#gargi animals care

[vijaypalsingh78]

Certified Monkey Removal Specialists: Ensuring Safe and Effective Primate Control

In both urban and rural areas, encounters with wildlife are not uncommon. However, when it comes to monkeys, these encounters can quickly escalate from fascinating to troublesome. Monkeys are intelligent creatures known for their mischief and adaptability, often causing damage to property, raiding crops, and posing risks to human health and safety. When faced with monkey infestations or nuisance behavior, it's essential to seek the assistance of certified monkey removal specialists. These professionals possess the expertise and skills necessary to handle monkey-related issues safely and effectively.

Certified monkey removal specialists are trained professionals equipped with the knowledge and tools to address various aspects of primate control. From assessing the situation to implementing humane removal techniques and providing preventive measures, their services cover a wide range of needs aimed at mitigating conflicts between humans and monkeys.

One of the primary roles of certified monkey removal specialists is to conduct thorough assessments of the affected area. This involves identifying the species of monkeys involved, assessing the extent of the infestation, and determining the factors contributing to their presence. By understanding the behavior and habitat preferences of the monkeys, specialists can develop tailored strategies for their removal and long-term management.

When it comes to removing monkeys from residential or commercial properties, certified specialists prioritize humane methods that minimize stress and harm to the animals. These methods may include live trapping, where monkeys are safely captured and relocated to suitable habitats away from human settlements. Additionally, specialists may employ deterrents such as sound devices or visual barriers to discourage monkeys from returning to the area.

In situations where monkeys pose immediate threats to human safety or property, certified removal specialists are trained to handle emergency interventions. Whether it's securing vulnerable entry points, removing aggressive individuals, or addressing health hazards associated with monkey presence, these professionals are equipped to respond promptly and effectively.

Moreover, certified monkey removal specialists play a crucial role in educating property owners and the public about coexisting with wildlife responsibly. Through outreach programs and informational materials, they raise awareness about the importance of preventing conflicts with monkeys through proper waste management, securing food sources, and avoiding feeding wildlife. By promoting coexistence practices, specialists help foster harmonious relationships between humans and monkeys while minimizing the need for intervention.

One of the distinguishing features of certified monkey removal specialists is their adherence to industry standards and regulations governing wildlife management. These professionals undergo rigorous training and certification processes to ensure that their practices align with ethical and legal guidelines. By staying abreast of the latest advancements in primate control techniques and regulations, they uphold the highest standards of professionalism and accountability in their field.

In addition to their expertise in monkey removal, certified specialists offer comprehensive solutions for preventing future infestations. This may involve conducting habitat modifications, such as installing fencing or removing attractants, to make properties less hospitable to monkeys. By addressing underlying factors that contribute to monkey presence, specialists help property owners achieve long-term solutions to wildlife conflicts.

Furthermore, certified monkey removal specialists collaborate with local authorities, wildlife agencies, and conservation organizations to address broader issues related to primate management. Through partnerships and coordinated efforts, they contribute to the development of sustainable strategies for conserving wildlife habitats and mitigating human-wildlife conflicts.

In conclusion, certified monkey removal specialists play a vital role in addressing the challenges posed by monkey infestations and nuisance behavior. Their expertise, professionalism, and commitment to humane wildlife management ensure that conflicts between humans and monkeys are resolved safely and effectively. By seeking the assistance of certified specialists, property owners can mitigate the risks associated with monkey presence and promote peaceful coexistence with these fascinating creatures.

[rapidpricer]

Pricing in the Meat Industry

Written By: Gargi Sarma

Meat is more than simply food; it's a sophisticated commodity with a complex web of factors impacting its price. It's a mainstay in many diets around the world. Customers' final price is shaped by a wide range of factors from the farm gate to the shop shelf. To fully comprehend meat pricing, we must examine this complex system and navigate the interactions between supply and demand, market structures, laws, and even psychological strategies.

Figure 1: The Growing Global Hunger for Meat (Source: Statista)

For many years, there has been an increasing global need for beef. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) reports that during the 1960s, the world's meat production expanded fivefold. The FAO estimates that 364 million tons of meat will be produced in 2023.

The Intertwined Dance of Supply and Demand:

The basic economic concept of supply and demand is at the core of the price of meat. Animal availability and pricing can be greatly impacted by a number of supply-side factors, including weather fluctuations, disease outbreaks, feed costs, and livestock breeding cycles. Farmers may be forced to grow livestock to market weight earlier if feed prices suddenly rise, for example. This could result in a glut of smaller animals and possibly lower prices. On the other hand, severe winters may restrict the amount of feed available, reducing growth, and resulting in a drop in supply and subsequently higher prices.

Demand is also very important. The intake of meat can be influenced by cultural customs, consumer preferences, income levels, and even health issues. Increased demand for premium cuts, for instance, might result from rising disposable incomes, while customers may choose leaner choices due to greater health consciousness, which would have an impact on costs across the board.

Market Structures: From Farm to Fork:

Meat travels through a complex network of interconnected parties from farm to fork, all of whom have a stake in the outcome.

Farmers: The initial expenses of growing livestock, such as feed, land, and veterinary care, are borne by farmers because they are the primary producers. The industry's power dynamics and erratic market conditions frequently put pressure on its profit margins.

Packers and processors: These massive companies handle the killing, butchering, and packaging of meat; they also add to processing expenses and have an impact on the cuts and portions that are offered to customers. Over time, their consolidation has led to worries about possible price manipulation and diminished bargaining leverage for farmers.

Distributors and retailers: The final price at the checkout counter is further increased by the markups, marketing expenditures, and transportation charges that wholesalers and supermarkets add. The ultimate consumer pricing is also influenced by the degree of competition among retailers and their ability to negotiate with processors.

Control and Outside Factors:

In addition to market dynamics, the pricing of meat is significantly influenced by government restrictions and external influences. Trade agreements, import quotas, and food safety regulations can affect the supply and demand inside the country, causing changes in prices. Disease outbreaks, such as avian influenza, for example, might lead to import restrictions, which lowers competition and may drive up domestic prices. Similar to this, environmental laws about pollution prevention or animal welfare may increase producer costs, which will ultimately be reflected in the end product price.

Psychological Pricing: Gently prodding customers in the meat section

Even the price tag, which may appear simple, is skillfully designed to affect how customers behave. Charm pricing, which ends prices in nines, such as $4.99, is one technique that lowers costs and creates a sense of value. Anchor pricing emphasizes savings and portrays the final price more enticingly by presenting a higher initial price followed by a discount. When costly cuts are placed strategically next to less expensive options, customers may be persuaded to choose the more expensive options by use of comparison.

Challenges:

The meat industry faces a complex web of challenges when it comes to pricing its products. Balancing profitability with consumer affordability while navigating a volatile market requires careful consideration of several factors:

Demand Fluctuations:

Seasonality: Consumer demand for meat varies significantly throughout the year, impacting prices. Holidays and barbeque season drive up demand, while quieter periods see prices dip. Predicting these ebbs and flows accurately is crucial for setting optimal prices.

Economic Trends: Fluctuations in the economy can significantly impact consumer spending habits. During recessions, consumers might opt for cheaper cuts or alternatives, forcing price adjustments.

Dietary Trends: Growing awareness of health and environmental concerns has led to a rise in vegetarianism and flexitarianism. This shift in consumer preferences necessitates diversification of offerings and potentially lower prices for traditional meat products.

Reliable Transportation:

Perishable nature: Meat is highly perishable, requiring consistent cold chain logistics for safe transportation. Maintaining this infrastructure adds to operational costs, which may be reflected in pricing.

Fuel and labor costs: Rising fuel prices and labor shortages in the transportation sector can significantly impact delivery costs, putting pressure on meat processors to adjust prices accordingly.

Global disruptions: Pandemics, geopolitical conflicts, and natural disasters can disrupt global supply chains, leading to transportation delays and increased costs that may require price adjustments.

Wastage:

Processing losses: During processing, trimming, and packaging, unavoidable meat loss occurs. Minimizing this wastage through efficient practices and technology helps control costs and allows for fair pricing.

Spoilage: Improper handling or storage can lead to spoilage, resulting in lost revenue and potentially impacting future pricing strategies to compensate for these losses.

Consumer waste: Consumers may discard parts of meat due to improper storage or preparation, leading to overall industry waste and potential pressure on producers to lower prices to compensate.

Production:

Feed costs: The cost of animal feed fluctuates based on grain prices and other factors, directly impacting production costs and requiring adjustments in pricing strategies.

Animal health and welfare: Ensuring animal health and welfare often involves additional costs for veterinary care, improved living conditions, and antibiotic-free practices. These efforts might be reflected in higher prices for premium meat products.

Labor shortages: The meat industry faces labor shortages, leading to increased labor costs and potentially requiring price adjustments to maintain profitability.

Additional Challenges:

Competition: Intense competition within the meat industry puts pressure on pricing, forcing producers to find ways to differentiate their products and justify higher prices.

Government regulations: Environmental and animal welfare regulations can add to production costs, which may be reflected in pricing strategies.

Consumer price sensitivity: Consumers are increasingly price-sensitive, demanding value for their money. Finding the right balance between affordability and profitability is crucial for success.

Data & Analytics: Taking the wheel of pricing:

Meat producers and retailers are depending more and more on advanced analytics to guide their pricing strategies in the data-driven world of today. To forecast demand and improve pricing models, they monitor rival pricing, consumer preferences, industry trends, and even meteorological patterns. Through the examination of past data and current sales figures, they can dynamically modify prices, providing specific discounts or modifying markups in response to shifts in demand.

Produce Freshness Detector: Integration with POS Data - Retailers in the meat business can precisely monitor the sales performance of fresh produce by connecting the data from the Produce Freshness Detector with point-of-sale (POS) information. By optimizing revenue and decreasing waste, this integration enables dynamic pricing adjustments based on real-time freshness indicators.Teys Australia: This major Australian meat processor uses the "Shelf Life Predictor" system, which combines sensors, machine learning, and cloud-based analytics to assess meat freshness and predict shelf life. Integrating this data with POS allows for informed dynamic pricing based on real-time product quality.

In-Store Display: Integration with Demographic Detection Camera - Retailers can customize promotional content based on the demographics of the customers present by merging data from demographic detection cameras with information from in-store displays. For example, personalized advertising might be displayed based on the preferences of a certain demographic, such as meat varieties, to maximize sales and decrease waste.InContext Solutions: Integrates in-store displays with shopper behavior data, which could include pre-existing demo data.

Expiration Date Tracker: Integration with Inventory Data - Inventory management systems that integrate data from expiration date trackers guarantee proactive handling of merchandise that is about to expire. This integration reduces waste by enabling prompt restocking, markdowns, or targeted promotions to move out merchandise before it goes bad.Fishbowl: This popular cloud-based inventory management system (IMS) offers built-in expiration date tracking, batch and lot control, and real-time stock visibility to minimize waste and optimize product movement.

Demographic Detection Camera: Integration with POS Data and Electronic Shelf Labels - Retailers may learn more about how different populations purchase by combining POS data, electronic shelf labeling, and demographic detection camera data. Strategic price decisions, such as providing discounts or promotions during peak hours for particular consumer groups, are made possible by this knowledge, which maximizes revenue.Criteo: Specializes in retargeting and dynamic product ads, potentially benefiting from real-time purchase data from POS systems.

Electronic Shelf Labels: Integration with GS1 Barcode Data and Inventory Data - Accurate product information and inventory levels can be obtained by integrating GS1 barcode data with electronic shelf labels. By ensuring that the price on the shelf corresponds with the real product data, this integration lowers pricing errors. Real-time information on inventory levels also reduces waste by preventing stockouts and overstocking.RapidPricer: RapidPricer integrates electronic shelf labels with barcode data and inventory management systems which ensures accurate pricing and helps manage stock levels to avoid overstocking and waste.

GS1 Barcode Data: Integration with POS Data and Weather Data - When paired with real-time weather information and point-of-sale data, GS1 barcode data enables shops to modify prices in response to outside variables. For example, shops can use targeted promotions or discounts on particular meat products to increase demand and minimize wastage during bad weather.GS1 Barcode: When a product with a GS1 barcode is scanned at checkout, POS systems can immediately identify the product and link its sales data to real-time weather information. This allows retailers to implement dynamic pricing strategies or targeted promotions based on weather patterns.

Integration with Weather Data: Reduction of CO2 Emission - Effective supply chain management is made possible by the integration of weather data with inventory and transportation systems. Businesses can minimize CO2 emissions and fuel usage by optimizing transportation routes based on weather conditions. Furthermore, precise weather forecasts support demand forecasting by avoiding overstocking and the waste that follows.Microsoft Azure Maps: Offers various geospatial services, including weather forecasting APIs, that can be integrated into supply chain management and logistics software.

Benefits:

Strategic Pricing Decisions: Retailers may optimize income by making well-informed pricing decisions based on customer behavior, product freshness, and real-time considerations, thanks to the integration of these devices and data sources.

Reducing Wastage: By making sure that products are sold before they expire, proactive freshness monitoring, accurate inventory management, and focused promotions help to reduce wastage.

Minimization of CO2 Emission: The supply chain's integration of meteorological data optimizes transportation routes and cuts down on pointless stock movements, hence minimizing CO2 emissions and promoting sustainable practices in the meat business.

Case Studies: Unveiling the Pricing Puzzles:

The Chicken Conundrum: In the US, broiler chicken production is dominated by vertically integrated companies that control all aspects of the production chain, from breeding to processing and retail. This gives them significant control over supply and pricing, leading to relatively stable, but possibly lower prices for consumers.

The Wagyu Wars: Premium cuts of Wagyu beef, renowned for their marbling and intense flavor, command significantly higher prices due to limited supply and stringent breeding practices. Producers in countries like Japan and Australia rely on careful market segmentation and targeted marketing to justify the premium pricing.

RapidPricer: RapidPricer helps automate pricing, promotions, and assortment for retailers. The company has capabilities in retail pricing, artificial intelligence, and deep learning to compute merchandising actions for real-time execution in a retail environment. RapidPricer solution focuses on a strategic subset of products within the meat category characterized by limited shelf life and seasonal stability. To measure the solution's effectiveness, RapiPricer establishes clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) which aim to achieve the following objectives for the meat industry:

Reduce food waste through optimized pricing.

Increase net margin by minimizing losses.

Boost revenue by maximizing product sell-through.

Moreover, RapidPricer can work on data analytics with the above-mentioned partner ecosystem.

Figure 2: RapidPricer’s Solution

Conclusion:

To sum up, in the meat industry, efficient pricing techniques are critical to striking a careful balance between optimizing profits, reducing waste, and advancing sustainability. Businesses can make strategic decisions that align with consumer preferences and market dynamics by utilizing cutting-edge technologies like produce freshness detectors, in-store displays, and demographic detection cameras. These technologies can be seamlessly integrated with data sources like inventory, GS1 barcodes, POS, and weather information. By minimizing CO2 emissions and significantly reducing food waste, the application of such comprehensive pricing strategies not only maximizes financial outcomes but also helps to reduce environmental effects. As the meat business develops, adopting creative pricing strategies guarantees not only financial success but also a dedication to satisfying consumers' shifting needs and promoting sustainable practices for a healthier future.

About RapidPricer

RapidPricer helps automate pricing and promotions for retailers. The company has capabilities in retail pricing, artificial intelligence and deep learning to compute merchandising actions for real-time execution in a retail environment.

Contact info:

Website: https://www.rapidpricer.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rapidpricer/

Email: info@rapidpricer.nl

[schtroumpf-a-lunettes]

The Smurfs That Canon Forgot, Chapter fourteen.

This is the final chapter, everyone!

Read this chapter on: ff.net | AO3 | As always - this post!

Previous Chapters: Ch1 | Ch2 | Ch3 | Ch4 | Ch5 | Ch6 | Ch7 | Ch8 | Ch9 | Ch10 | Ch11 | Ch12 | Ch13

“Just what are those things?” the doctor asked Scruple, eyeing the smurfs atop that bird of theirs which led the way. “Uhh… Those are my pets?” The physician’s voice sounded rather bored. “Pets aren’t allowed in the room you’re staying in.” “Oh, god damn it. A-actually, they don’t live with me, doc. And they’re very well-trained. To get help. Like they’re doing right now.” “They’re wearing… clothes? And riding on top of a bird.” “Yes.” Scruple nodded, “They tend to do that.” Somehow, the doctor left it at that and didn't press him any further. “Oh yeah” Scruple added in a louder voice, “And they can’t talk either. I mean obviously. They’re all very stupid creatures.” He held back a laugh at the looks the smurfs gave him as the physician stared fixedly ahead, Scruple’s goal decidedly achieved. What’s wrong, smurfs? Why not speak up and defend yourselves? Ha! Their stubborn unwillingness to interact with unknown humans… He was damned if he wasn’t going to take advantage of that. Gargamel began to come into view, and so Scruple hastened his pace forward. He was just lying there in a stream that hardly reached Scruple’s ankles. Next to Gargamel, there was also some kind of red speck, which grew clearer as Scruple approached. Was that -- ?! “Holy –“ he rushed over, leaving the doctor trailing a fair bit behind. “Papa Smurf?!” Papa Smurf looked up. “Ah, you’re here! My, you really have grown!” “Nah, can’t be you. Come on. Same stupid disguise again, right?” Scruple insisted as Feathers touched down to the ground and the other smurfs came over. “Not falling for that again. I mean, you died, right?” “Ahem, not at all. The rumours of my death are greatly exaggera- wait, again?!” Papa Smurf shot both Dreamy and Dabbler a suspicious glance. “You didn’t mention that Papa Smurf is back?” Dabbler asked the others, failing to notice the look. “Oh. Yeah. I don’t think we did, huh…” Dreamy realised. “Well, what do you know…” Another voice pierced the air. “Will… will you all stop your infernal…!” “Gargy!” Scruple exclaimed, noticing the extent of the bad shape the emaciated wizard was in, and said the first thing that came to mind. “…You look awful.” “Oh, speak for yourself!” Gargamel spat through the pain. “You smurfs had better scram. The doc’s coming. But uhh…” Scruple trailed off uncomfortably, unwilling to go on. Papa Smurf smiled knowingly. “You’re welcome, Scruple.” By the time the doctor was close enough to attend to Gargamel, the smurfs had slipped off into the trees. “Took you long enough!” both Gargamel and Scruple unwittingly found themselves saying at once. “Well I’m not as young as I used to be. Hmm” he started directing all his focus to assisting the currently helpless wizard, apart from casting a single aside comment to Scruple. “Your pets ran off.” Scruple shrugged. “They’re outdoor pets.” *** “…The nerve of him to call us – but especially me – stupid! And that’s not even to mention what he said about me earlier…!” They were now back at the village. Papa Smurf, Dabbler and Hefty watched passively from a distance as Brainy ranted in earnest to the nearest smurf, who just so happened to be Dreamy. Dreamy was rather animated in his responses, irritated, throwing back remarks, trying to cut through and put a stop to Brainy’s nonstop speech. It looked like it would only be a matter of time before Brainy would get kicked out of the village once again. “Don’t you think Dreamy’s rather… lively right now?” Papa Smurf observed. Understanding dawned on Dabbler. “Gosh, I think you’re right, Papa Smurf. I don’t think I remember the last time Dreamy didn’t seem… detached and withdrawn.” He always seems so miserable, just beneath the surface, but he keeps himself so closed off that it’s always so hard to tell. I worry about him sometimes. “Now that you mention it, Dreamy was pretty talkative when we went to get Scruple. But other than that he hasn’t been very talkative lately” added Hefty. Papa Smurf pondered in silence before speaking again. “What I think Dreamy needs… is distraction. He needs to spend some time away from his own thoughts, to be drawn out of them for a while. I think that would be good for him, and we can try to help him where we can. And… It seems that any distraction large enough, be it negative or positive, can draw him out…” But it’s so hard to get any kind of reaction or response out of Dreamy these days, Dabbler thought to himself. “So what are you saying? “Negative distraction”, so Brainy…” “You don’t suppose that…” Hefty trailed off, an amused grin flickering on his face. …That Brainy is so profoundly annoying, he has the power to distract Dreamy enough to get him to actually come out of his shell, if only in a desperate attempt to get Brainy to stop? It sounded like Papa Smurf had just implied as much. But he wasn’t about to say it out loud. Brainy still had yet to be tossed out of the village by Dreamy. Maybe he wouldn’t be. Dreamy probably didn’t fully realise it, but perhaps he had refrained so far because he could sense on some level that his chatter could be useful for him. *** In the “past”… “Did you try talking to him?” “Yeah. I did.” “And?” Poet shook his head, and Tracker sighed. “Well. What are we going to do?” “This isn’t the time to hide away. We need you, Scaredy.” “No, you don’t.” “How… how are we going to… The village can’t go on indefinitely without guidance.” There was no uncertainty in the way that Scaredy spoke. No room for argument, even though his tone was devoid of any harshness. “Well, you’re going to have to figure that out. We’re going to have to manage.” “But why, Scaredy, why? We’ve barely been managing as it is. We can’t…” Scaredy spoke with a strange calm. “You don’t have a choice.” “Without Scaredy to be the village leader… The whole reason we asked him, chose him is because he can really unite us…” “Wait” Dabbler approached them from behind, “You… you were going to make Scaredy the village leader? This is the first I’m hearing of this.” Poet and Tracker looked up. “You mean… Replacing Papa Smurf with… with someone else? With Scaredy?” Dabbler continued on. “No one is being replaced by anyone, but Papa and the others… they’ve been gone a really long time. This village has been without a proper leader for so long.” “So… you’d think we’d be used to it by now, right? We can continue to manage ourselves, instead of needing to elevate a fellow smurf to a position of leadership.” “Well, it doesn’t matter anyway. Because Scaredy… I don’t know what’s smurfed into him but he’s completely refusing. So I guess we will be “continuing to manage ourselves”, as you say.” “Maybe that’s for the best... And what are you saying, anyway? We’re smurfs! We stick together, look out for each other.” “But, we still need-“ Dabbler shook his head, not letting him go on. “And what were you saying just now, about him uniting us? Because to me, it seemed that all Scaredy was doing was dividing us.” “A few outliers-“ “If it wasn’t discussed with everyone… it’s not any kind of uniting, is it? So instead of relying on some kind of other outside force for help, why don’t we all start trying harder ourselves?” *** In the “present”… There was a knock on the door. Scruple went over, opened it. Nothing there. “Down here!” It was a smurf. “Uhh… Hello? What are you after?” “Me? Uh, well, you know… Sassette is really worried and… We were wondering how Gargamel is doing!” “Oh” Scruple said. “Uh, well, he got pneumonia. Lying in the water that long and all, can’t have been good.” The smurf’s face fell. “He what?” “But” Scruple said hastily, “the doc says he should make a full recovery.” “I-I see… Well that’s good…” Another smurf walked up now. Scruple hadn’t noticed them. “I could have a quick look over Gargamel. Smurfmonia isn’t very smurfy at all…” “And how would you be able to help?” “That’s what I do. I’m Doctor Smurf.” Scruple couldn’t help it; a laugh slipped out from him at that. “Oh? Completed your qualifications at smurf medical school? At the little smurf university?” The smurf claiming to be a doctor frowned. “Ahh… Well you have to admit. The thought is pretty goddamned funny.” “I’m trying to make an offer to help. And besides, did the doctor that saw to Gargamel even go to medical school?” “I sure hope so… I mean, he always was one of the more reliable doctors in the village at least. He saw to me when I was… hurt.” Scruple hadn’t meant to intentionally invoke that, make the smurfs uncomfortable. But he didn’t really care either way. Let them feel uncomfortable. “So, can I come and have a quick look?” Doctor Smurf asked. Scruple toyed around with a possible biting response in his mind. You guys just feel bad, don’t you? You’re just trying to somehow make up for the stuff you’ve pulled over the years. But instead, he just shrugged, and said, “I don’t know. I mean, it’s not my house… right?” It’s really strange, isn’t it? I mean he was actively trying to kill you, eat you or turn you into gold or whatever it is. And here you are, checking if the guy’s okay. What gives? “Scruple!” Gargamel’s sickly voice called from inside the hovel. “Who are you talking to?! Hurry it up already!” “I’m talking to the smurfs, you old man!” Scruple called back irritably. “They wanna come inside your humble abode!” he added with heavy sarcasm. “What?! Send them away! Why are you-“ Gargamel’s voice broke off, replaced by coughing. Scruple turned back to face the smurfs. “Sure, whatever, you can come on in. But with Papa Smurf. He’s around here somewhere, isn’t he?” Papa Smurf emerged from nearby. “Of course. Sorry to be a bother, Scruple, but Sassette insisted we stop by.” “Right. But she didn’t come herself?” The smurf that was neither Papa nor the doctor one spoke. “A little dangerous for a smurfling, we still think. Speaking of which: don’t bother trying anything.” “As if I would.” *** “He’s going to be fine.” “Ya sure?” Sassette asked hopefully. “Yep! Gargamel’s sure had it rough lately but he’s still going to come out of it okay. So there’s no need to worry anymore.” It was Architect relating the news to the smurfling. Dreamy was standing with Papa Smurf nearby. “It’s getting colder… Which means that the anniversary is fast approaching. Strange to think about” said Dreamy. Papa Smurf looked questioningly at him. “Anniversary?” “Yeah. Of when you and the others all… left. We made a point of observing the day every year. But now this year… You’re here with us, so we don’t need to anymore.” Dreamy paused. “It was kind of one of the things that brought us all together.” He was going to say more, but got rather distracted because something – no, someone – was flying nearby. “Hello!” a voice called cheerfully. “Oh, hi Cupid. Come to shoot me with one of your stupid arrows again?” Architect asked darkly. Cupid chuckled good-naturedly. “Not for a few years yet, I’m afraid. I’m just passing through, actually.” Surprise lit up Architect’s face. “Wait, wh-“ “Papa Smurf?!” Cupid exclaimed in complete shock, catching sight of the red-clothed smurf. “Aren’t you supposed to be dead?” “Not at all” “Are you sure?” “Quite.” “Oh, he was never dead, just missing” Smurfette added helpfully. “Oh, apologies. It’s so good to see you, Papa Smurf. I’m glad you’re still alive. I really thought you were gone…” “I get that a lot” Papa sighed. “We were missing in time actually. Jumping continuously from one point in time to another” Smurfette informed him, and a thoughtful expression crossed her face for a few moments as Cupid processed this information before she continued. “…Actually, you should probably know about our time travelling. Didn’t anyone tell you?” “I remember hearing something about how Papa Smurf, among several other smurfs including you Smurfette, were gone… But I don’t know how I could have possibly known you were time travelling.” “Because” Smurfette said seriously, “You were there. We met you, when you were younger.” “You…?” Cupid scratched his head in bewilderment. “You what now?” Dreamy asked, now concentrating intensely on the conversation at hand. “Van Garg? Turning the arrows of love into arrows of hate?” Smurfette prompted. “The arrows of…?” Cupid smacked at his balding head in sudden recognition. “Now there’s something I haven’t thought about for centuries! But my, that was…” He tried counting on his fingers and gave up. “And you’re telling me that…?” Smurfette nodded. “Oh. Oh, wow… Some of it’s coming back to me. It was you. All of you were there…” “You. You met up with them?!” Dreamy abruptly burst out. Cupid took little notice of the outburst and continued to address Papa Smurf and Smurfette. “I thought you were… Well, you know, as I said, no longer of this world. I knew- I heard that you were – gone, missing, what have you! But if I had known at all that time travel factored into it… well, perhaps I could have pieced it together-“ “You’re telling me- okay, no. No.” Dreamy took a deep breath before continuing. “You’re telling me that the entire time, you maybecould have told us that they were still alive, and travelling through time, and that there was still some hope left to be had?!” Papa Smurf put a hand on Dreamy’s shoulder. “Cupid wouldn’t have been able to lead you to us.” “He would have been able to give us some information. We had nothing. We didn’t know what had happened or what was going on! It would have made a huge difference! Argh!” Dreamy kicked at the ground in frustration, started storming off. Cupid hovered there in the air awkwardly, looking rather guilty. “It was uh, good to see you again Cupid” Papa told him briefly, and hurried after Dreamy. *** “It didn’t have to be over six years. We could have found you first. Or, we would have had a much better chance at it. So much could have easily been avoided.” Papa Smurf patted Dreamy on the back. “It is what it is, I’m afraid…” The two smurfs sat in silence for a little bit before Papa continued. “But we’re here now, my little smurf, and that’s what matters. No time crystals can split up this village permanently. We’re all together once more and we’ll move forward together. That’s what really matters.” Dreamy nodded slowly. “Yeah... Yeah. I know. I just- You’re right. It’s no use dwelling on it, as you say.” He sighed. Papa nodded in turn. “It can be difficult sometimes, trying to put it all into perspective. And that’s okay. But as long as we’re all trying our best to be as smurfy as we can be, we’ll have many good times to look forward to.” “I hope so.” “We will, don’t you worry.” “Alright. I believe it, and everything you said… I just want to be alone for a little bit.” “Okay.” Papa Smurf gave Dreamy a hug. “I’ll come back to get you after a little bit. I think I should be getting back to the others too.” Papa left him, respecting Dreamy’s wishes, and Dreamy sat quietly, not thinking of much at all, simply enjoying the nature around him for a while. *** It was evening, and dinner was about to be served. Papa Smurf held Baby close and walked carefully through the snow, over to the mushroom-shaped house. Gave a knock at the door. “It’s dinnertime, and we won’t start without you” he said amiably. “Can’t have a nice meal without everysmurf there.” There was a rustling inside, and the door opened to reveal Scaredy. “I saved you a seat at the dinnertable, next to me” Papa told him. “Thank you, Papa.” Over six years had inevitably impacted each of the smurfs left behind, each of them in different ways. There was a huge amount that Papa Smurf still didn’t know about. But even though he didn’t know exactly why Scaredy tended to be rather reclusive these days, that was hardly going to stop him from doing his best to acknowledge him and make him feel included just as much as the other smurfs. “Din!” Baby announced. “Yes!” Papa Smurf said happily, cradling the youngest smurf of all in his arms. “Dinner, dinner!” “Deeeeee” Baby cooed. “DeeeeeeNUH!” His hand wrapped tightly around Scaredy’s outstretched finger. Scaredy’s face was enveloped with a smile. In that moment, looking upon Baby, he couldn’t help feeling like everything was right in the world, and that everything was going to be okay.

End.

Author’s Notes:

That’s a wrap! But it’s not over yet – this fic might be over but there WILL be more. Please tune in to the next smurfs fic that I’ll be uploading soon – keep your eyes peeled everyone, and watch this space.

Writing this has really been an experience, what with it being my first real fic and all.

The final thing I want to mention is I need to acknowledge and credit someone I still consider to be a good internet friend; a fellow smurfologist. My discussions with them from years ago really got me thinking and were a source of inspiration that fuelled this story. If you’re reading this, I hope you know who you are, and PLEASE shoot me a message so we can catch up. I miss you :P

Also, links to posts I’ve made responding to some reader questions:

https://schtroumpf-a-lunettes.tumblr.com/post/177646693330/a-reviewer-of-my-fic-mentioned-that-given-whats

https://schtroumpf-a-lunettes.tumblr.com/post/179961351025/response-to-questions-about-my-fic-by-guest

[captaincityspidey-blog]

The MCG, animal activists allege, is out of its depth when it comes to the capture of stray monkeys in the city. It had to allot the daunting task to multiple agencies, but none worked out well. This time — third in the last 12 months — it has hired the services of Jaipur-based Gargi Animal Care and Control Service Provider.

The animals, after being captured in a humane manner, will undergo mandatory health check-up. The MCG team will then, under the watch of wildlife department officials, release the animals in the outskirts of the city.  

Earlier, the MCG had hired a Mathura-based expert in January to catch monkeys in a humane manner. However, in February, it cancelled the contract of an animal rescue agency, acting on a complaint of animal cruelty filed by animal rights activist Nikhil Mahesh.

Animal rights activists have been raising the issue of cruel treatment of monkeys during the process of capture.

Also, MCG officials had said that capturing monkeys would be recorded on camera and videos and photos of the same would be taken to ensure that animals are not harmed during the process — but this has not happened in reality. Commenting on the matter, Nikhil Mahesh, founder of Umeed for Animals Foundation, said, “The MCG hires young kids from Mathura who are not trained and use cruel ways to capture monkeys. For the last one year, the MCG has been talking about videography, but nothing has been done. No one records the videos and there is no monitoring of the process. Moreover, they have no place to confine the animals. The animals are eventually released in areas where there is no food and they are bound to return.”

One MCG official claimed, “Most of the monkey catchers came from Mathura and would look for excuses to go back home. These people worked intermittently — hampering the whole system.”

According to the civic body’s estimate, there are over 20,000 monkeys in the city.

Several instances of monkey attack have been reported from residential areas close to the Aravallis.

[vijaypalsingh78]

Embracing Compassion: The Power of Foster Care for Animals

Foster care for animals is a beacon of hope for countless furry friends awaiting their forever homes. It's a heartwarming journey that embodies compassion, empathy, and the unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of animals in need.

At its core, foster care for animals provides temporary homes for animals rescued from shelters, abusive situations, or those simply in need of extra care and attention. These foster homes offer a nurturing environment where animals can heal, thrive, and prepare for their next chapter in life.

One of the most beautiful aspects of foster care is its ability to provide personalized care tailored to the unique needs of each animal. Whether it's a kitten requiring round-the-clock bottle feeding, a dog recovering from surgery, or a senior pet longing for companionship, foster caregivers offer love, patience, and support every step of the way.

Foster caregivers play a pivotal role in the rehabilitation and socialization of animals. They provide essential care, including feeding, grooming, and administering medication, while also offering plenty of love and affection. By being exposed to a home environment, animals learn valuable social skills, gain confidence, and overcome any fears or anxieties they may have developed.

Moreover, foster care serves as a vital bridge between shelters and permanent homes. By opening their hearts and homes to foster animals, caregivers free up space in overcrowded shelters, allowing them to rescue even more animals in need. Additionally, foster caregivers act as advocates, sharing the stories and personalities of their foster pets to help them find their perfect match.

Foster care for animals is not without its challenges, but the rewards are immeasurable. Witnessing the transformation of a scared, neglected animal into a happy, healthy companion is a profoundly fulfilling experience. It's a testament to the power of love, compassion, and the incredible difference that individuals can make in the lives of animals.

In conclusion, foster care for animals is a lifeline for animals in need, offering them a second chance at life and love. Whether you're considering becoming a foster caregiver or simply supporting your local animal rescue organization, know that your contribution can truly change the world, one animal at a time.

[vijaypalsingh78]

Making a Difference: The Vital Role of Animal Rescue Organizations

Animal rescue organizations play a pivotal role in our communities, serving as beacons of hope for animals in need. These dedicated groups work tirelessly to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals, providing them with a second chance at life and love. From abandoned pets to injured wildlife, these organizations are on the front lines, making a profound impact on the well-being of animals everywhere.

One of the primary functions of animal rescue organizations is to rescue animals from situations of neglect, abuse, or abandonment. Whether it's a stray dog wandering the streets or a kitten left in a cardboard box, these organizations step in to provide immediate care and shelter. They work closely with local authorities and concerned citizens to respond to reports of animal cruelty and provide a safe haven for animals in distress.

Once rescued, animals receive the medical attention they need to address any injuries or illnesses they may have. Veterinary care is a cornerstone of animal rescue organizations, ensuring that each animal receives proper treatment and rehabilitation. Whether it's spaying and neutering, vaccinations, or surgery, these organizations spare no effort to restore the health and well-being of every animal in their care.

Beyond physical health, animal rescue organizations also focus on the emotional and behavioral needs of their animals. Many rescued animals have experienced trauma or neglect, requiring patience, understanding, and rehabilitation to overcome their past experiences. Through enrichment activities, socialization, and training programs, these organizations help animals build trust, confidence, and resilience, preparing them for a smooth transition into their forever homes.

Animal rescue organizations also play a vital role in promoting responsible pet ownership and reducing pet overpopulation. Through adoption events, educational outreach, and spay/neuter initiatives, they work to ensure that every animal finds a loving and permanent home. By encouraging adoption and emphasizing the importance of spaying and neutering, these organizations help reduce the number of animals entering shelters and improve the overall welfare of animals in our communities.

In conclusion, animal rescue organizations are true champions for animals in need, providing them with the care, compassion, and second chances they deserve. Through their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts, they make our world a better place for both animals and humans alike. Supporting these organizations through volunteering, donations, or adoption not only saves lives but also helps create a more compassionate and humane society for all.

[vijaypalsingh78]

Arunachal Macaque Rescue Experts: Guardians of Eastern Himalayan Biodiversity

The Arunachal macaque, a recently discovered primate species endemic to the Eastern Himalayas, faces numerous threats to its survival, including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching. In response to these challenges, Arunachal Macaque Rescue Experts have emerged as dedicated champions of primate conservation, specializing in the rescue, rehabilitation, and protection of this unique species.

Arunachal Macaque Rescue Experts possess specialized knowledge and skills in primate behavior, veterinary care, and wildlife management, allowing them to effectively respond to situations involving distressed or injured macaques. Equipped with a deep understanding of the ecological significance and conservation status of the Arunachal macaque, these experts work tirelessly to ensure the welfare and survival of rescued individuals.

One of the primary responsibilities of Arunachal Macaque Rescue Experts is to conduct rescue operations to save macaques in distress. Whether it's an orphaned infant, an injured adult, or a macaque trapped in a conflict situation, these experts spring into action to provide immediate assistance and care. With expertise in handling and tranquilizing techniques, they prioritize the safety and well-being of both the macaques and themselves during rescue operations.

Upon rescuing macaques, Arunachal Macaque Rescue Experts provide comprehensive medical evaluation and treatment to address any injuries, illnesses, or trauma. Rehabilitation facilities are equipped with specialized equipment and resources to facilitate the recovery and rehabilitation process, ensuring that rescued macaques receive the care and attention they need to thrive.

Furthermore, Arunachal Macaque Rescue Experts play a crucial role in community outreach and education, raising awareness about the importance of primate conservation and the threats facing the Arunachal macaque. By engaging with local communities, government agencies, and conservation organizations, these experts foster a sense of stewardship and collective responsibility for the protection of this unique primate species and its habitat.

In conclusion, Arunachal Macaque Rescue Experts serve as invaluable guardians of Eastern Himalayan biodiversity, demonstrating unwavering commitment and expertise in the rescue and conservation of the Arunachal macaque. Through their dedication and passion, these experts offer hope for the survival of this remarkable species and inspire others to join the cause of primate conservation in the region.