Pet ownership is both rewarding and time-consuming. Sometimes, we feel guilty when we take on the responsibility and cannot fulfill the duty. If you’re beginning to ponder the idea, though, here’s a quick summary of considerations before owning a small pet to help you make the best decision for your family.
Potential Allergens
One of the most significant considerations before owning a small pet is understanding the potential allergies that can occur. An easy way to rule out the upfront allergens is by exposing your family to your friend’s or family’s pets with similar dander. If nobody notices any increased sniffles, watery eyes, or rashes, it’s safe to say you’re in the clear.
Financial Obligations
Before signing on for a pet of any species or size, you need to understand the financial responsibilities it comes with. If you are already struggling with your children or day-to-day financials, taking on a pet is not in your best interest. There are food and grooming costs and veterinary appointments annually. And sometimes, accidents occur and require emergency expenses.
Cleanliness
Though owning a small pet means formally adopting them as one of the kids, they have quite a way to go before mastering personal hygiene. They bring things into the home like dirt and bugs and might have the occasional accident or two on the carpets or bedding. Not to mention the dander requires continual vacuuming.
What To Do in Your Absence
If you travel for work often or take vacations with the family, you need to think about the best plan for your pet while you’re not home. Keeping your pets safe in your absence is a significant and sometimes scary task.
Consider consulting a neighbor to see if they can help or run through your home to make sure it’s a secure environment. Otherwise, it might be best to wait until you’re more grounded before taking on a small friend.
Regardless of your choice of animal, whether it be a cat, gerbil, or fish, remember to treat them with kindness. Owning a pet is always worth it if you can provide for it.
As communities gather this Sunday, December 7th, to remember, we look back at a single morning that reshaped a nation, examine the causes and consequences of the attack, and reflect on how Hawai‘i and the world carried forward the work of healing and reconciliation.
A Morning That Changed the World
On a clear morning that remains etched into the pages of history, aircraft appeared over Pearl Harbor and the United States Pacific Fleet was struck in a surprise assault. In fewer than two hours, battleships burned, aircraft were destroyed on the ground, and more than 2,400 American service members and civilians lost their lives. The attack thrust the United States into the global conflict of World War II and set in motion a series of events that would transform both the Pacific and the world.
You’ve just become a mom, and suddenly, everything feels different. Your body, your schedule, your entire identity—it’s all been turned upside down. One minute you’re a person with hobbies, friends, and a life outside of caregiving. The next, you’re knee-deep in diapers, sleep deprivation, and endless feeds. You look in the mirror and wonder: Who even am I anymore?
Trucks and SUVs aren’t designed just for driving on paved roads. With the surrounding natural beauty of the Carolinas, you want to explore more of what the states have to offer.
If you're new to horse riding, one aspect you might worry about is safety. This activity involves being on an elevated mount, moving at high speeds, and navigating unpredictable terrain, all things that could lead to injuries if you don't take precautions.
Hydroponic gardening is an innovative way to grow plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water instead. This method can lead to faster growth and higher yields, all from the comfort of your home. Before you dive in, it's important to understand the basics to ensure your gardening journey is a success. This guide will walk you through what you need to know before starting a hydroponic garden, helping you begin with confidence.
