In the 21st century, images for advertisements are used everywhere and because of this, it can get confusing to know how to use someone else’s image for content creation. What is the difference between commercial copyright and editorial copyright? When do we need to ask for permission to use an image?

Content that is commercially licensed is used specifically for advertising and marketing. Permission is always required from the photographer and recognizable subjects. Content that is editorialized does not require permission because it is made for public use, however, it cannot be used to advertise.

To learn more about commercial versus editorial image licenses and the details of copyright explained in simple terms, continue reading!

The basics

Commercial and editorial images go a little further than general copyright laws. Copyright gives the rights of the image directly to the photographer, however, commercial and editorial images have specific requirements that must be met in order to be used legally.

So, why are there so many rules?

In our busy world, we want to make sure the original creators receive the proper credit for their work. Annoying? Probably. Ethical to the original creator? Most likely.

For creating content, there are situations where it is not feasible to shoot or use your own photos, especially when writing or directing other kinds of media. Commercial and editorial image laws give that freedom to specific media creators such as advertisers, blog writers and editors.

While there are specific restrictions set in place, this is the way our government can make sure photos are published and used fairly. Here is an easy-to-read guide on navigating how to use a photo legally for content creators of any kind. It can be complex, so take a deep breath, get some water, and let’s get started!

What are commercial images?

Commercial images are photos, clips, or illustrations that require permission in order to be used in any circumstance.

But it’s not just the original creator that you need permission from; permission is required from the property owners, artists, and any recognizable models in the image. There are also other restrictions such as what location the image was taken in.

If there are so many people to go through in order to use a commercial image, why would you want to use it in the first place?

To start, companies will usually buy a subscription from a commercial imaging website. This is because that website has already gone through the proper attribution process, so using another person’s image is not a problem.

Commercial images are meant to be used for advertising and marketing purposes only and are higher in quality. This includes websites, blog posts like this one, online advertisements, billboards, television, or streaming commercials. You cannot use an editorial or fair use image for advertising, but the public domain and commercial images can be. That is why sometimes commercial images are needed and we need to understand how the laws work. We will explain editorial, public domain, and fair use more in depth later on. (Source)

As I said earlier, there are specific requirements for commercial images.

Requirements for commercial image use

1. Permission is needed from any recognizable person in the photo.
   • You must sign a model release form to use that image. (Source)
2. Permission is needed from property owners of the location the photo was taken in.
   • You must sign a property release form to use that image. (Source)
3. No logos, trademarks, or other company names can be in the photo.
   • No other advertisements or clear logos can be used in the image, even with proper attribution. (Source)
4. No intellectual property in the photo.
   • No landmarks created after 1900, iconic products, architecture, illustrations of copyrighted characters, or zoomed-in text in a commercial image, even with proper attribution. (Source)

After commercial image requirements are met, there is another loophole you need to jump through.

There are specific kinds of licenses that need to be purchased depending on what you are using your image for. Once this lease is signed, you can only use the image for what is stated for in the document. This is called a ‘usage license’ and there are three kinds to choose from.

License types

1. Nonexclusive license: An image that can be sold through commercial licensing vendors, buyers, or yourself. This is typically used by advertisements.
2. Exclusive license: An image that has never been licensed commercially before and the client can use it exclusively. This is typically used by photographers. (Source)
3. Unrestricted license: No restrictions for what the image can be used for. (Source)

What are editorial images?

In the simplest terms, editorial images are the opposite of commercial images.

Editorial images are not to be used for advertising purposes and it can contain other logos, recognizable people, and iconic places. These images are typically used for news outlets such as The New York Times, The British Broadcasting Company, The Washington Post – you name it!

Editorial images are meant to illustrate and add context to journalistic articles, online resources and additional print publications such as textbooks. Fashion photography is a subcategory of editorial images because it assists a story for publication by showing the work of an artist.

Requirements for editorial image content

1. Check your company’s rules.
   • Some companies have varying rules. For example, Shutterstock does not allow posed or directed subjects for editorial images. In other words, the photograph must be candid. While other types of media such as fashion magazines need posed photography to assist their articles.
2. Must document a newsworthy event.
   • As mentioned before, editorial images are meant to provide context or illustration, not advertising. Remember, think of it as the opposite of commercial images.
3. No major alterations to the image.
   • Acceptable adjustments are copping, exposure, and black-and-white conversions. It must remain in the original spirit of the photograph. Again, double-check on the project being worked on for your company, but typically, editorial images are made to document “candid” and “real” life, unlike a saturated advertisement.
4. Proper location, description, and date attributions must be set in place.
   • Just because editorial images can be used under the proper licensing unlike commercial images, this does not mean that the image shouldn’t be attributed properly through photo and location credit. It is usually a necessary requirement to do so for journalists.

What is image copyright?

Now that we understand the difference between commercial and editorial image use, we can jump into what image copyright is. After all, that’s what commercial and editorial images depend on!

So, why is image and media copyright so important? What even is copyright?

The basics are this: when a photographer takes a picture, they own that image because it is their work. Therefore, no paperwork is required for the photographer to have the image copyrighted because it is an immediate and inherent right in the United States of America.

For a little bit of a history lesson, the first United States copyright law was actually enacted on May 31st 1790. It was a part of one of the first revisions of the Constitution, article one, section eight. (Source)

Moving back into the 21st century and focusing specifically on image use, a copyright transfer agreement has to be signed between the photographer and the client who wants to use the image. Without this agreement or (licenses such as commercial use or editorial use), you cannot use another artist’s photograph without permission because it is someone else’s work. In terms of legality, this would be a form of stealing.

The logic behind image copyright is not to make it almost impossible to create content for the modern advertiser, but to credit the art to the artist. Copyright intends to give freedom and protection for the original owner’s work. If a client purchases the copyright but does not purchase an exclusive use license, the photographer can still legally use their images wherever they want, even with competing advertisers. Because of this, companies that are taking their marketing campaigns seriously will usually purchase an exclusive license. (Source)

However, there are a few exceptions to copyright or exclusive licenses.

Public domain

Public domain is a type of image license that can be used freely and without permission from the original owner. It is not protected by copyright law because this image is now owned by the public. Because of this license, one can call it their own work. You can attribute the original creator if it is known, however, this step is not necessary.

Public domain qualifications

1. The copyright expired.
   • One of the most common reasons an image can become public domain is that the copyright expired. The copyright license for an image lasts for 70 years plus the lifetime of the original owner. If the lifetime of the owner is known, the copyright lasts 95 years after its first publication or 120 years after the creation, but whatever comes sooner is applied first. Factors such as if the work was published anonymously or not also apply. There are also different copyright protection depending on the type of media, but this applies specifically to images. (Source)
2. The copyright owner did not follow copyright renewal standards
   • Media works that were published in the United States before 1964 have now become public domain as mentioned before. You can renew your copyright during the 28th year after publication, but if this deadline is missed, this means a loss of copyright. Additionally, any pieces of work created on or after the first day of 1978 cannot be renewed for copyright protection. Companies, such as Disney, have a legal team that is on top of these kinds of issues if they want characters or images, not in the public domain. (Source)
3. The copyright owner decides to dedicate the image to the public domain.
   • If the image is specifically stated as “dedicated to the public domain” then it is free to use. As mentioned before, no attribution is required and can be sold regardless of the owner. Some authors don’t even put their names with their work intentionally. An example of dedicated images to the public domain is clip art.
4. Copyright law does not protect this kind of media.
   • Copyright law always can protect image use, so this last qualification does not apply. This public domain qualification does not protect short phrases, facts, and theories. (Source)

Fair Use

Another exception to copyright is fair use. Fair use means that the client has a limited range of authority for the copyrighted images of a photographer. Fair use technically gives you permission to infringe on someone’s copyright. However, the line between fair use and infringement is very thin, so make sure to do your research before contributing to fair use. This type of image protection is typically used for educational and critiquing purposes.

If you ask for permission to use a photograph and the creator says no, there still may be a loophole through fair use. As stated before (because this is important), always double-check the legality when using another person’s image. Sometimes you can use a photo when you think you can’t, or your post will be taken down when you think it’s ok. It is a crazy world in terms of legality and it is better to be safe than sorry! (Source)

So what should I know?

If you take away anything from this article, take this: Commercial images are used for advertising purposes only and editorial images are used for general media outlets only, not advertising.

Each type of image has specific restrictions for its users so make sure to go through the correct processes to avoid having your media taken down. Nothing is more frustrating than putting your heart and soul into a piece just to have it be infringement. Also, remember that any image that is taken is covered automatically by copyright, this applies to your work too! If it is unclear that the image is under commercial use, editorial use, fair use, or public domain, then assume it’s copyrighted and permission of some kind is needed.

In the end, it is always safe to go through a purchased license, or website, or take your own images. If you are a content creator and still confused about the ins and outs of copyright, then it might be time to take out your camera and learn a bit about design!

Website Link

Wood burning is the art of using a heated tool to create designs on wood pieces. Its art can be simple or advanced, but is wood burning really as complex as it looks? Is wood burning a hard hobby to learn?

Wood burning, also known as pyrography, is not a hard activity to learn. The tools needed are easy and inexpensive to acquire and stencils can be purchased online to assist the artistic process. The best way to advance the skills needed in pyrography is to give it a try and get used to the tools.

Now that we understand that there is nothing to be afraid of in wood burning, how is it done? Continue reading to learn more about beginner tips and techniques for wood burning.

What Do I Need for Wood Burning?

Let me give you a quick answer for the tools needed, and then I will go more in-depth.

Tools Required

1. Pieces of wood
2. A prepped work area
3. A heated tool
4. Lots of time

Wood burning is relatively simple, right? All you really need is a lot of small bits of wood, an area away from things that could be melted or burned, and a working heated tool with accessories you like.

Art is never that simple, but wood burning can be if you take it slow. Here I have a few tips and tricks that can help you learn a bit more about wood burning.

Types of Materials

You can use any kind of wood for pyrography, but some of the best options include pine, aspen, birch, basswood, and poplar. This is because these types of wood are soft, have minimal grain, and are lighter in color, which will make the burn marks show up a little better than if you used dark wood. (Source)

We recommend basswood sheets because they are inexpensive and provide a large yet clean canvas for beginner wood burners. Prices range from 5 to 40 dollars, but we recommend buying a 12-pack like this one.

You can use other kinds of materials too! You can use leather, cork, paper, cotton, bark, canvas, bone, and antler. (Source)

A good idea when starting out with wood burning is not to have only one small section of wood to work with. Especially if you’re learning, it is near impossible to get it “perfect” on the first try. If that is the goal, you can print out a stencil online or purchase a book with images that fits the size of the material you are using by tracing the image.

We recommend looking into purchasing the Pyrography Workbook by Sue Walters. She explains how to transfer your drawings into your materials, necessities for the workspace, how to prepare wood, how to use color in your pieces, and ways to transfer your drawings onto materials other than wood.

Heated Tools

It can be hard to manipulate your heated tool on such a hard surface. Because of this, it is a good idea to invest in a tool that fits your art style and needs.

Prices for heated tools can range from 10 dollars to 400 dollars. With such a wide range, you have many options for starting this hobby. If you’re serious about pyrography, we recommend Amazon’s Burnmaster HAWK Single Port Woodburner package, although it is on the more expensive side.

It might be wise to purchase a wood burning pen that can switch tips, specifically wire-nib burners that allow you to replace the handle even when the tips are hot. This can be really helpful for the more complex art pieces. The more you practice, the more you get to learn your tools. It might be important to note that smaller wire gauge tips take longer to heat up. (Source)

Let’s look at the different kinds of accessories so that when you start your next project you know what you need!

Wire-Nib Tips

• Skew Tip: This tool is angled or slanted which allows the artist to use it for long lines or feathers.
• Spear Tip: This tool has a pointed edge and is helpful for getting into tight places or fine details on your art piece.
• Round Tip: This tool has a circular point which is great when you want only a little indentation on the wood or material.
• Chisel Tip: This tool is shaped like a box and is used for running quill lines.
• Ballpoint Tip: This tool has a tiny ball at the end which is good for calligraphy or writing motions.

Solid-Point Tips

• Universal/All-Purpose Tip: This tip is used for creating straight lines or outlines.
• Calligraphy Tip: This is a good option for curved lines or writing lines.
• Extra Fine Tip: This tool is used for details, straight lines, or light curves.
• Shading Tip: This tool is great for filling space or adding shadows.

Suggestions for Wood Burning

Now that you understand what you need to start wood burning, let me leave you with a final few tips.

First, know that softer wood burns faster, so you need to manage your time well when working with them. Tools that produce less heat are better used on softwoods such as basswood rather than hardwoods such as oak.

Next, use your heated tool in light and circular movements. Instead of putting a ton of pressure on your tool, using it lightly on a softwood will give you better results, especially when shading. Once you are sure of your shape, you can go back over and clarify your straight lines and outlines.

It is also suggested to sand your wood piece if it is not already smoothed out. You should also seal your wood so the stain will not bleed in nearby areas.

When you are using your heated tool, it is smart to go with the wood grain, especially if you are a beginner, because there will be less resistance and risk for burn injury.

Finally, understand that any mistakes made on your piece just add character to the piece! Nothing needs to be perfect, especially when wood burning is not forgiving of mistakes. It is all part of the art process!

Website Link

With education becoming increasingly accessible online, homeschooling is a more viable option for families compared to previous generations. If this is the case, what are the different types of homeschooling? Which one is the right fit for your family?

Continue reading below to learn more about the different types of homeschooling and what would be the best fit for your family.

Traditional Method

Traditional homeschooling is just like regular schooling, except in the comfort of your own home. The traditional method is a great start for parents who are trying to homeschool their children, as there is a strong online community and a variety of curriculums for homeschooled families. (Source)

• School at home
  • This is the most basic form of homeschooling and this method works by having a regular school day at home. Parents will often buy textbooks, desks, or other accessories to simulate a regular school setting. This method is the most efficient for parents who want to be the most involved and give a personalized education for their children.
• Online
  • The easiest and arguably best way to access traditional homeschooling is to do it online. This is because the information and classes are already set out, a great fit for parents with a busy schedule but who are not happy with local schools. However, the online method is best for high school students who have already had social experiences with in-person schooling.

Best fit for:

Families that appreciate the structure of traditional schooling but want more involvement or tutoring. Online homeschooling is a good option for older kids who are not wanting to attend in-person school and do not require as much involvement.

Unit Studies Method

A catch-all term for homeschooling, unit studies is a popular method because it encompasses all educational-based subjects. Studies even show that children who use unit study methods compared to traditional homeschooling retain 45% more information. (Source)

In ancient Greece, educators decided to break topics into subjects. The unit studies method works to break that stereotype and studies the topic in full. This means connecting a topic to the real world or other relatable subjects.

An example of using the unit studies method would be looking at a topic such as plants, which is traditionally considered a science subject. Here the teacher would look at the topic of plants and connect them to other subjects. Subjects can be plants as art (historical artwork), a hands-on activity (gardening), history (agriculture in Mesopotamia), theology (tree of life), language arts (metaphors describing plants as alive), and geography (best life to plant in your area).

The list can go on, but unit studies give power to the teacher by sharing their knowledge with the student. It gives power to the student because then the child can begin to see how everything is connected and the double meaning in all.

Best fit for:

Families that are starting homeschooling with young children. This method is a great way to help children remember concepts and see how the world is connected. By going through topics or units, your child and get a good grasp of what they need to learn, but still have the freedom to be inquisitive.

Eclectic Method

Eclectic homeschooling is a great mix of concepts that attract parents to homeschooling in the first place. Eclectic is extremely individual based, but unlike unschooling, eclectic schooling requires a personalized curriculum rather than none at all. (Source)

Classical

Eclectic classical homeschooling refers to incorporating classical or traditional methods of teaching with the flexibility of doing it at home and considering the child’s educational goals. Traditional methods of teaching are a flexible definition for homeschooling parents, but it generally means understanding classic literature, histories such as Ancient Egypt, cursive handwriting, or other culturally significant topics throughout history. (Source)

This style is a great fit for parents who know their child’s learning style best. This is done by picking out specific education goals and incorporating things that the student is interested in. This can be a combination of online or in-person. For example, a child can work on a hands-on project with their parent one day for a book report and complete web-based lessons for math.

Best fit for:

Families that want to focus on the child’s learning style and cultural topics that interest them. This can be a combination of online and in person. Think of eclectic homeschooling as a pick-and-choose method that fits the needs of your child.

Unschooling Method

Unschooling is an unconventional form of homeschooling where the child’s education is driven by their specific interests and curiosities. Unschoolers feel that a defined curriculum is unproductive and trust that children will learn what they need to through world experiences. (Source)

Unschooling is an active form of learning that is going on at all times, not just during specified hours of the day. Unschoolers trust in the experimentation process that is personalized to the student.

Because of Unschooling’s nature, it is important to check your state laws concerning homeschooling. In some states such as New York and Pennsylvania, parents need to keep a detailed portfolio that has a student’s projects, logs of field trips, books they have read and activities participated in.

Best fit for:

Families that are on the road and want to educate their children through the real-life experiences they encounter along the way. This type of schooling takes a lot of work because you are constantly researching answers to questions and not depending on a true curriculum. Double-check with state and country laws if you are living on the road.

Classical Method

Similar to the eclectic classical method, classical homeschooling focuses on traditional education topics. What makes the classical method different is that this homeschool teaching is through a Christian worldview. Common topics taught include grammar, diction, world history, Latin, science, and geometry. In short, classical homeschooling is very similar to the traditional method, but there is a heavier emphasis on Christian theology. (Source)

Classical stages

• Grammar stage
  • When young children start, students from 5 to 9 years old will memorize basic facts and focus on grammar. (Source)
  • It is about learning the English language and enjoying the process of memorization. (Source)
• Logic or dialectic stage
  • From ages 9 to 12, children complete comparing and contrast exercises. Students will begin to analyze concepts logically and reach out to other classical students for discussions.
• Rhetoric stage
  • Teenagers 13 years and older will synthesize facts and learn how to apply them to their lives. Students will learn how to debate and persuade.

The classical method focuses on traditional education topics. One such is Quadrivium, meaning the place of four roads. Those four topics are music, geometry, arithmetic, and astronomy.

Learning Latin is heavily emphasized for students. This is because the dead language will help students learn other languages quicker, appreciate history, appreciate culture, understand medical definitions easily, and understand scientific names. Understanding where the names come from will give the words a deeper meaning for students, according to the classical method.

Best fit for:

Families looking for a conservative and religious homeschool experience. The classical method is heavily based on a curriculum that can be completed in-person or online for older kids. It is also focused on debate, so this would be a good option for families wanting children with innovative minds.

Charlotte Mason Method

Born in 1842, Charlotte Mason was an author from England that paved the way for alternative teaching methods. In the mid-19th century, children were taught rigorous rules and perfect cursive. However, Mason challenged this perspective with her famous philosophy to educate the entire person of a child rather than specific aspects. (Source)

When someone says ‘Charlotte Mason’ in terms of homeschooling, they are referring to a method of thought or guidelines for homeschooling rather than a specific curriculum. Her methods include:

• Living books
  • Charlotte Mason believed in the power of literature, in which would educate the entire soul of a person, not just the academic aspects. Mason focused specifically on ‘living books’, which are typically written in narrative or story form and driven by passion. Book examples today include Charlotte’s Web, Little House on the Prairie, and Where the Red Fern Grows. (Source)
  • The goal is to have children choose what they read based on their own interests. In doing so, Mason believed that children will create their own appreciation for the written word, thus seeing learning as a hobby, not a chore. (Source)
• Varied lessons
  • When it comes to lesson length, Mason believed that should vary on the child’s age. The older your student gets, the longer and more complex the lessons should become. Despite the length, all lessons should be varied in topic to keep the interest of your student.
• Copywork
  • Copywork varies from the spiritual aspects of a child’s education. This means positive quotes, coping skills, and scripture study to fill the student’s mind with positive thoughts.
• Dictation
  • Like most school contains, Mason believed that dictation is an essential part of education. Dictation also includes spelling, sentence structure, grammar, and writing.
• Narration
  • One of the unique methods of Mason’s schooling was retelling what the child has learned. Under the age of 10, children would vocally explain to the teacher or parent what they had learned. After 10, students began to write down their thoughts.
  • This is extremely beneficial for social intelligence because this helps children be able to express how they are feeling emotionally and create new ideas educationally. (Source)
• Appreciation
  • The final staple of Mason’s work for children was to help them appreciate the beauty of the world around them. This includes nature, music, their cultural heritage, and art. Appreciation also includes spending time playing outdoors.

Best fit for:

Families that want to focus on fostering a child’s appreciation for education as well as articulation within the spoken and written word. These families may want to focus on classic literature, nature, and expression.

Waldorf Method

Created by Rudolf Steiner in the late 19th century, Waldorf homeschooling specializes in education that covers the mind, body, and spirit. Textbooks are only used when the children are older and it is necessary. Waldorf focuses a lot on morality and real-life experiences. (Source)

• Early childhood
  • Early education is focused on playing, creativity, hands-on learning, and being active. (Source)
• Elementary education
  • Once the student enters elementary school, that is when academic instruction is introduced. It is also encouraged to focus on emotion management, creativity, and imagination.
  • Art, music, gardening, and foreign language are key studies.
  • No textbooks or formal grades, but their progress is diligently charted.
• Secondary education
  • This is when students focus on critical thinking and analysis. It is encouraged to focus on free-thinking, empathy, and community service.

In terms of homeschooling, the Waldorf approach focuses less on academics and more on age-appropriate learning and increasing social intelligence. Curriculums are recommended, but most lessons are based on exploration. Waldorf also emphasizes focusing on one subject at a time, instead of multiple throughout the day.

Best fit for:

Families that want their children to learn through creativity, exploration, and empathy. Morality is a strong presence in the Waldorf method. It is an inexpensive method because a lot is learned through exploration and curriculums are in blocks of 3-6 weeks.

Montessori Method

Maria Montessori was an Italian doctor and teacher in the late 19th century who specialized in how a child learns best. Her work changed the education world and influences institutions to this day. (Source)

• mixed-age classrooms
• student collaboration
• hands-on learning
• active learning
• adult role model
• understanding, appreciating, and applying different learning styles
• freedom of choice
• guidance through emotional distress, positive thinking, and conflict resolution
• encourages students to have their own self-discipline and motivation
• find connections between core subjects such as math, history, language, and science
• creating a customized educational plan

When using the Montessori at home, these concepts remain relatively similar. The Montessori method is (like the Mason method) more of a philosophy than a specific curriculum to follow. But like a lot of other homeschooling methods that we have mentioned in this article, this method is very craft-friendly and hands-on.

Plant care is trendy, but if you’ve given it a shot, you know that plants are picky and need a specific kind of care. Luckily, there is a variety of plants that do well indoors. We have created a list based on three factors: the ability to improve air quality, endurance without water, and light needed. Once you find the right plant based on your environment, these will help you create that Pinterest-worthy home.

1. Golden Pothos

Native to the Solomon Islands, the Golden Pothos is one of the easiest houseplants to grow because of its endurance. The Golden Pothos botanical name is Epipremnum aureum and they are a vine plant type. Golden Pothos can grow 12 to 18 inches in a month, so be sure to keep them maintained by cutting unhealthy or excessive stems. The Golden Pothos can be easily propagated from a healthy stem placed in a water vase. After the roots have grown several inches long, it is ready to be planted in a pot. It is also important to note that Golden Pothos are toxic to pets and humans if eaten, but the Golden Pothos is included on NASA’s list of recommended plants for air purification. (Source)

2. Spider Plant

If you have pets or little ones, and plant toxicity is a concern, the spider plant is a great choice! The Spider Plant originates from multiple climates in Africa, so their adaptability makes them a great indoor house plant. The Spider Plant’s botanical name is Chlorophytum comosum and they are known for their greenery. Spider plants fare well in hanging pots, making them perfect for dorm rooms. They do best in bright indirect light and away from cold drafts. This plant is also on NASA’s recommended plant air purification list and in their study, the spider plant was able to remove approximately 90% of formaldehydes in the air. Formaldehydes are toxins that are naturally found in the home from construction materials or food. It can worsen allergies and cause rashes, so for health’s sake, the spider plant provides a safe home for all. (Source)

3. Aloe Vera

This succulent is more than just a decoration, Aloe Vera is known for its healing properties for sunburns and scrapes. However, Aloe Vera’s gel should only be used topically and are toxic if eaten by people or pets. Its botanical name is simply Aloe vera and this house plant does well on a window seal as it enjoys bright, indirect light. Artificial light is another great option if bright light is unavailable in your home. Water your Aloe Vera plant infrequently, but when you do, make sure the soil is very damp. This is a great starter plant because care is essential, but does not demand your attention daily.

4. ZZ Plant

Has every plant you’ve ever owned died miraculously or do you consider yourself a “brown thumb”? Then the ZZ Plant should be your next buy. Known for being an “indestructible” house plant that can handle neglect and low lighting, the ZZ Plant requires little water. Its botanical name is Zamioculcas zamiifolia, so many shorten its name to ZZ. It has the characteristics of Cacti so it is perfect for the beginner gardener. For this plant, less really is more! (Source)

5. Snake Plant

Not to be confused with the Spider plant, the Snake Plant one of, if not, the most oxygen-producing indoor plant. Its botanical name is Sansevieria trifasciata and they are easy to care for because they can live in low light conditions with little watering. Snake Plants are perfect for indoors because of how effective they are in improving air quality. They generally require low amounts of maintenance and absorb toxins and formaldehyde just like the Spider Plant. What makes these plants different is that the Snake Plant is better suited for a large pot placed on the floor. The Spider and Snake Plant are both great options, it simply depends on which decor you would like for your home. (Source)

6. Azalea

If you are looking for a flower to brighten your home, Azaleas are easy to care for, especially for shaded and cooler areas. Its botanical name is Rhododendron and it is important to note is that Azaleas are easily damaged by overwatering and desperately need proper drainage. If this does not happen, Azaleas will develop root rot diseases. While this may seem daunting at first, this is a great shallow-planted flower that teaches its caregiver the importance of proper watering and a shaded environment. (Source)

7. Majesty Palm

Majesty Palms are great for adding a tropical feel to a not-so-tropical home. Their botanical name is Ravenea rivularis and is indeed a tropical plant. Despite other tropical plants, Majesty Palms are low maintenance, resilient, and grow slowly. They can handle low light levels but do best in indirect light. Some misting from a spray bottle to maintain humidity should keep your palm plant happy. Majesty Palms are best suited in warmer conditions, so cold homes are not a great fit. (Source)

8. Rubber Plant

The Rubber Plant is a great addition as an indoor house plant. Their botanical name is ficus elastica and do best in bright, indirect sunlight with a well-drained pot. Rubber Plants do not need to be watered frequently and can grow to extreme heights. They are a tree plant type, but don’t let that intimidate you. With a bit of trimming and love, these little trees are a great addition to any apartment.

9. Boston Fern

Last but certainly not least, the Boston Fern is also known for its ability to purify the air. It’s botanical name is Nephrolepis exaltata and they can thrive in hanging pots like the Spider Plant. What makes them different is that the Boston Fern enjoys humidity. If they are placed in a dry climate, a spritz of water from a spray bottle will do the trick to keep the soil and leaves damp, just like the Majesty Palm. The Boston Fern is certainly a dainty addition to a living space. (Source)

Website Link

When your canine companion eats a spicy substance, it is easy to become alarmed. What does it mean if my dog eats spicy foods? Can dogs taste the spice and do I need to take any action if they ate spicy food?

Dogs cannot taste spicy foods like humans because they lack a protein that allows them to feel the spicy sensation. Because of this, dogs only react to heat. Spice can cause mouth pain, diarrhea, and vomiting in dogs. Symptoms that last longer than 12-24 hours must be treated by a veterinarian.

To understand more of the complexities of your dog’s taste preferences and smell capabilities, continue reading!

Can Dogs Eat Spicy Foods?

Your dog can digest spicy foods, but it is not a good idea to feed them to your pooch.

Spices contain toxins that may not be a cause for alarm in humans, but they do raise a red flag for your dog’s health. This means a pepper that is mild to us may be extremely hot and even dangerous for your dog.

Spicy foods can make your dogs excessively thirsty. If a dog drinks too much water, it can lead to vomiting and weight loss.

Eating spicy foods can include short-term stomach issues like gas and diarrhea or long-term conditions such as canine pancreatitis if not treated immediately or properly.

Can Dogs Taste Spices?

Dogs cannot taste and experience the spicy sensation that humans do. This is because dogs have about 1700 taste receptors while humans have approximately 9000. (Source)

However, dogs have an extremely sophisticated sense of smell! Depending on the breed, dogs have about 125 million sensory glands in their noses! Humans only have 5 to 10 million.

The smell is a dog’s primary sense. It’s how they do social interactions and enjoy their environment. Because of this, if something smells good to your dog, it will taste good too. This is why some dogs love spicy foods – they just smell so good!

This is also why some other dogs are picky eaters. If something does not smell good to your dog, they likely won’t eat it. Most dogs are especially sensitive to hot foods such as peppers or hot sauce, which are common ingredients in many spicy foods.

Other times, your dog is just smart! It is speculated that dogs are picky because they are waiting for something a little more delicious than what they are offered.

In the end, dogs are more carried away by the aroma of a meal but cannot taste it as well as we humans do – and a reason why dogs are so food driven by meals like pungent leftovers from your trash can. (Source)

What Spices are Okay for My Dog to Eat?

Spices that are okay for your dog to eat are basil, ginger, turmeric, parsley, and cinnamon.

Basil may even be healthy for your dog, especially for those who struggle with arthritis and moodiness. Contact your vet for further and specific information on this.

What Spices are Not Okay for My Dog to Eat?

Spices that are not okay for your dog to eat are onion, nutmeg, cocoa powder, garlic, and salt. Each of these spices has a high salt content which is bad for your dog’s health.

In the wild, a dog’s diet is about 80% meat, which is a salty substance. By making salt less palatable, and even unwanted, nature protected dogs from excessive salt intake that can be harmful to a canine’s digestion. (Source)

It’s not worth it to feed your dog spicy foods. They can’t taste the difference and it can cause stomach and digestive issues.

What Should I Do If My Dog Eats Spicy Foods?

If your dog does eat a spicy meal, high chances are that if it is in small amounts or immediate action has been taken, your furry friend is going to be okay.

Spicy foods contain a compound called capsaicin, which is an irritant to dogs. Depending on how sensitive your dog’s stomach is, some spicy foods can go down just fine for certain dogs, while others will experience serious pain.

The best thing to do when your dog eats a spicy meal, regardless of how much they actually ate, is to keep an eye on any signs that your dog is in distress or discomfort.

Signs of distress include increased thirst, increased urination, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, watery eyes, and excessive crying or barking.

If any of these symptoms last more than 12 to 24 hours or are excessive, take your dog to your local veterinarian so they can receive treatment.

How Should I Keep My Dog From Eating Spicy Foods?

If your dog is not the picky type, you will need to take steps to ensure your dog doesn’t eat spicy food.

Keep any open or closed boxes of spicy food away from countertops. Keep a closed door to the kitchen pantry. Have a consistent time for breakfast and dinner with aromatic meals your dog enjoys.

If your dog is eating a lot of human food, it can be a sign they are hungry or dissatisfied with their current diet. If your dog is eating spicy food in excess, their sense of smell has a higher tolerance and affinity for it, so it is appealing to them.

Contact your vet if you have specific concerns about any odd or excessive behaviors. Most of the time, if your dog loves spicy foods, it does not indicate an underlying health condition.

Can Spicy Foods Kill My Dog?

Spicy foods themselves cannot kill your dog, but if your dog is not treated correctly and eats spicy foods in large amounts, spicy foods can reduce your dog’s lifespan or cause other lifelong problems.

Many spices are toxic to dogs, especially potent spices often found in spicy foods, meaning that they can cause short or long-term harm to your dog. However, spices are not poisonous to dogs, so they won’t kill your dog unless they consume an excessive amount of spices. If you keep your dog from eating spicy foods, you won’t have to worry about whether or not they will be harmed.