Category: News Bark

A Voice of Integrity, A Gentle Soul, and a True Dog Lover

The world of journalism has lost one of its most respected and empathetic voices. Mark Tully, the legendary journalist, author, and former BBC India correspondent, passed away on 25th January 2026, leaving behind a legacy that shaped generations of readers, listeners, and thinkers.

At Buddy Life Magazine, his passing feels deeply personal. In October 2016, we had the honour of featuring Mark Tully on our cover, celebrating not only his extraordinary journalistic journey but also a side of him that many cherished quietly — his deep love for dogs.

Mark Tully was more than a reporter of events; he was a storyteller of India’s soul. For decades, he observed the country with rare honesty, humility, and compassion. His writing never shouted — it listened. His words reflected empathy for ordinary people, respect for tradition, and courage to question power without losing grace.

Beyond newsrooms and headlines, Mark Tully was known among friends as a gentle, kind-hearted human being, whose affection for animals—especially dogs—was genuine and profound. He believed dogs were not just companions but silent teachers of loyalty, patience, and unconditional love. In conversations with Buddy Life, he spoke warmly about how dogs bring emotional balance and quiet joy into human lives.

His home always had space for paws, wagging tails, and calm companionship. For him, dogs were family — not possessions. This belief aligned perfectly with Buddy Life’s philosophy: celebrating animals as thinking, feeling beings who enrich our lives.

Mark Tully’s life was a rare blend of intellect and empathy. Whether reporting on political change, social realities, or spiritual questions, he carried an unmistakable moral clarity. Yet, it was his humility that stood out the most. Despite global recognition, he remained grounded, approachable, and deeply humane.

As we remember him today, we remember a man who loved truth, respected diversity, and found comfort in the quiet presence of dogs. His legacy will live on through his books, broadcasts, and the countless lives he touched — human and animal alike.

At Buddy Life Magazine, we bow our heads in gratitude for the privilege of having him as part of our journey.

Rest in peace, Mark Tully.
Your words will endure.
Your compassion will inspire.
And your love for dogs will always remain close to our hearts. 🐾

World Animal Protection calls for better institutionalized protection of animals— Gajender Kumar Sharma and Shubhobroto Ghosh elucidate.

As 2025 draws to a close, it is painfully evident that the world remains fractured by conflicts, with human beings killing and maiming each other in unimaginable numbers. Amidst this climate of violence and confrontation, countless animals are caught in situations where they suffer silently, victims of injustices inflicted by humans.

Throughout history, the strong have exploited the weak and this pattern continues today in our treatment of vulnerable communities and animals. In the food, fashion, and entertainment industries, animals endure immense suffering. Yet many conscientious individuals and organizations, such as World Animal Protection, work tirelessly to challenge this ongoing assault on our fellow creatures.

In India, the principle of kindness toward animals dates back more than two millennia to the reign of Emperor Ashoka. After the devastating battle of Kalinga, Ashoka transformed from a ruthless conqueror into a benevolent monarch, instituting some of the world’s first animal protection laws.

Compassion for animals is also deeply rooted in India’s cultural and spiritual heritage, reflected in texts such as the Vedas, Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita, all of which call for respect and empathy toward all living beings.

Today, however, the global wildlife trade has surged alarmingly. Animals are crammed into crates, boxes and containers, enduring horrific conditions to satisfy the whims of the wealthy who flaunt exotic pets as symbols of status. This demand fuels rampant poaching across the world, with little regard for animal welfare. Tragically, many animals perish during transport or in captivity, their basic needs ignored in confined environments.

Elephants, tigers, dolphins, and many other species are exploited for entertainment, forced to live in stressful and unnatural conditions. A stark example is Amer Fort in Jaipur, Rajasthan, where around eighty elephants are used to ferry tourists. These majestic creatures endure unacceptable suffering merely to provide fleeting amusement. World Animal Protection has long campaigned to end this cruel practice, advocating for rehabilitation programs and humane alternatives that benefit both elephants and their handlers. This campaign calls upon civil society to support a transition toward a kinder future for India’s National Heritage Animal.

Factory farming presents another grim reality. Millions of animals are slaughtered to satisfy human appetites, often raised with heavy use of antibiotics that compromise both animal welfare and human health. World Animal Protection continues to campaign against this wasteful and destructive system, including at the recent COP30 in Belém, Brazil. By highlighting the links between factory farming, environmental damage, and public health, the organization promotes the “One Health” approach—endorsed by the Indian government— which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental well-being.

A beacon of hope emerged in 2024 when the then Chief Justice of India announced that he had given up animal products such as leather and silk, adopting a vegan lifestyle inspired by his daughters. This decision is significant, as countless animals are killed in the fur, leather, feather, and silk industries for luxury goods. It is long overdue for society to embrace kinder choices in clothing, diet, and entertainment. Wearing animal-derived products for vanity diminishes the wearer as much as it harms the animals sacrificed for fashion.

Research has shown that kindness toward animal’s nurtures empathy in children, fostering compassion for humans as well. The case for treating animals with respect is clear: kindness is not merely a virtue, but the highest form of wisdom.

About the Authors: Gajender Kumar Sharma is the Country Director and Shubhobroto Ghosh is the Wildlife Campaign Manager of World Animal Protection, India.

Feeding your dog is not just about scooping kibble in a bowl and calling it a day. If you want your furry bestie to stick around for the long haul—chasing tennis balls, giving sloppy kisses, living their best life—you gotta pay attention to what is going in that bowl. Just like people, dogs don’t want to eat the same thing (or need the same stuff) when they are babies, grown-ups or raising their old-man eyebrows. I got some legit advice from Prithwish Mukherjee, a certified canine nutritionist. He knows his stuff and, honestly, he makes it all sound way less scary than the several free online consultants.

Puppy Power: Tiny Tornadoes Need Fuel
Puppies? They are basically little furry storm-wrecking balls with legs. All they do is eat, sleep, chew your shoes, repeat. They need food that actually keeps up with all that chaos. Mukherjee swears by the holy trinity: protein, fat and carbs. “Protein builds the muscles, fats (especially the fancy omega things) make their brains and coats awesome,” he says.

“And carbs? Not evil! Puppies need ’em for all that running and learning.” Do not forget calcium and phosphorus
either—otherwise, you will end up with a wobbly pup and dental bills that will make you cry. Also, tiny stomachs mean you should break up their meals. Three to four times a day, not one giant food coma.

And please, for the love of dogs, stop sharing your snacks. Chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic—these are straight-up
doggie poison. Spicy wings? Save those for the football game. Mukherjee says people mean well, but honestly,
it is not worth the vet bills. Oh, and if you are cooking for your dog at home—good for you, Chef. But do not wing it. Puppies need a ton of stuff in the right amounts (who knew, right?), and it is super easy to screw up. Just team up with a real nutritionist, or you could mess up your dog’s health for life.

Adult Dogs: Keeping’ It Tight
Once your dog’s done growing (could be one year, could be seven if you have got a giant slobbery breed), you wanna switch gears. Now it is all about maintenance. Think: keeping them fit, happy, not turning into a couch potato.

Protein? Still important. But do not go bananas with the calories or fat, or you will end up with a chunky monkey.
Mukherjee says portion control is your BFF here. People love to overfeed because “he looks hungry!” — nah, he is just a good actor.

Carbs get a bad rap, but they are not all evil. Stuff like oats or brown rice is great for digestion and gives steady energy, so your dog is not bouncing off the walls or crashing. Working dogs or marathon runners? Sure, they need more chow. Couch surfers? Maybe knock it back a bit. Treats—oh man, those add up fast. Mukherjee’s rule? Treats should be less than 10% of your dog’s day. Swap out the bacon for carrot sticks or apple slices. They will survive, promise.
Now, about all those trendy diets—grain-free, raw, whatever. Grain allergies? Super rare. Raw? Only if you are a mealprepping wizard, because screwing that up is kinda risky. For most dogs, a balanced, regular diet with some healthy carbs is more than fine.

Old Dogs, New Tricks: Eating for the Silver Years
When your pup starts slowing down and those muzzles get frosty (adorable, honestly), their bodies change. Metabolism drops, joints might creak, kidneys are not what they used to be. Now food is more about comfort and keeping everything ticking along—weight in check, organs happy, moving as well as possible.

Look, older dogs are not running marathons anymore, but that does not mean you can skimp on the good stuff in their bowl. People always think, Oh, less food, less protein, and just start slashing their diet. But come on—muscles do not just stick around by magic. Mukherjee says it straight: senior pups still need top-notch, easy-to-digest protein (think chicken, fish—not cardboard kibble), or they will lose muscle. And honestly, getting old is hard enough without turning into a noodle.

And do not even get me started on those sketchy fillers. Older dogs’ guts just do not have time for junk. Keep it
simple: lean meats, stuff that does not turn into a brick in their stomach. Toss in some fish oil for Omega-3s—seriously, their joints will thank you. If your dog’s got kidney issues or diabetes, do not play vet on Google. Call the pros and get the real scoop for their meals.

Hydration? Huge deal. Older dogs sometimes act like water is lava, so mix in some wet food or splash a bit of low-sodium broth on their dinner. Works like a charm for picky eaters or those who just do not care anymore.

Every senior dog is basically its own mystery novel. Mukherjee nails it—regular vet visits and being cool with tweaking their diet as needed is probably the nicest thing you can do for your old pal.

Final Hot Take
Puppies are chaos, seniors are wisdom with whiskers and food is the bridge between the two. There’s no one-size-fitsall here. Figure out what works, ask for help when you need it, and you’re doing way more than just feeding your dog. You are making their days brighter, longer and way tastier.

Or, as Mukherjee says—what you scoop into that bowl is how you show love. Customizing their meals as they age doesn’t just stack on years; it makes every single day count.

Big thanks to Prithwish Mukherjee, the real MVP (Most Valuable Player) in dog nutrition wisdom.

Recipe for canine snacks at home without blowing money, says Pradeep Verma.

Making dog treats at home is a rewarding way to show love to your furry companion while saving money and avoiding artificial additives. You don’t need fancy equipment or pricey ingredients—just a few pantry staples and a little time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting wholesome, tail-wagging treats your dog will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are affordable, widely available, and safe for most dogs:

• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for sensitive stomachs)
• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup natural peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free)
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana
• 1 egg

Optional add-ins:

Grated carrot or pumpkin puree for extra fiber

Chopped parsley for fresh breath

A dash of cinnamon (optional, in small amounts)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, applesauce (or banana) and egg. Stir until smooth. This forms the base of your dough and adds flavor and moisture.

3. Add the Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir in the flour and oats. Mix until a dough forms. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour. If it’s too dry, add a spoonful of water or applesauce.

4. Roll and Shape

Dust your countertop with flour and roll out the dough to about half-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to make fun shapes, or simply cut into squares with a knife. If you’re short on time, roll the dough into small balls and flatten them with a fork.

Addressing regulatory gaps and high GST, Rödl & Partner Paper highlights policy support.

Alongside World Food India 2025, organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Rödl & Partner released a landmark paper outlining strategic pathways to strengthen India’s fast-growing pet food sector.

MoFPI and EY also co-hosted a special session on “India’s Pet Food Industry: Scaling for Domestic and Global Growth” at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan.

The paper highlighted India’s rapidly expanding food market with the country’s pet population at an estimated 42.2 million in 2024, projected to surpass 100 million by 2035.

In revenue terms, the industry was valued at $720 million in 2024 and is expected to reach $2 billion by 2035. While dog food accounts for over 85% of the market, cat food is the fastest-growing segment, and e-commerce has become a key growth enabler. Despite this momentum, the sector continues to operate under frameworks not designed for it. The paper calls for a harmonized and science-backed regulatory framework to enable trust, affordability and access. Recommendations include rationalizing GST to align pet food with essential nutrition categories, adopting BIS standards as enforceable benchmarks, creating a single-window system for compliance, expanding accredited testing infrastructure, and ensuring consistent labelling and product standards across offline and online markets.

In his preface to the paper, Dr. Umesh Kalahalli, Independent Veterinarian, noted, “As veterinarians, we see daily how nutrition impacts pet health. Many pets in India are still fed improvised diets that lack essential nutrients. Dedicated, enforceable regulations would give pet parents confidence, enable vets to guide responsibly, and ensure pets receive the same quality of nutrition as pets worldwide.”

The panel discussion at World Food India brought together leading voices from across the industry, including Salil Murthy, managing director, Mars Petcare India, Satinder Singh, managing director, Royal Canin, Rinka Banerjee, founder and CEO, Thinking Forks Consulting Pvt. Ltd, Ram Soni, partner, food and agriculture, Praxis Global Alliance and Abhishek Agarwal, Founder and CEO, Anomalous, moderated by Pallavi Anand, Business Head, Nestlé Purina Petcare – South Asia Region.

Salil Murthy, managing director, Mars Petcare India, said, “India is home to over 35 million pets today, a number set to double within the next five to seven years. Yet, penetration of manufactured pet food remains below 10% in Indian households, compared to near-universal adoption in developed markets. Unlocking the true potential of India’s pet food sector requires three structural shifts: First, a responsible and science-aligned regulatory framework to build consumer trust and ensure transparency.

Second, rationalizing the current 18% GST on pet food which is essential nutrition — an anomaly while other pet care items like pet shampoos are now taxed at just 5%. Third, a nationwide effort to raise awareness so that pet parents move from home-cooked meals to complete, science-backed nutrition that ensures a longer, healthier life for pets. And finally, recognizing the sector’s ability to create jobs and value across manufacturing, retail, veterinary care, and allied services. Together, these steps can accelerate India’s journey to becoming a truly better nation for pets and a future export hub for pet food.”

Satinder Singh, general manager, Royal Canin, added, “The sector is already a $720 million industry, growing at double digits annually. Despite this growth, pet food is still seen as discretionary and lacks a clear regulatory identity in India. Giving the sector the recognition it deserves through dedicated regulations will provide clarity for companies and veterinarians, strengthen India’s Make in India initiative and establish the country as a key export hub for global markets, as well as reassure millions of pet parents through consistent, quality, safe, and hygienic food for cats and dogs. When policies treat pet nutrition as essential rather than optional, India will be able to close the nutrition gap and align with global best practices.” On the Day 1 of the WFI event, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries highlighted the pet food sector’s strategic alignment with the Make in India initiative. At the CEO roundtable, the Ministry called for a harmonized, science-backed regulatory framework that would secure nutrition and consumer trust.

The discussion reinforced that regulation must serve as an enabler, supporting balanced growth and positioning India more confidently in the global pet food landscape. World Food India is the Ministry of Food Processing Industries’ flagship international event, serving as a premier platform for stakeholders across the food value chain to connect, collaborate, and invest in India.

Recalling one of the K9 heroes of 9/11 – meet Porkchop, the Aussie Shepherd in all his dusty glory, says Pradeep Verma, editor, Buddy Life.

Here’s Porkchop’s real-life story – true at its core, raw in emotion, and laced with just the right amount of grit. Read on. In the smoking ruins of Ground Zero, amid twisted beams and haunting silence, walked a one-year-old Australian Shepherd named Porkchop. He had no helmet, no boots—just a keen nose, boundless stamina, and the kind of focus born from trust in his handler. His blond coat, dusted with ash, moved like a whisper against the chaos. With Erick Robertson by his side, Porkchop became one of the many four-legged search-andrescue heroes deployed in the largest K9 mobilization in history.

It was early September 2001. The entire USA was reeling as a nation. Erick had travelled from Oakhurst, California to New York as part of a volunteer team. Porkchop, trained in locating human remains, was not built for dramatic rescues—but for something just as vital: giving families closure. Over 350 specially trained dogs came from across the globe to support recovery efforts. Some were experienced veterans of disaster work. Porkchop was still young, raw—but resolute.

He spent long days navigating unstable piles of debris that shifted beneath each paw. The air smelled of burnt plastic and grief. Yet he never hesitated. Porkchop located enough remains to identify at least four victims—each discovery a bittersweet gift to waiting families. Medical teams treated him like any other responder. They flushed his eyes, taped up his sore legs, gave him water, and whispered kindness into his dust-filled ears. “He was part of the team,” Erick said. “They did not treat him as a dog. They treated him as Porkchop.”

Between deployments, Porkchop found moments of escape—chewing acorns, licking ants from the rubble, gazing blankly at Animal Planet on a rescue worker’s TV. Even playfulness has a place in tragedy; sometimes, dogs remind us how to be human. Back home, Porkchop did not receive medals or accolades. He was not on talk shows. But word of his dedication made its way into veterinary journals, canine training circles, and the hearts of those who saw him work.

Porkchop became a quiet symbol of resilience—not just for his actions, but for what they said about the unspoken bond between a dog and its mission. 9/11 changed the world, but it also marked a turning point in how society viewed working dogs. The canine responders were not just companions or assistants—they were frontline heroes. Pork chop and his peers inspired advances in K9 disaster training, handler-dog emotional support, and emergency veterinary care. Years later, when asked about Porkchop’s work, Erick did not romanticize. “He did not save lives. But he saved memories. He gave dignity to the ones who were lost.”

That is what K9 heroism looks like; we at Buddy Life salute this extraordinary display of courage, compassion, and quiet resilience. Porkchop did not just sift through rubble—he uncovered dignity, hope, and the deepest kind of service a dog can give. His story is etched in the legacy of 9/11, reminding us that true heroes sometimes walk on four legs and speak through action, not words.

References: 1. The Wall Street Journal story written by Jared Sandberg on September 25, 2001.

2. The Unsung Heroes of 9/11: Rescue Dogs Remembered; show aired by NBC Today (2021).

3. Godsend: The Vets and Volunteers Who Cared for 9/11 sRescue Dogs – ABC News (online feature).

Home-cooked meals or store-bought kibble? Divya Tanith seeks experts’ help to select healthy choice for your furry friend.

I offer my dog fresh, homemade food, the same way every other family member gets – fresh, wholesome meals,” an avid reader wrote to us. Has not this question haunted the minds of every pet parent across the world at some point?

A general consensus often suggests that processed dog foods are healthier. Others echo sentiments that raise concerns over “processing,” red flags that might do more harm than good. Today, let us review this factually and practically with the help of pet parents and experts. So, what should you feed your fur babies? Homemade meals? Or commercially processed tasty meals? This debate has been raging for decades; let the wagging tales and raised eyebrows rest, as we get to some facts.

The Curious Case of Homemade Food

Who doesn’t like eating fresh, tasty food? Pets definitely do. Those picky eaters sometimes need the smell of delicious fresh meat being boiled while they stare incessantly like it is criminal you have not fed them yet.

Home-cooked meals are like a warm hug! They are fresh and free of artificial preservatives. The best part? You can control the amount of sodium and the ingredients you put into it. It can be customized to your baby’s demands.

Vets and pet nutritionists suggest that a balanced homemade diet should include:

Protein: Chicken, eggs, fish, or paneer

Carbohydrates: Rice, oats, sweet potatoes

Fiber: Carrots, beans, peas

Fats and Omega 3s: Ghee (in small quantities), flaxseed oil

Note: Just making dal chawal, dahi chawal and adding bones to it is not the solution.

The Priority ought to always be nutrition, irrespective of what type of meal you choose. If your fur baby is not getting nutrition from home food, it is not right.

A 2020 study published in Veterinary Record found that over 90% of home-prepared dog meals analysed were nutritionally imbalanced. These were not formulated by a vet or canine nutritionist.

The solution: Research well for your dog breed based on age, height, and weight. Once you have the ideal ingredients you need, pre-prep your meals for ease. You can create a meat stock solution and prep beforehand for ease.

Adding coconut oil and some necessary supplements based on your vet’s suggestion can make a home-cooked meal also nutritious and wholesome. Oh please, your dog is going to lick the bottom of the bowl while furiously wagging its tail.

Why Packaged Food Works

Simple. Because it is science-backed, regulatory-approved. Packaged food, be it kibble or wet food, has been curated by food scientists. It is tough to argue the efficacy of packaged food because it most likely has all the ingredients your dog needs.

Processed dog foods are scientifically designed to meet AAFCO or FEDIAF standards for complete and balanced nutrition. Processed dog food comes in specific formulations: for age groups, breeds, weight control, renal support, or joint health.

Four key reasons why pet parents prefer packaged options:

• Nutritional completeness
• Long shelf life
• Portion control
• Breed-specific needs

What raises eyebrows is the list of unpronounceable ingredients present in them. Not the best kind. This includes fillers, preservatives, and additives. The additives are not the core protein, fat, minerals, or vitamins. These are added to increase shelf life and improve texture, taste, and consistency. While it has its merit in the product, the world is headed towards a more natural way of living.

Did you know? Packaged dog foods often contain added taurine, L-carnitine and prebiotics to aid heart and gut health. These elements are hard to balance in homemade meals without lab testing. Packaged food is balanced and convenient.

What Science Has to Say

A study in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition (2021) showed dogs fed on high-protein commercial diets had better muscle retention and coat quality than those on unbalanced home diets.

But yet another, BMC Veterinary Research (2019) highlighted higher antioxidant intake in dogs fed on home-prepared diets rich in fresh vegetables and fruits.

Another study echoes this sentiment. A study by animal science researchers at California University, done over 12 months, concluded that freshly prepared food and lightly cooked meals are balanced. They also showed an increase in white blood cells and blood protein, hence improving immunity. The results attest to what human nutritionists, too, have been advising for decades – stay clear of heavily processed foods.

In short, nutritional wholesomeness matters more than the format.

Tail End Thoughts

Go hybrid if you have to. Experiment with different types of meals, but always consult your vet.

It’s never a one size fits all. Factors to consider include

• Your time and ability to plan meals
• Your dog’s age, health and allergies
• Access to reliable vet/dietary consultation

If you choose to prepare homemade food, consider consulting a nutritionist. If you choose packaged food, opt for reputable brands.

Do your research and check the ingredient list. Prefer brands that are cleaner.

The best part? Either way, your pet’s wagging tail is the best review you’ll get. So, follow your dog’s tail, trust the science.

Healing Paws the Natural Way: Ayurveda and Homeopathy in Dog Care Across India. In India, pet care is not only limited to modern medicine anymore. There are different types of homeopathy and Ayurveda practices that are gaining the trust of pet parents and becoming a part of their dogs’ daily life. Whether we talk about using neem oil for ticks or belladonna for fever, all are gaining popularity because of their effectiveness. Based on the knowledge of ancient Ayurveda and homeopathy, people use different herbs, oils, massages, and even diet plans to improve overall health and boost the immune system of their dog.

Let’s check out some of the most effective Ayurvedic and homeopathic dog remedies that are widely accepted by dog parents: for Ayurveda, Ashwagandha for anxiety, turmeric for inflammation, and neem oil for ticks; and for homeopathy, Arnica for injuries and Rhus Tox for arthritis. But make sure you have proper knowledge of herbs or expert guidance before using any remedies, as not all herbs and treatments are safe for your dog. The best outcomes come when you combine modern veterinary medicine with holistic care.

Ayurvedic and homeopathic practices help keep your dog’s health more active and happier in natural ways.

It’s quite shocking when you see your adorable dog start barking, growling, and lunging at the leash whenever you try to put it on, and you know this problem has a name—it’s called leash reactivity. It can be common in dogs, especially those who didn’t wear a leash much in their puppy phase, but it can be quite alarming for the owner. So let’s understand what is making your dog react aggressively to the leash and learn how to control it.

Causes of leash aggression
1. Limited movement
Dogs naturally want to move freely, and a leash can limit the movement, which can make them frustrated and lead to barking, lunging at the leash and sometimes even at owner.

2. Fear or Anxiety
Sometimes a dog may feel threatened or anxious but can’t escape from that place because of the leash.

3. Lack of Socialization
Lack of socialization can also result in leash aggression when a dog isn’t used to other dogs or people.

4. Owner Influence
Dogs can sense the nervousness of the owner and want to protect them, but the leash does not allow sufficient movement.

Solutions/Management

1. Reward calm behaviour.

2. Teaching basic commands

3. Proper leash and equipment

4. Gradual desensitization

5. Professional help

Leash aggression is something that you can manage at home; you just require patience and correct techniques. Try to understand your dog’s triggers and provide structured walks that help your dog feel safe and calm.