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Family

Winter Beach Biking Adventures With Your Family

December 22, 2021

When the winter blues set in, most people want to find a way out, a way to sunnier climates. Taking a biking tour around the U.S. can provide a much-needed break from the cold and gray skies.

However, with a beach cruiser with fat tires, it is also possible to enjoy snow trails. Still, why stick to the snow if you can find someplace warm to explore?

5 Must-See Beach Winter Retreats

Before heading out on a much-needed winter vacation, ensure your bikes are ready for the trip and explore Sixthreezero promo codes to get deals on newer models or products. The last thing you want is to arrive at a location with a bike that isn’t equipped for the terrain.

If your bike is prepared for the trip, consider some of the best locations for a wintertime getaway. There are at least five warm and worth it resorts for interested parties.

1. Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort

Located on Amelia Island, Florida, the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort is more than a beach resort. It sits in the northeastern part of the state and provides visitors with seven miles of trails and natural surroundings.

You might want to invest in the best beach cruiser bikes for your vacation, as many trails can provide access to off-road exploring. Additionally, beach cruisers allow for comfortable riding.

2. WaterColor Inn and Resort

Located in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, the Watercolor Inn and Resort has several designated bike paths throughout the resort, allowing families to explore Florida’s panhandle. Situated in one of the friendliest towns in all of Florida.

The best part of visiting Watercolor Inn and Resort is there is no need to travel with your bicycles. The resort will have bikes waiting outside your vacation home, rent-free.

3. Grand Cayman Marriot Beach Resort

Grand Cayman is one of the best places for biking, and the Grand Cayman Marriot Beach Resort is located on the famous Seven Mile Beach. If you are not up for the crowds on the famous beach, hop on the West Bay Loop trail to enjoy some peace along with the beautiful sights of secluded beaches and wetlands.

4. Jekyll Island Club Hotel

You will locate the Jekyll Island Club Hotel just off Georgia’s coast and situated on a barrier island. Once an exclusive spot for millionaires, not the hotel is a family-friendly location steeped in history. Enjoy the 20 miles of bike paths on the island, including those that wind through beachscapes.

5. Hyatt Regency Newport Beach

A list of winter getaways would not be complete without listing at least one location from California. The Hyatt Regency at Newport Beach provides picturesque views and access to multiple biking trails, allowing your family to enjoy the beaches, eateries, and shops of one of the most popular places in the U.S.

Keeping Everyone Warm and Happy On Your Adventure

While the above list includes only warm locations, you can also have fun exploring in the cold and snow. You only need to dress the part and make sure you install the proper bicycle tires for ice and snow.

Winter biking is an adventure. Still, before exploring with your family, talk to a local bike shop representative to figure out any must-haves.

 

Filed Under: Family

Common Digestive Issues Affecting Children And Ways To Manage Them

November 30, 2021

Having a child is an exciting chapter in any parents’ life. From having your first scan to seeing them graduate high school, nothing quite beats this adventure of a lifetime! Understandably, you want to do what you can throughout this time to ensure the safety and health of your child. Some of the actions that must be taken to ensure your child is healthy are obvious, whereas others, not so much.

With a whole host of pediatric health conditions that could strike at any moment, you naturally want to be as prepared as possible. None more so than when your child is experiencing issues concerning their digestive tract. One of the critical parts of the human body, common ailments like these, should be addressed as soon as possible.

Generally speaking, it can sometimes take some time for symptoms of these health conditions to emerge. Others, however, can be spotted in earnest. Knowing what you can do as a parent to address these health conditions is crucial, but it can often be challenging to know where to start. This is where we come into the equation!

Detailed within this guide, you will find a list of some common pediatric digestive issues, alongside some common ways of treating or managing them. Read on for more!

Symptoms Of Digestive Issues In Your Child

Diagnosing a digestive issue can be challenging, particularly if it has been present for some time. Understanding what symptoms your child is experiencing and how long they have been around for will go a long way in determining a course of action.

Naturally, the digestive issue that is affecting your child will differ from what is affecting another child. It is always best to treat each instance separately, for much like other health issues, these require different treatment for each. It would be impractical to treat an issue with your stomach using medication that is tailored to the intestine and vice versa.

Common symptoms indicating issues with the digestive tract in your child include the following:

  • Feeling or being sick,
  • Changes to the bowel habits,
  • Changes to appetite,
  • Bleeding

Some of these symptoms can be picked up upon by you as a parent, but others will take communication from your child to determine. When symptoms such as these are present and persistent, you must seek the assistance of a healthcare professional, who will be able to conduct a range of tests. These tests will be able to determine what the cause of the symptoms is and how best to treat them.

Concerning the different pediatric digestive issues that could be troubling your child, this leads us into the next section, where you will learn all about that.

Common Digestive Issues, Causes and Treatments

Learning about what could potentially harm your child is something we feel confident every parent wants to do. Knowing what symptoms to look out for will give you a bigger window of opportunity when seeking medical treatment for your child. Not to mention, you will have a better idea of what treatment will be used for your child and be able to explain and reassure them with this information.

Crohn’s Disease and IBD

This health condition typically falls under the umbrella of Irritable Bowel Disease, also known by the acronym IBD. Crohn’s Disease is a long-term condition that will most likely affect your child for their entire life. While there will most likely be times when the condition is not as bad, it will not disappear. Coming to terms with something like that can be challenging, no matter your age.

This digestive issue occurs when there is redness and swelling present within either or both of the intestines in the body. This digestive issue can also cause sores to develop throughout the digestive tract, which can be uncomfortable and painful.

Unfortunately for those experiencing this digestive issue, many experts are unsure precisely what causes Crohn’s Disease. For the most part, it is thought that this is an immune response from your body that does not seem to end.

Treatment for Crohn’s Disease and other IBDs vary from one case to the next. The main objective is to control and maintain the swelling of the intestines, which, to you and me, can seem a lot easier said than done. Medication is often used, including the likes of steroids and other medications, to control inflammation.

Dietary changes are also thought to alleviate symptoms of Crohn’s and IBD, as certain foods are thought to aggravate the symptoms more than others. An SCD diet, also known as a Specific Carbohydrate Diet, is thought to help manage symptoms associated with digestive issues like this. Free of various nutrients that are thought to cause a flare-up, this guide to the SCD diet from the Ruscio Institute is well worth consulting to determine if this is a potential course of treatment for your child.

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Liver Failure

While it might be hard to wrap your head around the fact that children can experience liver failure, it is worth noting this could impact your child in some way or another. The liver is the largest organ in the body and has several important jobs relating to the overall function of our bodies. As it has so many jobs, various factors can cause it to fail, including a build-up of fat. With an estimated fourteen million children experiencing childhood obesity in the United States, there is no doubt this is a potential risk.

Symptoms of NAFLD in your child include symptoms such as feeling or being sick, abdominal pain, fatigue, and, most notably, jaundice. The symptoms tend to get worse as the liver failure progresses, so naturally, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Much like when treating Crohn’s and IBD, there is a range of treatments available for NAFLD and liver failure in general. IV fluids are administered if the liver failure is thought to be caused by viruses, along with monitoring in a hospital environment. Alongside a whole host of medications, those with the most severe cases of liver failure might require a liver transplant in order to survive.

These can be startling facts to read. No one wants their child to experience these or any other health condition! While we recognize this is the case, it also helps to know what could happen and get ahead of the game. Go forth with a better understanding of what digestive issues could impact your child and what ways you can manage them as a family.

 

Filed Under: Family

4 Tips for Successful Co-Parenting With Your Ex

November 18, 2021

According to statistics, as many as one out of five marriages with children end in divorce. And while you might like to believe that co-parenting with your ex may be easy after getting divorced, most of the time it’s more challenging than not. Being on the same page about your parenting choices can be difficult even in an amicable breakup. However, it’s critical that you both meet eye to eye for the good of your children. If you’re looking for some co-parenting tips for raising wonderful kids together, take a look at some of the best out there.

Be The Bigger Person

When you’re going through a breakup it’s not always easy to put on a brave face. It can be challenging to try and be the perfect parent when you’re suffering inside. It’s OK to give yourself some time to heal so that you don’t act out on your anger. Do some reflecting, and give yourself whatever you need to move on. Enlist the help of friends and family to take breaks when you need it. If the other parent is not ready to be peaceful yet, then do whatever it takes for you to be the bigger person no matter what.

Find Support

You may want to reach out to friends and family members who have also gone through divorces with children who may have some great advice about how to successfully co-parent. The more support you can provide yourself, the more you’ll succeed at being able to be the parent that you want to be. In addition to asking your friends for some mentoring, you may also want to educate yourself with articles and books. Reading tips from the experts can be extremely helpful, and can help you stay in a calm state of mind when your first instinct is to react negatively.

Create a System

One of the best ways to create consistency for your child is to develop a system with your ex for keeping up with your child’s schoolwork and extracurricular activities. Whether it’s using Google Calendar, or keeping a notebook in their backpack that you both contribute to, you need some sort of system in place to stay organized. If the court is still in the process of determining custody, then you may not have a court apponted schedule yet. It’s important that you create a system between the two of you that helps everyone anticipate when the next visiting periods will be.

Don’t Bad Mouth The Other Parent

One of the most important things that you can do is avoid bad-mouthing your ex even if you’re extremely frustrated with their behavior. Your children will feel confused and guilty if they hear one parent speaking badly about the other. If you must let off some steam, do so with a friend, not your child.

 

 

 

Filed Under: Family

How to Remotely Celebrate Milestone Events With Your Friends and Family?

November 11, 2021

COVID-19 slammed the doors shut on all social gatherings in early 2020, but not for long. The world snapped right back into action by making celebrations a virtual event.

According to a Pew Research report, about 32% of US adults attended or hosted a family event, virtual party, or social gathering. Virtual meetings topped the list in the use of the internet since the pandemic struck. While there was a mix of age groups, the 18-29 years age group accounted for 48% of social gatherings on the internet in April 2020. The most common events included were birthdays, graduations, and anniversaries. And in several manners, such events were celebrated like signs for yard were used for celebrating teenage milestones or an online cake cutting ceremony was organized for birthdays and anniversaries.

So, if you have an event or milestone that you want to celebrate with your family, then below are the tips that can help you:

Step 1: Pick A Virtual Meeting Service Provider

When planning any party, the venue is a priority. The same concept applies to a virtual party as well. You need to pick your virtual party platform before you start preparing other aspects of the celebration. Fortunately, you are spoiled for choice with options ranging from a Zoom, House Party, Netflix Party, Captain Fantastic, and so on. Depending on the kind of event and its user features, you can pick the venue.

Step 2: Send E-invites

Parties are pointless without guests. Therefore, you should begin by sending out digital invitations to your guests. Several websites allow you to create fun flyers and invitation cards using animation, text, voice, and video messages. The invite should include the reason for the celebration, time, date, and the platform you will use to connect. If it is a surprise party, you can mention it on your invite so that the guest of honor is not alerted before the event.

Step 3: Pick A Theme

A party without a theme can be boring. With the guests left wondering what to do next, it will be helpful if you plan the theme and agenda for the entire virtual event. For example, you can order personalized graduation signs for yard and let them be displayed throughout the party for a graduation party. You can pick from various services that provide online entertainment to make your party fun and exciting.

Step 4: Send Food Hampers To Your Guests

If your party includes a meal, make sure that all your guests have the same food on their table. You can use a food delivery service to have the same meal delivered to all your guests so that they enjoy the event in real-time. If you plan to cook, you can have the meals provided to your guests in fancy kits to make them feel special.

Step 5: Include Party Giveaways

When sending food hampers, you can also include souvenirs or giveaways that your guests can keep as reminders of the special occasion. It can be a box of cookies, a scented candle, or a bottle of wine.

So, milestones can be made special even when celebrated remotely using the steps mentioned above and ordering personalized themed items such as graduation signs for the yard. Now nothing is stopping you from celebrating important milestones with friends and family.

Filed Under: Family

A Party for the First Year of Life

October 31, 2021

Every parent loves to celebrate their child’s milestones in life. They want to witness their child go through their first-time experiences—their first word, the first day of school, and of course, their first birthday. First birthdays are special because it celebrates the first year of a child’s life. It serves as a milestone for parents and their kids.

 

It can be an exciting moment once a child turns a year old. This excitement may cause parents to want to throw a party for their child’s first birthday. Of course, this is expected given how special this occasion is.

 

Is a Big Party for a First Birthday Necessary?

 

There has been a debate about the intent of throwing a first birthday party. Young children can’t possibly fully comprehend what’s happening around them. They can’t fully enjoy the party being thrown supposedly for them. So why bother throwing a big party at all?

 

Many have agreed that the first birthday benefits the parents more than the kid. This is a great way for them to commemorate their first year as parents. But this is not necessarily the case.

 

A party for a child’s first birthday can be a great way for families and relatives to celebrate. Family members and friends can meet the birthday child and spend time with them, even for a day. Apart from that, this can also be a great experience for the kids in attendance.

 

A party essentially helps them socialize with other kids. This can be an opportunity to learn or practice social skills. And socialization plays several functions in a child’s overall development.
At the end of the day, parents should do whatever they feel is appropriate for their kids. They have all the right to throw their kids a party for their first birthday. They should only ensure that their kids have fun and are comfortable throughout the whole process.

 

The Best Birthday for the First Year of Life

 

Parents should know how they can plan the best first birthday party for their soon-to-be 1-year-old. Of course, this can take a lot of work. Parents should be willing to put in the effort to make this birthday a memorable experience for their children.

 

Highlighting the Star of the Day 

 

While there is a debate about whom the birthday party is for, parents should never dismiss that this day is a celebration of their child’s life. They should take steps to highlight their kid. A first birthday party should be about the children.

 

There are many ways for parents to highlight their kids on their special day. For one, they can dress them up. This makes sure their kids look presentable during their party. Parents can dress up their kids in with the party’s theme. They can even have them wear custom-made birthstone rings and jewelry for kids to commemorate the event.

 

They can also have activities that prompt the birthday child to participate. Activities should be geared towards their child. The more immersive their activities are for their kids, the better.

 

Fun Activities 

 

A child’s first birthday should be a memorable experience for everyone. To do that, they should prepare fun and immersive activities that their kids can enjoy. These activities can also make sure that the other kids in attendance can have an enjoyable moment.

 

These activities can include a wide array of games. Games help kids interact with one another. These games can also induce feelings of enjoyment for the kids.

 

There is a wide range of activities that kids can do during a birthday party. Some of these can be dangerous. With that, parents should always make sure their kids and their guests are safe.

 

Picking a Theme 

 

It may add more flavor to the party if parents would work with a theme. Themed parties make the event more exciting and interesting. This can also help parents organize the party better. The outfits and activities for the kids can also be based on their chosen theme.

 

Don’t Forget To Send the Invites 

 

Every big party needs guests. Parents should never forget to send out the invitations. Occasions such as this require the attendance of special people. Of course. Family and relatives should be present.

 

But it would be fun to invite friends and family who have kids of their own. This helps in fostering a fun and playful environment during the birthday party. Apart from that, it can also help their child interact more with other kids. This can help form potential friendships in the future.

 

A child’s first year is already a huge accomplishment for both the parents and the child. This feat deserves to be celebrated in any way the parents see fit. They should only ensure that their children enjoy their special day.

 

 

Filed Under: Family

How to prepare your child for the best night’s sleep

October 28, 2021

As growing kids need restful, unbroken sleep each night, you may be wondering how to prepare your child for the best night’s sleep, as a caring parent. If you are having difficulty settling your child into a bedtime routine, simply continue reading to discover a handy guide which will help you prepare your child for the best night’s sleep.

Establish a bedtime:

Just like adults, kids sleep better if they have an established bed time, which their body will get used to. So it’s a great idea to set a regular bedtime for your child. Alternatively, you may want to set one bed time for school nights and one bed time for Friday and Saturday nights, when you may allow your child to stay up a little later as a treat.

Create a bedtime routine:

Another way to get your child in the mood to go to sleep each night is to go through a bedtime routine. For example, you may want to get your child to tidy away their toys, before having a bubble bath, brushing their teeth and winding down with a bedtime story. If your kid loves being read to, they won’t mind getting ready for bed each night if they are allowed to pick one book each night for story time.

Ban electronic devices for the two hours before your child’s established bed time:

As screens such as televisions, smart phones, laptops and tablets give off blue light which will stimulate your child’s brain, in order for your child to be able to fall asleep quickly, it’s a wise idea to ban electronic devices for the two hours before your child’s bedtime.

Make sure that your child has a comfortable bed or cot:

It’s a great idea to ensure that your child has a comfortable bed or cot as well as comfortable bedding. So that your child will feel warm and cozy and will have no trouble falling asleep.

Purchase cozy pajamas for your child:

As well as a comfortable bed or cot and cozy bedding, it’s also a smart idea to purchase a few pairs of cozy pyjamas for your child. For example, in the cold winter months, you may want to opt for flannel pyjamas or an adorable onesie. Or you may want to pick out organic cotton baby pyjamas to sleep in. You may even want to get your child to pick out their own pyjamas.

Use a night light if your child is afraid of the dark:

If your child is afraid of the dark, they’re not alone as many kids are fearful of the dark. One way to ensure that your child feels comfortable sleeping at night is to purchase a night light. Which you’ll be able to plug into a wall socket in your child’s bedroom.

So if you want to ensure that you’re doing everything that you can to encourage your child to sleep through the night, each night, it’s well worth following all of the tips that are listed above.

 

Filed Under: Family

How to Spot the Difference Between ADHD and OCD in Children

October 26, 2021

You may think that there are obvious differences between ADHD and OCD, but the challenging thing is that they can present similarly in children, which makes it harder to diagnose and treat the problem. In general, a kid with ADHD is impulsive and easily distracted, while a child with OCD has a need that their environment and homework be just right.

The thing is that the way these things show up can mimic both disorders, and some children have a combination of both. Having a better understanding of the symptoms and motivations of each one helps to determine the best treatment plan, such as Brillia for kids.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a chronic condition that often starts in childhood and can continue with ADHD symptoms in women and men. Symptoms may lessen as someone gets older, which means that it is easier to diagnose in children. Common signs and symptoms include:

  • Fidgeting and difficulty sitting for long periods of time
  • Talking a lot
  • Difficulty paying attention
  • Difficulty completing a task
  • Easily distracted
  • Avoidance of tasks that require mental focus

A child may present with more inattentive symptoms, hyperactive symptoms, or a combination.

Spotting the Signs Going Back-to-School

School is a good place to recognize signs of both ADHD and OCD. Teachers may notice that a child has trouble paying attention, staying still, finishing homework, blurting out answers in class, or interrupting others during an activity. These are classic signs of ADHD.

For children who may be struggling with OCD, teachers and parents may notice that a child is obsessed with germs, is preoccupied with exactness and order, is too worried about detail, worries excessively, or has repeated doubts.

Both children with ADHD and those with OCD have difficulty finishing tasks. Those with ADHD are usually too distracted and are unable to focus long enough to complete something, while kids with OCD are so focused on something and on things being perfect that they become overloaded.

Prioritizing is also a problem for children with either disorder, especially when it comes to note-taking. Those with ADHD struggle with keeping up with the lecture and have working memory problems. Children with OCD feel the need to take down everything because they want the notes to be complete. Poor note-taking skills often has a negative effect on homework and test results.

Treatment Options

There is no cure for either disorder, but there are certain methods that reduce symptoms and help the child cope. Therapy is often combined with medication. The types of therapies may include behavior, family, and psychological. Parenting and social skills training may also be beneficial.

Stimulants are often prescribed for ADHD, while selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are common for those with OCD. Unfortunately, these meds all come with side effects and can have long-term effects. As an alternative, there are homeopathic medications that help with symptom management. The good news about Brillia side effects is that there are no harmful ones because the meds target only on the protein that causes the symptoms and leaves the other bodily functions and symptoms alone.

Filed Under: Family

5 Tips for Staying Healthy At Home With Your Family

October 4, 2021

If you have a family, one of your biggest responsibilities is protecting them from any harm that could befall them, including infections and chronic lifestyle diseases. Keeping your family healthy and happy can be an arduous undertaking, but it’s a core duty for every parent.

The importance of this perhaps became more apparent during the COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions that forced most households to stay indoors, spending more time together than ever before. Below are five tips to keep your family healthy at home.

1. Exercise From Home

Staying active is crucial for the overall well-being of every member of your family, despite their age. This is why parents and guardians should encourage healthy levels of exercise in and out of the home. Most people shy away from exercising regularly because it’s time-consuming, tiresome, and often requires a lot of commitment. However, exercising doesn’t always have to be an uphill task.

You don’t have to go to the gym to get the exercise you need; there are lots of bodyweight exercises you do from home, even without workout equipment. As long as you have a smartphone, all you need is a home fitness workout app.

The perks of technology in the fitness world don’t stop there. If you or a family member is after some explosive fitness gains, they can try one of these superhero workout routines from popular movies and TV shows. From cardio to weight lifting, triceps dips, and other free-body workouts, there are numerous exercises you can do at home as a family.

2. Engage in Fun Activities Together

Talk with your family about playing hide-n-seek, racing up their stairs, walking, or skipping a rope. Over the weekends, you could also have hula hoop contests, bike riding, skating. The list of fun activities you can have while at home with your family is nearly endless. Moreover, these also double up as exercise, which boosts everyone’s physical, mental, and emotional health.

3. Ensure a Healthy Diet

The benefits of consuming a healthy nutritious diet cannot be overemphasized. A balanced diet supplies your body with the right nutrients to keep it nourished and working efficiently. To maintain optimal health, ensure the meals are prepared at home. They should include healthy fats, vitamins, carbohydrates, and proteins at the very least. Encourage portion control, insisting that each member of your family observes their daily calorie intake where possible.

4. Sleep

Prioritizing your family’s sleep is vital for good health. A lack of sleep can lead to health conditions such as heart disease, weight gain, stress, diabetes, and blood pressure. Quality sleep should be at least seven to nine hours for adults, and more for children each day.

5. Healthy Surroundings

Don’t forget to provide a clean environment, healthy indoor air, and safe drinking water. Occasionally, take your family out for lunch, dinner, or outdoor activities over the weekends when you get the chance. This can help improve bonding between family members while alleviating or eliminating stress. Most outdoor activities are also great for promoting physical and mental fitness.

Staying healthy does not have to be a tall order while at home with your family. Hopefully, the tips above will help encourage good living and decent health for everyone in your family.

 

Filed Under: Family

4 Tips For Widowed Parents

October 4, 2021

As a parent who has lost your spouse, you may find yourself facing a lot of challenges. After all, being a widowed parent isn’t easy, especially if you have to plan funeral services on top of taking care of your duties as a parent. Despite the grief you and your child may be feeling, it’s possible to navigate the difficulties of being a widower and parent. Read on to find out some of the best tips to survive.

Find a Support System

It’s impossible to expect yourself to be able to take it all on alone. It’s essential that you find a support system to help you during this trying time. Whether it’s with other family members or friends, don’t be afraid to share the load with someone else. Shower your child with plenty of attention and love from everyone who is willing to help. The more love and affection you can give them from people in your circle, the less pressure you’ll feel on yourself to have to do it on your own when it feels impossible.

Keep Up With Routines

When you go through something as jolting as the depth of the other parent, the last thing you may want to do is follow a routine. There are some days when all you want to do is stay in bed and put the covers over your face. However, children need structure to give them a sense of regularity during a difficult time. A consistent atmosphere makes your children feel more stable and helps them know what to expect every day. The more routine you can provide the better.

Give Yourself Breaks

You may put a considerable amount of pressure on yourself to do everything and anything possible to ensure that your kids are OK. However, putting too much pressure on yourself may only wind up hurting you in the end. Don’t forget to give yourself space to breathe and take breaks. Slow down and remember that it’s going to take some time to get back to the way things once were. Don’t go back to work too soon or force yourself to go to social obligations that you’re not realistically ready for. Pushing yourself too hard too soon could lead to a backlash.

Find The Joy

When you’re going through something as difficult as the death of a loved one, it’s important that you try to find joy wherever possible. Sources of joy may be different depending on who you are. Some people may find joy watching a funny movie, while others may find joy in going for a long walk. Whatever it takes to find a moment of happiness during such a difficult time, embrace it and expose yourself to it as much as possible. It’s not uncommon for people going through grief to think that they’re not allowed to feel happy sometimes. Quite the opposite— give yourself time and be patient. After a while, you will slowly heal and so will your children

Filed Under: Family

Everything You Need to Know Before Getting a Family Dog

September 28, 2021

If your kids are constantly asking for their own dog, it can be hard to say no. Having a dog is hard work, but it can also be a rewarding experience and an amazing addition to the family. It is no easy choice deciding whether to get a family dog but learning as much as possible about what to expect beforehand can help you to weigh up the pros and cons and decide whether to get your own pooch. Below is everything you need to know before getting a family dog.

Making Your Home Dog-Friendly

Before you buy or adopt a pet, you need to make sure your house is pet-friendly. This means blocking any areas you don’t want the dog to reach, keeping toxic products out of the way, and making sure to cover any expensive furniture. You need to come to terms with the fact that your dog may break, scratch, or bite some of your furniture, especially if they aren’t trained or you are getting a puppy. Making your home dog-friendly can help minimize this risk, as can dog training classes.

The Costs

Dogs are not cheap. Once you have bought your dog and all the supplies you need for them, there are additional running costs that you will need to pay each month. This includes food, treats, toys, dog walking (if you have a busy home), and pet insurance. There is also the added cost of vet bills when your pup needs immunizations or neutering. Pet insurance can help with some of these costs but be careful to read the terms and conditions to see what is covered and what is not. When it comes to your dog’s health, nothing will be too much of a price to pay. Consider setting up a savings fund for emergency situations.

Keeping Your Dog Healthy

If you want to keep your dog healthy and minimize any vet bills, you need to know what they eat, how long they need to exercise, and any other healthcare requirements they have. If you don’t get a pup, make sure you check their previous health records if they have any, so you know they have all their immunizations. Every dog breed is different, and some are more active than others, meaning they need more time outside exercising to remain healthy.

When it comes to dog food, buying the cheapest food could lead to dog constipation or other health concerns. Organic pet supplements from Native Pet offer functional and targeted nutrition, aimed at keeping your dog healthy, which will improve your dog’s life. You can shop for supplements for a dog’s skin and coat, their belly and bladder, and more. If they aren’t well, organic pet supplements can help get them back to their usual, happy self.

Researching Breeds

If you are really considering buying or adopting a dog, you should start researching the types of breeds. This way you can see what would be best for your family dynamic and the time you have. If you enjoy getting outside often for nature walks, an active dog could be a great addition to the family. If you have only have a small house or apartment, it’s best to get a smaller dog that won’t take up as much room. If you have small children, this is something to take into consideration too. Researching breeds is easy, as there is so much information online for free. You can watch YouTube videos, read articles, or ask other dog owners for advice and support.

Dogs Are Time-Consuming

Before you get a dog, you must understand that they are time-consuming. Whilst you will love your little friend to the moon and back, there will be times where you may find it a bit too much if you also have a busy work and life schedule. This means you may need to put some money aside to hire a dog walker, to make sure your dog gets the exercise and attention it needs. If you get a pup, you will need to spend a lot of time training it to begin with.

With a dog, you can’t just have a spontaneous night away, as you still need to get home, let the dog out to go toilet, exercise, and feed it. This also can make going on holiday more expensive, as you will need to use kennels unless you are lucky enough to have family or friends who will take care of it for you. These are all things you need to seriously consider before getting a dog. That being said, if you are ready to take care of it, you will have a beautiful friend for many years.

Whilst dogs require a lot of care and attention, they sure do give it back. If you understand the pros and cons and are still interested in getting a dog, start researching breeds and see whether a pup or an older dog would be ideal for you.

 

Filed Under: Family

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Trish here! I’m a stay at home mom, a writer, a blogger. I love my family – three kids and a husband. We also have a cat and a dog. Our household can seem pretty busy at times, but everyone always pitches in to help out Read More…

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