These are the Big Bang, the solar system, and the theory of relativity. They form the bedrock of space knowledge. Having even a basic grasp on these topics will give you a great jumping-off point for learning more.  Visit your local library to find books about space and consult online encyclopedias. Libraries and civic center often have lectures and presentations on educational topics, including space. Take an introductory class on astronomy at your school. There have been very entertaining and informative shows produced about space. Check out the Cosmos series, the older episodes hosted by famed cosmologist Carl Sagan, as well as the most recent version with physicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. Another great option is The Universe on the History Channel. Popular culture is full of science fiction themed shows and literature that deal with space. While these are works of fiction, they can be based on science and quite educational. It's a great starting point, especially if you find traditional learning to be boring.  Start with shows like Star Trek, Firefly, and Lost in Space.  There is a wealth of classic literature about space travel. Perhaps the best and most well known novel is 2001: A Space Odyssey by Arthur C. Clarke. Other writers include Philip K. Dick, Isaac Asimov, and Robert Heinlein. Distances in spaces are enormous and hard for the human brain to understand. Check out this interactive visualization to help put things in perspective: http://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap120312.html. The International Space Station, the Juno mission to Jupiter, and Curiosity Mars Rover are happening right now. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is the world leader in space exploration. As a large, government-funded organization, it is always conducting research and planning for future missions. Also check out educational videos about the current projects happening at NASA  at: https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/NASA. There are locations throughout the country including the Space Center in Houston, the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, and the Jet Propulsion Lab in California, among others. The complete list of facilities is can be found at: http://www.visitnasa.com/nasa-visitor-centers.

Summary: Study the major points about space. Watch educational shows about space. Plug into pop culture. Grasp the size of the universe. Read about space current missions. Visit a NASA facility.


Bruises happen when you bleed under your skin. Since a dog with low platelets has blood that doesn't clot correctly, bruises can occur due to your pet's normal activities, like playing or going for a walk. Keep in mind that a single bruise doesn't mean your dog is sick. You may notice the dog lying around a lot, and it might not be as interested in play. Additionally, it may resist going for a walk or playing with its favorite toys. If your dog seems generally tired and uninterested, it likely needs a vet check. There are many different causes for lethargy in dogs, so don't assume your dog has a low platelet count. Its nose may feel extra wet and sticky, or you may see the mucus dripping down its nose. Also, your dog may wipe its mucus on its fur or around your home, so be on the lookout for mucus streaks. Like with the other symptoms of low platelet counts, mucus streaks have other causes, as well. Excessive mucus may lead to coughing, which won't go away easily. Your dog's cough may sound like a hacking cough or might produce phlegm. If your dog is coughing, you need to take it to the vet to find out why, regardless of the cause. This happens from blood in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. If your dog's blood isn't clotting right, then it may have bleeding in its digestive system, which will result in very black feces. You might be very scared when you see your dog's poop change colors like this, but there's no need to panic. Your vet can find out what's causing your dog's symptoms and then treat them. Don't try to take your dog's temperature or pulse yourself. It's very easy to make a mistake when you aren't trained. Instead, ask your vet to evaluate your dog to see if it has these symptoms. It's not safe to take your dog's temperature at home, as the dog might move and get injured. Furthermore, feeling the dog's nose or ears is not a reliable way to take its temperature. Both of these serious symptoms require immediate vet care. However, your vet may still be able to help your dog recover if you get it treated in time. If it's after your vet's normal office hours, search online to find out if there's a 24-hour emergency vet service in your area.


Summary: Watch for sudden, unexplained bruising. Notice if your dog seems lethargic. Check your dog's nose for excessive mucus. Watch your dog for excessive coughing. Notice if your dog has dark, tar-like stools. Ask your vet to check your dog for a fever or heart murmur. See your vet immediately if your dog collapses or has urinary bleeding.