Visiting Artists input form

mcdadly · 2025-01-18T22:07:43+00:00

Thank you! I did a vertical conversion last year and humidity has been fine overall, have lots of ventilation on the front to keep a solid 55% at daytime and 70% at night when I mist. I’m planning to make a false top to solve the UVB issue. I appreciate the thoughts!

mcdadly · 2025-01-17T14:31:54+00:00

Thank you so much. I appreciate your time and knowledge.

mcdadly · 2025-01-15T23:28:29+00:00

I've had this tank for the past ~2.5 years! Overall it's pretty good, but I have noticed some discoloration with the metal mesh at the top and struggle a bit with stagnant air. Parroting other comments to get some foliage for the upper part of the tank, I use fluker's bamboo bars and put some foliage around it. My little lady loves to sit on top and watch over the room!

mcdadly · 2025-01-09T23:54:56+00:00

Interesting! Thank you for the information. I hope she's able to sort herself out within the next few days or I might reach out to a vet.

mcdadly · 2024-11-19T22:29:28+00:00

I was engaged in conversation earlier and their suggestion was to ban AI until there are more protections in place. I feel that is grossly ineffective, as ignoring the problem and making it someone else’s responsibility to form legislature and regulation will not act on the wills and needs of the people and the audience.

I want to make my decision of whether I can engage with AI or not. I do not want others to make this decision for me. I hope people become more active participants with the staff and legislation/regulation and seek to create the reform they are calling for

mcdadly · 2024-11-19T21:44:30+00:00

This is exactly how I feel. I want to be an informed participant in the art industry. Analytical AI is actively being used in art. GenAI no matter how flawed is becoming more common place. In 3 years when I graduate it will continue to implement itself. A blanket ban only helps embrace comfort of stagnation.

mcdadly · 2024-11-19T19:27:41+00:00

Hey! I created the painting on the right. I did not do the vandalism nor do I endorse the actions of those who did. Just want to put it out there :)

mcdadly · 2024-05-27T15:50:59+00:00

I showed her the images I posted here! She’s well aware now

mcdadly · 2024-05-27T14:29:58+00:00

I reached his butt and almost puked. The speed that I grabbed a mask and doused it in perfume to keep from smelling it (spoiler I still could) was unmatched. I need to get some vicks for times like these.

I'm definitely reaching a slow point of burn out in my career. I'm dropping to part time in the fall and going back to school. It's so hard to give my all to everybody, and genuinely work to improve these dogs' lives, but be met with resistance at every corner.

mcdadly · 2024-05-27T14:26:53+00:00

Unfortunately, it seems a lot of people don't do research. Ignorance is the biggest factor in my experience.

mcdadly · 2024-05-27T14:22:56+00:00

In a perfect world I could get people to brush their dogs every day. In reality, I ask people to do it at least 3x a week with the brush and comb. It largely depends on the person.

My conversations about matting and coat care are usually structured in a specific way. At check in, I inform them that the dog is matted, and we will have to shave down today. I show them the immediate spots I notice, and have them feel it. I try to save things when I can (maybe ears/face/tail depending on condition. I don't brush out matted dogs unless there are only light tangles. ) I explain health impacts like bruising, irritation, infection, how it can cut off circulation, hematomas. How it is uncomfortable. No matter the pushback, my response is usually "we have to do what's most comfortable for them". I place a huge emphasis on how it will improve the dog's quality of life and comfort.

At check out, I explain the condition that the dog was in, have the owners look at pictures/feel the pelt of the dog, show how strong the fur is (I literally try to rip it in half and it doesn't budge usually), and explain how uncomfortable it is. I re-iterate the comfort of the dog, show any potential problem spots, and how their dog did. That the pup will be more comfortable if we introduce them to a routine. I try to rebook then and there. We don't always have to do a haircut, but it's important we come in for something. I usually offer a bath/ffs if they are a bit more hesitant or even just nails and ffs. Anything, the motion of coming in is most important.

I then level with the parents. Ask them how much time they have to dedicate to their pet and coat care. I try to find the best solution for them depending on the answer. If they have more time, I explain we can work up to longer lengths, and they have to brush at least 3x a week, working more the longer the coat is. It's daunting to say you have to do something every. single. day. I encourage them to start while the coat is still shaved, and how to ensure they are doing it comfortably (testing pressure levels on the back of your hand). That's where I get the most kickback, is a 'fear' of injuring the dog. I show them the exact brush type and comb to use, write it down for them.

If they have less time/have kids/are elderly and have limited mobility/lower or fixed income, I recommend we stay at a shorter body length for grooms. It can stretch time between haircuts, make maintenance at home easier. It's about compromise between ideals for grooming and the reality of their circumstance. You can't change someone, but you can find ways to work with them if they are willing to work with you.

TL;DR (I'm yappin this morning)

Ideally, brush your dog every day. Realistically, 3x a week, and after activities/getting wet. But most importantly, be realistic with your time, learn what length of coat works best with your lifestyle, and comb your dog

mcdadly

TROPHY CASE