A plunger, force cup, plumber's friend or plumber's helper is a tool used to clear blockages in drains and pipes. It consists of a rubber suction cup attached to a stick (shaft) usually made of wood or plastic. A different bellows-like design also exists, usually constructed of plastic.
Use
For the common plunger, the cup is pushed down against the drain opening, either pressing hard into the drain to force air in, or pushing down until the rubber cup is flattened, and is then pulled out, creating a vacuum to pull blockage material upward and dislodge waste or other material.
Shape and function
The cup of a kitchen plunger looks like a rubber ball cut in half with a flared edge, while the toilet plunger's cup looks more like a distorted bowl, tapered on one half, with a large opening on the bottom.
A plunger is much more effective with water in the pipe, as water does not compress and thus transmits more of the applied force than does air. When a plunger alone is ineffective, it can be supplemented by a chemical drain cleaner for sinks and tubs; or a plumber's snake for stubborn clogs, and clogs of the main line or toilet.
History
The plunger was invented in 1874 by New York confectioner John Hawley, with the flattened rim added in 1876. The invention is referred to in the patent as a "vent-clearer", and was marketed as a "force cup".
Each year on April 23rd, National Lost Dog Awareness Day increases awareness concerning missing dogs and celebrates reunions.
Through networks of shelters, veterinaries, social media, and other media sources, many lost canines and families reunite. The day is an opportunity to learn more about prevention and networking. There are also steps to take to prevent your family pet from going missing. Some of these preventative steps also help return Fido to you if he does go missing.
Preventative steps to take:
- Keep your dog secure. Whether on a leash or in a fenced yard, your dog is less likely to wander if it is secured.
- Training is valuable. Dogs who have been trained by a professional are less likely to go missing. Most importantly, they learn recall commands. Formal obedience training also offers owners valuable information that can lead to a better relationship between pet and owner.
- Always supervise your animal. Dogs, especially expensive purebreds, can be stolen even from a fenced yard.
- Tags and microchipping help with the recovery of a missing animal. These steps must be completed when you first receive your new family member. While tags are an inexpensive way to protect your pet, dogs can slip a collar. Many pet adoption sites will hold microchipping events for a fraction of the cost. The price is coming down all the time, too. It is essential to keep the information on the microchip or tag up to date also. It is only as useful as the information listed on the chip in helping recover your pet.
- Spaying and neutering reduce your pet’s likelihood of wandering off in search of a mate. Additionally, it eliminates the chances of unwanted offspring should your dog wander off unexpectedly.
- Keep records up to date on your animals. That includes photos, vaccinations, and those valuable tags and microchips, too.
Taking action if your pet goes missing:
- Contact your local shelters and vets. Please provide them with current information regarding your dog, including a color photograph.
- Walk your neighborhood. Let your neighbors know as you search. Enlist their help, too.
- Post notices in neighborhood grocery stores, gas stations, and coffee shops. Go to social media and post your pet’s info in local community forums.
- Check advertising websites. If your dog was stolen, you might recognize the description from the ad. Contact the police if you think your dog was stolen.
HOW TO OBSERVE
Take steps to protect your pet. Develop a plan.
NATIONAL LOST DOG AWARENESS DAY HISTORY
Lost Dogs Illinois and Lost Dogs Wisconsin directors Susan Taney and Kathy Pobloskie created National Lost Dog Awareness Day in 2014 to increase awareness and help prevent animals from going missing. They also promote celebrating reunions.
