Grace M. Drake
I have a PhD. in Physical Anthropology and a Certificate in Environmental Impact Assessment. I have over twenty years experience working in environmental protection and public health, in both the U.S. and Europe. I am also a mother, a dog person, and an avid (if untalented) equestrian.
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Displaying Results 1 - 38 (of 38) for All Content
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FDA Advises Pet Owners on the Use of NSAIDs in DogsJust like people, older dogs often develop arthritis and may be prescribed a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID, to relieve symptoms. The FDA has published information to help pet owners recognize any harmful side effects that may occur.
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What is the Research Works Act, and Why Should You Care?Scientists bitterly oppose legislation to protect the profits of academic publishing companies. The Research Works Act would reverse current policy, which requires free access to papers published on work funded by taxpayers.
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How Normal Gut Bacteria Help Prevent AllergiesThe normal human gut is home to trillions of beneficial bacteria, which inhabit our intestines without triggering an immune reaction. A critical lack of these bacteria may contribute to allergic reactions such as asthma and eczema.
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Equine Product Review: Wintec Pro Dressage Saddle With ContourblocThe Wintec Pro Dressage saddle is a synthetic saddle using Wintec’s changeable gullet system. Thanks to SmartPak’s test ride program, you can try the Wintec Pro Dressage saddle with Contourbloc and see how it works for both you and your horse.
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Equine Product Review: River Plantation Trail Saddle by TuckerThe Tucker River Plantation Trail saddle is for riders who want a relatively lightweight Western-type saddle without a horn. This saddle is a popular choice for gaited horses, though it suits other types of horses. It features a narrow twist and deep seat
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Canine Coprophagia: What Do You Do If Your Dog Eats Poop?Once a dog has a habit of eating his own feces, it can be a very difficult behavior to stop. You can, however, take some simple steps to control the situation and prevent coprophagia from occurring.
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Golden Gate National Recreation Area Releases Comments on Draft Dog Management PlanGGNRA has released a full compilation of the comments received on the Draft Dog Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement. Next steps for GGNRA include summarizing the comments, revising the draft, and eventually implementing a final policy. -
Proposed Bill Would Limit Human Exposure to Endocrine-Disrupting ChemicalsOn July 13, 2011, Senator John Kerry and Congressman Jim Moran introduced a legislative proposal that would support study and evaluation of endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Chemicals found to harmful to human health could be banned. -
What Mourning Doves Taught Me About MotherhoodWhen a pair of Mourning Doves took over my balcony as their nursery, I learned about the joys and frustrations of parenthood. -
Lush Spring Grass Can Be Hazardous to Your Horse's HealthA horse's favorite thing in the entire world has to be the tender new grass of spring. Unfortunately, unrestricted grazing can lead to serious health problems. As a horse owner, your job is to manage your horse's diet and watch for warning symptoms. -
Make Your Own Cleaning Products to Save Money and the EnvironmentMaking your own cleaning products out of a few basic ingredients is good for the environment and will save you money. For most cleaning jobs, these homemade cleaners are not only nontoxic and cheap, they work better than commercial products. -
Is the Russian Government Behind Recent Denial of Service Attacks on Social Media?DDoS attacks on the LiveJournal social network site may have been initiated by the Russian government. LiveJournal is owned by the Russian company SUP, and its Cyrillic section has become very popular with Russian political activists. -
Keeping Your Home and Family Safe in Earthquake CountryPreparing for an earthquake disaster starts with understanding the risks in your area. If your home needs retrofitting, don't put it off. Have emergency supplies ready, starting with stored drinking water.
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Why is Estrogen in Our Waterways?Estrogens and endocrine disrupting chemicals in waste water cause abnormalities in fish and raise concerns for human safety. Where do these chemicals come from and how can we keep them out of our drinking water? -
How Does the Food and Drug Administration Regulate Personal Care Products?We tend to take for granted that personal grooming products have been evaluated for safety by the FDA before they can be sold. Depending on the type of product, scrutiny may be close, or else not so much. -
My Favorite Day Trip in San FranciscoA visit to San Francisco's Lands End and Cliff House area is a wonderful day out to spend with visitors to the area. The views are spectacular, and there is good food to be had once you've worked up an appetite hiking around. -
My Resolutions for Earth Day 2011Earth Day is a good time to make resolutions for reducing your impact on the environment. Resolutions can be as simple as buying and using reusable shopping bags, or unplugging electronics when they're not in use. -
How Reducing Our Carbon Footprint Helps Us Save Money, Get Fit, and Improve Our Quality of LifeReducing your carbon footprint may require making changes, but it doesn't require sacrifice. Many changes you can make to help the environment will also save you money and help you get fit. -
How to Solve Compatibility Issues Between Windows 7, 64 Bit Version, and Older PeripheralsUpgrading to Windows 7, 64 bit, can extend the usefulness of an older PC. The downside is that older peripherals aren't always readily compatible. These tips should help you get your older printer, scanner, and Palm device working smoothly. -
Review of Online Flower Seller: California Organic FlowersCalifornia Organic Flowers sells certified organic flowers, online with next-day deliveries. Your gift will be beautiful and your conscience will be clear of any worries about pesticide use or unfair labor practices.
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Is Horse Manure on Trails a Risk to Human Health?While horse manure encountered on the trails may not be an attractive sight, it does not pose any significant health risk to people coming across it.
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Legislation Introduced to Help Camp Lejeune Veterans and Family Members Harmed by Chemicals in Their Drinking WaterService members and their families living on base at Camp Lejeune from the 1950s through the 1980s were exposed to high levels of toxins in their drinking water. Many have suffered and are suffering serious health effects. Help may be on the way.
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Can Sleeping with Your Pet Make You Sick?New research suggests that sleeping with your pets can expose you to a variety of serious diseases. Extreme examples include meningitis and plague. Attention to hygiene and good pet care should protect the pet owner.Also published on:
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Is Your Home Vulnerable to Mudslides?If you live in a hilly area with heavy seasonal rains, you need to be aware of the potential for mudslides. Learn about the specific risks for mud and debris flows in your area, and prepare accordingly.
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Chemicals in Pregnant WomenPotentially harmful chemicals were found to be present in nearly all pregnant women sampled in a new study. These included banned chemicals such as DDT and chemicals currently in use such as bisphenol A.
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Golden Gate National Recreation Area Releases Draft Dog Management PlanThe Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) has released a Draft Dog Management Plan for GGNRA lands in the San Francisco Bay Area. Public comment is invited until April 14, 2011.
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Pet Product Review: Ruff Wear Webmaster Harness for DogsDog harnesses made by the Ruff Wear company are designed for dogs who participate in adventure sports or search and rescue operations. These harnesses are also ideal for helping injured or senior pets with mobility problems.
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Not Just Chapped Lips: "Angular Chelitis" or "Perleche"Persistent sores in the corners of your mouth may be a condition called "angular chelitis" or "perleche". These tiny wounds are infected with bacteria or fungus and must be treated with more than lip balm.
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Why Do We Prefer Some Flavors and Avoid Others?The five basic tastes of sweet, salt, sour, bitter, and umami serve as either a promise of nutrient value or a warning of possible harm. So how can food flavor preferences vary so much between individuals and cultures?
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January is National Birth Defects Prevention MonthThe National Birth Defects Prevention Network is providing educational materials suitable for health professionals as well as expectant mothers. Their theme for 2011 is preventing reproductive harm from medications.
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2011: The International Year of ChemistryThe UN has designated 2011 as the International Year of Chemistry (IYC). IYC will be a year-long celebration of chemistry focused on community participation and educational events.
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The "CinemaLit Film Series" at the Mechanics' Institute in San FranciscoThe "CinemaLit Film Series" is a regular event of the Mechanics' Institute in San Francisco. The series showcases the Institute's film collection, and features a different theme every month.
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My 2011 Diet for HappinessSticking to a diet means creating a personalized eating plan that makes me happy as well as healthy. I want it to be based on foods that are local to my area, that are fresh and natural, and that remind me of happy times in my life.
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Sharing The Trails: Horses, Mountain Bikes, HikersMany trails are designated for multi-use and are open to hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Remembering a few simple tips can prevent conflicts between users and help everyone have a safe and fun time out on the trails.
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How To Tempt Your Dog's AppetiteAfter you've been to the veterinarian and you know why your dog is refusing to eat, try these suggestions for stimulating his interest in food.
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Ten Tips for Keeping a Horse Without Going BrokeHorses are frequently available for free or for a very low price, but caring for them properly can be costly. A basic checklist of expenses and a plan for meeting them should be worked out before you bring your new horse home.
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The Royal Society Celebrates 350 Years of Scientific ExcellenceNov. 30, 2010, marks the 350th anniversary of the Royal Society. Members of the Royal Society are elected for their scientific achievements, and have included such famous figures as Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and Albert Einstein.
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Brewers Beware! Hops Poisoning in DogsThe hops used in brewing beer are highly poisonous to dogs. If you think your dog may have eaten hops, or brewing waste containing hops, seek immediate veterinary care. If you brew, keep your hops and brewing waste where no dogs can get into it.














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