Are You Ready for Fido? How to Decide if Your Family Can Care for a Pet
IS YOUR FAMILY READY?
While we don’t know exactly why humans keep pets, one fact is certain: Millions of people love them. In fact, nearly 70 percent of households in the U.S. have a pet. But no matter what you see on your favorite dog Instagram accounts, keeping a pet isn’t endless playtime. Ask yourself the following questions before buying or adopting a furry companion.
Every family is different, and it’s important to have an honest discussion about the implications of owning a pet. If you have kids, consider how much they will be able to contribute to such a responsibility. Another factor to consider is howmuch free time you have to spend with your pet; some animals require more attention than others. To avoid major conflict down the road, discuss care and responsibility plans as a family before welcoming an animal into your home. Keeping a pet can be a source of joy for your family, but it can also be a source of stress. Before making any major choice, talk to your family members and consider what owning a pet would mean for all of you.
DO YOU KNOWWHAT YOU’RE GETTING INTO?
Owning a pet can change your lifestyle. To start, you will have to consider the animal’s well-being when hosting events or taking vacations. You will also have to make room in your budget for pet-related expenses. Additionally, some animals can live for upward of two decades. Discuss how responsibilities will change as a pet ages and what your future will look like before making the commitment.
DOES AN ANIMAL FIT YOUR LIFESTYLE?
When choosing a pet for your family, gather research from animal experts and other pet owners. Calculate the cost of owning a pet, and evaluate how that animal will fit into your lifestyle. For example, dogs are one of the most high-maintenance and expensive animals to own, but they tend to be more involved in family life than a cat or a hamster. That said, your home’s size and location may make it better suited for a smaller pet, as many larger animals require more square footage and plenty of outdoor space.
Take a Break!
EVERYTHING POPCORN
Everything is the best bagel flavor. This is not a matter of debate. Sprinkle the seasoning on popcorn for a delicious snack that will have people asking, “What does this remind me of?”
Ingredients
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2 teaspoons granulated garlic
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3/4 cup popcorn kernels
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2 teaspoons granulated onion
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2 tablespoons flaky sea salt
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1/3 cup canola oil
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1 teaspoon black sesame seeds
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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2 teaspoons white sesame seeds
Directions
until corn kernels start to pop. Once popping, continue cooking and shaking the pan intermittently until popping ceases, about 3–5 minutes. 3. Transfer popcorn to a large
1. In a small skillet over medium heat, toast sesame seeds. Shake skillet often and cook until white seeds are golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl and add garlic, onion, and salt. 2. In a large saucepan, combine
mixing bowl. Pour in butter and toss to coat. Finally, add seasoning, toss again, and serve.
corn kernels and oil. Cook over medium-high heat, covered,
Inspired by Food & Wine magazine
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