Problem: Article: Put on some rubber or latex gloves to protect your hands. Turn the bottle of dye upside down and shake it. Also stir the mixture to loosen any of the pigment that has settled to the bottom of the bottle. Pour the dye into a disposable container.  Always read the instructions that come with the dye. If you are creating an intermediate color, go ahead and mix the dyes at this time. The basic rules of color mixing apply to leather dyes as well. For example, yellow and blue can be mixed to make green.  You can dilute the dye with water to adjust the color. Play around with the water-to-dye ratio and test the color on swatches before you apply the dye to your boots. Use a sponge brush, paint brush, or cloth to apply the dye to your boots. Apply a thin coat of the dye using long,even strokes in the same direction (e.g. vertical or horizontal). Allow the dye to dry for 30 minutes, and then apply a second coat.  Some dyes will come with an application brush. However, use whatever tool is most comfortable for you. If you are not satisfied with the color after the second coat, you can apply a third coat. Always allow the coat to dry for 30 minutes each time. If you apply your first coat using horizontal brushes, apply the second coat using vertical brushes. This will ensure an even application of the dye. Consider using a small paintbrush for fine details and hard to reach areas, such as the spot where the sole and the heel meet the leather. Test a small area before you apply the dye to your entire boot. Dyes work best if you are going from a lighter to a darker color. If you are making a drastic color change, use an intermediate color to achieve better results. The first color you use will neutralize the original color on your boots. Then follow up that color with your desired final color.  If you are going from white to black, dye the shoes green or blue first and finish with black. If you are going from white to brown, dye the shoes light green first and finish with brown. If you are going from red to black, dye the shoes green first and finish with black. If you are going from white to a bright red, dye your shoes yellow first and then red. If you are going from white to dark red, dye your shoes tan and then dark red. If you dye your shoes yellow, dye your shoes white before you apply the yellow dye.  Always allow the dye to dry completely before you apply the next color.
Summary: Mix the dye. Apply the dye. Use an intermediate color if necessary.

Problem: Article: Twice a day, you should clean the pierced area using sterile cotton swabs dipped in warm water or a saline solution. Dabbing the pierced area should be enough, but be sure to remove any crusty formations on the jewelry. When you are finished, pat the area dry with a paper towel, clean tissue, or dry cotton ball. Be careful not to use towels, as they can snag.  To make your own saline solution, rather than buying it, dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt in one cup of lukewarm water. Remember to use different cotton balls or swabs when cleaning the parts of your jewelry inside and outside of your nose. Avoid strong substances such as tea tree oil, alcohol, betadine, hydrogen peroxide, and methylated spirits. These can lead to scars, lumps, and other irritations. Sometimes you may want to clean just the jewelry, especially if it is getting a little dull. Once you remove it, use a soft brush with warm water and a little antibacterial soap.  In general, avoid using cleaning products and chlorine. They can damage many of the materials used in jewelry. Talk to your piercer about what your jewelry is made of, and good cleaning products for different materials. You don’t want your nose jewelry to sit out the open when you aren’t wearing it. It is small, and easy to lose if you aren’t careful. A small soft pouch for your different pieces should be enough to keep it secure and in an easy-to-find place. If you have multiple nose rings, consider storing them in a weekly pill organizer. The compartments are the perfect size for most nose rings! One good way to keep your nose piercing healthy is to live a clean life. In particular, keep an eye on things that are near your face. Washing towels and bedding at least once a week, especially pillowcases and washcloths. Clean glasses and sunglasses as well.  Remember to eat a good diet and get plenty of sleep. This will help your piercing heal faster. Avoid things that put additional pressure on your body, like drugs, alcohol, nicotine, and stress. If you need to remove your jewelry for something like surgery, sports, or your job, talk to your piercer about temporary, non-metallic alternatives. That way, you’ll be able to keep something in the hole while not getting in the way of whatever else you need to do. Just remember not to take anything out until you talk to your piercer. Your hole may close up before either of you has a chance to do anything.
Summary: Clean the area around your piercing. Clean your jewelry after taking it out. Store your jewelry properly. Keep your home clean. Talk to your piercer about alternatives.

Problem: Article: Most people with pet dogs chose to keep them in the house with the family. If you do keep your dog outside, provide an insulated dog house, warm bedding for cold climates, shade for warm climates, food, and water (that won't freeze or stagnate). Never chain your dog, since this could cause leg or neck injuries. Don't keep your dog outside if he hasn't acclimated to weather extremes. It is considered negligence to keep a dog outside without proper shelter. If you can't shelter your dog correctly, keep him inside or don't get a dog in the first place. Depending on your dog’s breed, this could be anything from a 10-15 minute walk per day to a good hour romp in the park. A fun game of fetch or Frisbee can also be physically challenging to very active dogs. Playing or walking is a great chance for you to bond with your dog. Exercise and playing can cut back on bad behavior, like tearing things up around the house, inappropriate chewing, and aggression. It will also keep your dog’s weight down and his body healthy. Once he's gotten all his important first vaccinations, socialize him. This means carefully introducing him to people, other animals and dogs, and situations outside the immediate home environment. Getting used to riding in the car, walking around the neighborhood and dog parks are great ways to introduce him to people and other dogs. As long as the dog isn’t scared or threatened he will get used to these situations. The more unique social situations you expose your dog to when he's young, the better.
Summary:
Offer your dog shelter. Get your dog plenty of exercise. Socialize your dog.