flourescent tape, cones, beacon, flares etc.
A tarp or rain poncho and reflective foil double bubble foil insulation will help conserve body heat for longer times of winter stranding. The poncho or tarp will keep your body heat closer to you within the vehicle, or wrap around more than one person and / or pets to share warmth. The foil is lightweight, and packs in small rolls and will reflect your body heat back to you if you sit on it. Cuddle into your emergency blanket, then layer on the foil insulation then the tarp/rain poncho for heat conservation.
Keep yourself safe during times of extreme cold weather. Know what to do before you are out and away from home during times of severe wind chill warnings!
“I love the scents of winter! For me, it’s all about the feeling you get when you smell pumpkin spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, gingerbread and spruce.”–Taylor Swift
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SE 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063 Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)? with map
Please help protect / enhance your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail)
Support the afforestation areas with your donation or membership ($20.00/year). Please donate by paypal using the e-mail friendsafforestation AT gmail.com, or by using e-transfers Please and thank you! Your donation and membership is greatly appreciated. Members e-mail your contact information to be kept up to date!
“I believed that God has lent us the Earth. It belongs as much to those who come after us as to us, and it ill behooves us by anything we do or neglect, to deprive them of benefits which are in our power to bequeath.” Richard St. Barbe Baker
“The science of forestry arose from the recognition of a universal need. It embodies the spirit of service to mankind in attempting to provide a means of supplying forever a necessity of life and, in addition, ministering to man’s aesthetic tastes and recreational interests. Besides, the spiritual side of human nature needs the refreshing inspiration which comes from trees and woodlands. If a nation saves its trees, the trees will save the nation. And nations as well as tribes may be brought together in this great movement, based on the ideal of beautifying the world by the cultivation of one of God’s loveliest creatures – the tree.” ~ Richard St. Barbe Baker.
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area and West Swale Wetlands in the fog
The Aug. 15, 1933 newspaper covered the story; Three city children drown in river. “Young girls die trying to save 6-year old boy. Janet Derkson, 14, Rita Hope, 10 and brother Jimmy, lose lives at Sutherland Beach; Raymond Gracewood attempts rescue.” The three children three children from two families were residents who lived in the old University Heights area (south of the CPR, in what is now Innovation Place) according to Jeff O’Brien at City archives.
The children were very used to the route, having walked on the shore trails with the father of Reta and Jimmy Hope quite often. At this time, the youth went out on their own, and went into the river water at a different location. The youngest, Jimmy was caught up in a pothole from which he could not get out. His sister, Reta went to his rescue, and was also trapped. Hearing their calls, Raymond Gracewood swam out and grabbed hold of both children. Jimmy and Reta spied Janet Derkson, also coming to help them out, and pulled away from Raymond’s grasp to reach out to Janet. Though Janet tried her best to swim out to them, she sank. This happened during the summer months, Janet Derkson was to start grade 6 that fall, Reta Hope to begin grade 5, her little brother was to start school in September.
Though all the children were originally buried at Woodlawn Cemetery in an unmarked pauper’s grave. There was a huge public outcry, upon which the city donated a regular plot and the Rotary Club purchased a headstone. The family held a vigil a few years ago, and re-dedicated the memorial.
In June of 2001, another tragedy took the life of a six year old boy who fell into the cold spring waters off the Victoria Park river dock. June 2016, saw two eight year old boys narrowly escape tragedy. The mother of one of the lads, jumped in to his rescue, and downstream, a fisherman, swam out to the rescue of the other carried away by the river.
Traveling to this year, the Saskatoon Services Fire Department were called out 13 times for rescues at the South Saskatchewan River, impressing the need to be careful around the river in both winter and summer seasons.
Though the fatalities mentioned here were children, the majority of drownings in Saskatchewan were aged 20-24 and those between 70-74. 13% of our young adult population aged 20-24 have fallen to tragic ends drowning, which works out to about 3.5 young adults out of 100,000. Water bodies such as lakes, rivers and streams take the largest numbers of victims. Young children loose their lives most commonly in pools, and bathtubs. Though lives are lost all year around, most drownings occur June July and August partaking in swimming, fishing, water activities, boating or snowmobiling.
Bylaw No. 4433 is a “bylaw of The City of Saskatoon to prohibit swimming in the South Saskatchewan River and to require water skiers to wear life jackets.” The South Saskatchewan River is subject to a strong current, fluctuating water levels, and shifting sand bars. Though there is no bylaw against wading the shallow waters of the shoreline, it is very important to be aware the river is cut by deep, fast flowing channels. These channels can readily be seen only from the high river banks with a clear sight to the river waters. Therefore, wading in the river and getting into deep waters, the same dangers will be present as for swimmers. Sandbars, provide a false sense of security, as the swiftly flowing waters can create unstable shoreline edges of the sandbar creating risk.
An ambulance paramedic stated that, “The banks become very unstable when we have lots of water moving through. All you need is for that undercurrent to grab hold of the bank, and …down your’e going to go, into the river…and that may not be a very pleasant situation for anybody.”
Lifeline states that “it is a misconception that you’re safe if you’re larger than a body of water. You can drown in just a couple of inches of water.” “Most drownings are preventable.”
Whenever you, your family, your pet are taking in the water, take care, and be cautious of the South Saskatchewan River. Saskatchewan, the provincial title honours the Cree word kisiskâciwan, describing the “fast-flowing” Saskatchewan River or the “Swift Current” of the river. Around wetlands, or any depth of water, be cautious.
“When the trees go, the rain goes, the climate deteriorates, the water table sinks, the land erodes and desert conditions soon appear”.~Richard St. Barbe Baker
They recognize that while knowledge about nature is vital; passion is the long-distance fuel for the struggle to save what is left of our natural heritage and ~ through an emerging green urbanism ~ to reconstitute lost land and water. Passion does not arrive on videotape or on a CD; passion is personal. Passion is lifted from the earth itself by the muddy hands of the young; it travels along grass-stained sleeves to the heart. If we are going to save environmentalism and the environment, we must also save an endangered indicator species: the child in nature. Louv. 2005. p. 158
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SW 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063 Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)? with map
Please help protect / enhance /commemorate your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail)
Support the afforestation areas with your donation or membership ($20.00/year). Please donate by paypal using the e-mail friendsafforestation AT gmail.com, or by using e-transfers Please and thank you! Your donation and membership is greatly appreciated. Members e-mail your contact information to be kept up to date!
The trees and vegetation, which cover the land surface of the Earth and delight the eye, are performing vital tasks incumbent upon the vegetable world in nature. Its presence is essential to earth as an organism. It is the first condition of all life; it it the ‘skin’ of the earth, for without it there can be no water, and therefore, no life.~Richard St. Barbe Baker
It is not a farce.…”To be whole. To be complete. Wildness reminds us what it means to be human, what we are connected to rather than what we are separate from.” ~Terry Tempest Williams
How much more deeply are we moved as we begin to appreciate the combined operations of the assembly of trees we call a forest.~Richard St. Barbe Baker
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana)
South West Off Leash Recreation Area. Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. Meewasin Valley Authority, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
A teeming life goes on in the forest without any of the problems that confront mankind in similar circumstances. There are no dustbins, no water-borne sewage, no town clerks or city councilors or armies of officials, with more and more rates to pay, no ever-growing burden of debt.
The forest solves its own sanitary problems by direct action while man evades them. The forest has been described as the perfect sanitarian, the supreme chemist. In its economy it perfectly combines Capitalism, Communism and Social Credit and instead of building up a burden of debt it stores up real wealth of the woods.~Richard St. Barbe Baker
Your pet may travel outdoors, and bring home ticks attached to them. If it is the beginning of the tick season, ie early spring around Easter, the ticks are small. These ticks will take a blood meal, drop off the host animal, and enlarge in size. Next time they attach to a host animal, it is probably a larger species, and again the now larger tick will take a blood meal. The tick will either stay on the host animal and breed, or drop off and begin again to find another host animal.
When a tick lays eggs, there are several thousands of eggs, which then hatch, and feed on the host animal. Or the eggs may drop off infesting the new locality.
One method to keep your home and yard safer is to sprinkle diatomaceous earth (de). “Diatomaceous earth is composed of tiny organisms known as diatoms which have the ability to lacerate the exoskeletons of various types of insects and kill them through dehydration.How” “Make sure you buy food grade diatomaceous earth, NOT the pool filter grade which is heat and chemically treated and is TOXIC if ingested.Food” Food grade de is non toxic to humans and pets. One way to subvert a tick infestation in your living environment. Within 2-3 weeks the tick problem should be eradicated at your home. In this era of climate warming, and phenology changes be knowledgeable in the application of diatomaceous earth outside as it effects a number of insects. Use of diatomaceous earth outdoors is defeated with a rain storm, and a re-application is needed.
Sprinkling your shoes, socks and pants with diatomaceous earth is another way to protect yourself from ticks. Likewise sprinkling your pets will serve to be a natural tick repellent, it will dry out their skin also, so apply it in a fine layer only using an applicator such as a salt or sugar shaker filled with diatomaceous earth. “Diatomaceous Earth is very useful as a detox solution, digestive aid and colon cleanser. For dogs, use one tablespoon per day of food grade Diatomaceous Earth in his food for dogs over 55 lbs. and one teaspoon per day for small dogs and puppies.benefits For the human diet diatomaceous earth “(1) helps move things out of your intestines and (2) helps promote healthier hair, skin, bones, and joints.” The silica content in diatomaceous earth will help the body absorb calcium, and enrich skin collagen, bones, nails and hair. For pets and their owners, diatomaceous earth has been recommended for colon cleansing, parasite control, and as a form of detox.
“You should treat your dog’s bedding with diatomaceous earth twice a week, leaving it for about 3 days. Repeat this process whenever your dog spends time in the woods, tall grasses, or around rodents. Insect infestations are usually eradicted in 2-3 weeks.
One possible reason for tick population surge, is phenology. Insect life cycles react to “degree days” local daily sun and moon cycles reacting with great rapidity to climate change and milder winters. Bird life cycles rely on the amount of available sunlight seen to change in seasonal monthly and earth rotational cycles. If migrating birds arrive in the northern hemisphere too late to feast on small grubs and insect larvae. It is known that bird migratory patterns are changing, so “bird migration, breeding, and nesting are timed every spring to coincide with the peak availability of critical food sources.<a href=”Wildlife.org” Until these phenological cycles balance, the populations of insects are on the rise, and populations of birds are declining. For those who are trying to control tick populations on acreages and large land areas, the Guineafowl or poultry may come in handy.
For people walking in long grass or in woodlands, a precaution is to carry a tweezer or “tick twister” on the walk and wear light coloured clothing, tucking pants into socks, and shirts into waistbands. The light coloured clothing helps to sight ticks on their slow journey upwards. Tucking in your clothing thus keeps the ticks on top of the clothing, and not underneath on your skin. People who are not using the non-toxic natural remedy of diatomaceous earth those folks can spray with an insect repellent containing deet. When you arrive home, pop into the shower, to wash off any ticks unseen and unspotted. Throw your clothing directly into the washing machine, so any undetected ticks do not end up infesting the household. Don’t wander around “blindly”, but arm yourself with a bit of knowledge to have a safe walk with your four-legged friend.
For your pet, fill up a child’s wading pool in your yard when the weather is warmer. Then go for a walk with your dog. When you arrive back home, the sun will have warmed the chilly water from the hose. It will be easier to pop your dog into the warmer water of the wading pool outdoors, and this quick bath may rid your pet of any ticks your eyes have missed. The slicking down of the fur in the water may also help to reveal the missed ticks.
Dogs which have been out and about in a tick area should be immediately checked for ticks when leaving the site. Using tweezers or a “tick-twister” remove the tick without placing a lot of pressure on the tick body. With tweezers, secure the tweezer ends at the tick mouth where the tick has entered the skin and pull straight up and out. To keep your pet safe, walk on mowed paths, dirt, asphalt, concrete or wooden walkways. Avoiding long grass and shrubbery will help your pets not arrive home with ticks.
Pets can also be treated with any number of over the counter “tick ointments and sprays.” Many products are applied to the back of the neck with an effectiveness of about 21 days, being strongest in efficacy at the beginning, and waning towards the end of the treatment cycle. These applications may help your dog from infestation, however on personal experience, attending to ticks on your pets with a tweezer or “tick twister” is the most effective method. Relying on tick products may still reveal tick eggs and fully mature ticks burrowed into your pet even with tick applications. Tick ointments also become diluted and less effective when your pet gets wet, ie a dog shower or bath, or an outdoor swim. However, don’t reapply tick applications without your vet’s knowledge, as the dog’s immune system can usually handle one application every 21 days, as the application is mildly toxic to your pets as well as containing poisonouse substances to the tick.
If you are bitten, record the date, keep the tick on hand in a sealed bottle and take a picture of it. Watch for a “bull’s eye” rash, one of the early warning signs for Lyme disease. With early medical intervention, serious bodily reaction to the tick bite can be averted.
In Saskatoon, food grade diatomaceous earth can be purchased from a store such as Early’s seed and feed. Be safe, arm yourself with knowledge. If you walk in the grasslands or in the woods where ticks may be present, take precautions for yourself and your pet.
We stand in awe and wonder at the beauty of a single tree. Tall and graceful it stands, yet robust and sinewy with spreading arms decked with foliage that changes through the seasons, hour by hour, moment by moment as shadows pass or sunshine dapples the leaves. How much more deeply are we moved as we begin to appreciate the combined operations of the assembly of trees we call a forest.~Richard St. Barbe Baker
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. 52° 06′ 106° 45′
Addresses:
Part SE 23-36-6 – Afforestation Area – 241 Township Road 362-A
Part SW 23-36-6 – SW Off-Leash Recreation Area (Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area ) – 355 Township Road 362-A
S ½ 22-36-6 Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area (West of SW OLRA) – 467 Township Road 362-A
NE 21-36-6 “George Genereux” Afforestation Area – 133 Range Road 3063 Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area
Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map Where is the George Genereux Urban Regional Park (Afforestation Area)? with map
Please help protect / enhance /commemorate your afforestation areas, please contact the Friends of the Saskatoon Afforestation Areas Inc. (e-mail)
Support the afforestation areas with your donation or membership ($20.00/year). Please donate by paypal using the e-mail friendsafforestation AT gmail.com, or by using e-transfers Please and thank you! Your donation and membership is greatly appreciated. Members e-mail your contact information to be kept up to date!
The trees and vegetation, which cover the land surface of the Earth and delight the eye, are performing vital tasks incumbent upon the vegetable world in nature. Its presence is essential to earth as an organism. It is the first condition of all life; it it the ‘skin’ of the earth, for without it there can be no water, and therefore, no life.~Richard St. Barbe Baker
It is not a farce.…”To be whole. To be complete. Wildness reminds us what it means to be human, what we are connected to rather than what we are separate from.” ~Terry Tempest Williams
Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area. George Genereux Urban Regional Park. 