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Home Sweet Home

Is piano hard to learn?

Whether you have more free time on your hands due to the pandemic or are simply on the lookout to hone a new skill, there are many benefits of playing an instrument such as the piano. For example, playing the piano is a great way to relieve feelings of stress and anxiety or to express yourself through music.

 

However, many budding instrumentalists decide to put-off learning to play the piano since it seems difficult. After all, in order to play successfully, you have to be able to read music, position your hands correctly and know exactly which notes are which. However, this does not mean that learning is out of the question – even as you get a little older.

 

While many parents encourage their children to learn to play an instrument as an extracurricular activity, there are many well-documented benefits of learning to play as an adult too. As mentioned previously, it’s a great way to relieve stress. Furthermore, as an adult, you are much less likely to get distracted when attempting to learn a new skill, meaning that you’ll see results far quicker than you would have done as a child. Furthermore, a recent study from Forbes found that picking up music as an adult may boost your memory.

 

Furthermore, there are plenty of steps you can take to make the process of learning an instrument a little easier.

 

  • While there are many self-taught musicians out there, don’t underestimate the impact private lessons can have on your ability to play. This is due to the fact that you’ll be able to receive direct guidance from a highly-qualified pianist, making it easier for you to pick up certain skills or techniques.

 

  • While there are plenty of articles debunking the idea that it takes 10,000 years to perfect a skill, there is no denying that practice makes perfect. As a result, if you are serious about learning to play the piano, you should ensure you practice as frequently as possible. Remember, this does not mean that you have to spend hours behind the piano every single day – as little as 20 minutes each evening can help you develop new skills. Of course, you should ensure that you are comfortable when playing, so you may wish to get yourself an Adjustable Artist Piano Bench so that you can be in full control of its height, and so that friends who also play will be able to use the stool when they come round to your place.

 

  • Watching piano tutorials online is another great way in which you can improve your own skills as a pianist. This is due to the fact that you can use these tutorials to assess whether or not you are placing your hands correctly or playing the right notes. It also gives you the chance to play your favourite songs, which could also make playing a lot more fun. The more fun you are having, the longer you’ll be willing to practice.

 

  • Remember that playing an instrument is not only about learning the notes – as learning how to read music will also have a great impact on your ability to play music. As a result, you should study sheet music and online guides that can help you learn to read music. This is a skill that, once acquired, will never leave you.
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Home Sweet Home

Top 5 Ways to Make a Statement at Home

When it comes to living in the same place day in and day out, life can feel pretty monotonous. Everyone needs a change in scenery now and then to help them appreciate what they have. Not many people can afford to splash out on a new home or costly renovations, luckily there are ways to jazz up the home without breaking the bank. Here are a few ways you can make a statement and breathe new life into your home.

Victorian Style Floor Tiles

One of the easiest ways to make a statement is by revamping your flooring and changing it up to Victorian style floor tiles is an excellent way to do it. Although replacing the flooring sounds like a huge expense, investing in a good product can save you money in the long run. High-quality floor tiles are durable, hard-wearing, and they are easy to clean too. Not to mention, you have an array of styles and designs to choose from. Whether you prefer traditional Victorian or Edwardian patterns, or you want a bespoke design, there are retailers that can help you pick the right tiles for your needs. For more information, visit originalfeatures.co.uk.

Conversation-Starting Artwork

Artwork in the home reflects the character of a homeowner and can add personality to a lifeless house. Art is incredibly personal, which makes it a meaningful decoration to add to your living space. It is excellent for personal enjoyment, but it also makes an excellent conversation starter during parties. Hang up artwork to decorate dull walls or display a standing piece in a prominent place in the home.

Decorative Stained Glass Windows

Add colour and elegance to your home with beautiful, stained glass windows. Stained glass can be used to elevate the ambience of a home and can often hold its own as the focal point of a room. Not to mention, stained glass is ideal for people who want a level of privacy but don’t want to compromise on light. For example, stained glass panels can be fitted to entry doors. They will allow light to shine in but will also stop people from peeping in.

Cosy Fireplace

The smell of wood and the sound of a crackling fire give a home the feeling of warmth and comfort, which is why a cosy outdoor fireplace is an excellent addition to any home. This majestic feature, which, by the way, can be constructed by firms like FSBD (interested individuals can click here to learn more about them), is both aesthetically pleasing and practical. They can help you stay warm in the colder months and also maintain the beauty of your house all year round. There are many designs to choose from. Although wood-fired fireplaces are a classic choice, flueless gas fireplaces can be equally attractive.

Add Greenery

Adding a natural touch to the home is a great way to liven it up. Leafy, green plants, such as snake plants and philodendrons, are low maintenance and can add a pop of colour to a room. Furthermore, they can oxygenate your space and make it healthier to live in.

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Home Sweet Home

Benefits of Using Wooden Utensils

The kitchen is one of the pivotal places in your home. Cooking not only helps to nourish the body, but it brings people together. And good food is only made and served when the people behind them have invested their time and effort into making it.

All of that starts with the setting. People cannot make glorious food ready to be consumed, in a kitchen that isn’t well equipped to do so. People who love to cook take pride in their kitchens and it is obvious when you enter their home. Their kitchen units, counters, draws, etc., are all made to service their needs so that they can seamlessly make something spectacular within those walls.

Not many people realise that a good kitchen influences the food around them. Some may think that custom cabinetry isn’t going to make a difference, but it really does. Making a kitchen easier to use means that food creation is not a task or a serious chore that puts people off doing it again. It can do so much with something that may not be noticeable to the non-cook in the home.

The same can be said for the kitchen appliances and tools within this space.

You have to use the ideal appliances and tools to do things safely. Of these, we’re going to focus on wooden utensils today. So, here are some benefits of using wooden utensils.

Long-Lasting

When you cook with wooden utensils, they last longer. Let’s say you get some wooden petite bowls for your kitchen. They’ll last much longer because they’re hard to break and can hold food much better than plastic.

Not to mention, they don’t get scratches like other utensils. They won’t scratch your stainless steel pots and pans, which may be expensive to buy. You won’t have to hear that loud scraping noise when you’re mixing up a dish.

You can also keep your other utensils in good standing when you put your wooden forks and spoons with the rest of your kitchenware. It’ll be easier to clean because it doesn’t build up residue or get burn marks on it from using it over time.

Heat Resistant

You want to be safe while using your utensils. Metal is a heavy heat conductor. However, wooden utensils are heat resistant, which prevents you from burning your hand.

You won’t have to worry about utensil melting if you leave it in the pan at high heat.

Also, plastic is the same temperature if you put it in boiling water. The plastic melts and can cause damage to you and your pot as well.

Find wooden utensils that you’re comfortable with using and can help you keep the heat away.

Doesn’t Contaminate Your Food

When you use pine or other woods, they can help kill bacteria. It’s imperative to use these while cooking to prevent contaminating your food.

You won’t use plastic, which has harmful substances in it that would dissolve into your food. While it may not matter now, digesting this material over time can lead to future health problems.

You don’t have to worry about wood melting or chipping while you’re cooking food for a while.

More-Eco Friendly

If you’re more nature-conscious, wood is a better material to use for your kitchen. You can find them biodegradable and renewable as well. It doesn’t use as many resources like metal or plastic ones.

It may cause a chemical reaction with the heat and oils from food, which leads to poor indigestion.

Think about using eco-friendly utensils to help create a better environment for your kitchen.

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Home Sweet Home

Creating a dreamy bedroom for a better night’s sleep

Unless you’re one of the lucky few that can hit the hay and be asleep within minutes, it’s likely you struggle to switch off and drift off.

There is a lot of information online about nighttime activities and how these can impact our sleep: It’s recommended you avoid scrolling on your phone, read before bed or get up for a distraction if you’re tossing and turning.

But this isn’t the only way you can improve your chances of a good night’s sleep.

Eating the right foods and even reorganising your room can help.

This is why this post is all about how you can improve your bedroom layout and make it a dreamy space for a snooze.

  • Declutter and Use Self Storage

Almost every article about redecorating and cleaning your house will start with good declutter. Keeping your bedroom neat and clean is the first step to a decluttered mind. How can you relax when there is so much stuff around?

There are even studies that prove those who try to sleep in a cluttered space will struggle and take much longer to fall asleep.

If you’re prone to sleepwalking, decluttering will certainly stop you from getting injured as you head out on your midnight stroll too…

On a serious note, decluttering is essential to keeping yourself in a good mood every time you enter your bedroom. Nobody likes to spend time in a room with a pile of items lying/ scattered on the floor. This only makes the occupants feel restless. Wondering how to go about decluttering? Start by categorizing clutter into “needed” and “not needed now/seasonal items”.

Those which are needed should be organized properly. The ones which are not needed all year round can be stored in a self-storage unit, heavily guarded by locks that can be only opened by those with the self storage gate access. This can be a more secure and affordable option compared to buying furniture pieces which can cost you a fortune and may not have the latest in-built locks to protect your belongings from theft.

  • Essential oils

A lot of people swear by using lavender and other essential oils to help them fall asleep. Lavender is particularly good for calming anxiety – ultimately making it much easier to drop off. Using a scented candle as you wind down (probably not a good idea to fall asleep with the candle still on!), some incense or essential oils might be exactly what you need.

Alternatively, musty or stuffy air can also make it hard to sleep, so let in the freshness by opening your bedroom windows during the day.

  • Re-paint

Author of The Doctor’s Guide to Sleep Solutions for Stress & Anxiety (catchy), Dr. Robert S. Rosenberg, says cooling blues and greens are the best for helping you feel relaxed before bed. There is a lot of psychology to be learned about paint colours and how it impacts your mood. Reds or purples in the bedroom can create a more stressful or irritating feeling – which is less than ideal.

  • Invest in your sleep

A good mattress is key to a good night’s sleep. You’ve likely heard of Princess and the Pea, and while it might not be a green pod keeping you awake, even the slightest difference in mattress firmness can significantly impact your quality of sleep. If you are looking for a mattress that provides that extra level of support you might want to consider investing in an orthopaedic mattress. MyNextMattress are a leading retailer of quality mattresses and stock Sealy mattresses which are approved by the NBF (National Bed Federation). You are guaranteed a good night’s sleep with a Sealy mattress or a Sealy bed which has been proven by thousands all across the globe! Explore the full Sealy mattresses by clicking here.

  • Sort out your bedding

When was the last time you actually cleaned your sheets?

Take it even further, and when was the last time you thought about vacuuming your mattress?

Probably never…

Well, as you probably know just how good fresh sheets feel, this should be enough to get you to regularly change your bedding – and it can certainly help you fall into a snooze.

What’s more, although you might not realise it, there could be allergens in your room that are causing your restlessness. If you’ve noticed your breathing is a little off, or you’re more sniffly than usually, vacuuming your mattress, duvet and pillows may just alleviate the symptoms.

Hopefully, this guide has given you a few new tricks to try. Or perhaps this post was so boring; it’s sent you straight to sleep! Either way, our work is done.

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Home Sweet Home Lifestyle Parenting Tips

Some Helpful Tips For Storing Baby Formula

Infant formula helps many moms who, for certain reasons, have not been able to breastfeed. Unlike breast milk, which is perfect in composition and temperature, sterile, ready-made baby formula can get bacteria. Avoid this and help the rules of storage, breach which is extremely undesirable.

Proper storage of food, whether it’s store-bought or homemade, is the most important aspect which affects the health of the baby. During the introduction of complementary foods, you need to study how much baby food can be stored in the refrigerator and how long ready-made porridge can be stored.

Each manufacturer specifies the storage conditions, the shelf life of the infant formula. And here everything is not so simple. Violation of the norms can lead to various consequences: from mild indigestion to severe poisoning of the child. So you need to study this issue well and strictly follow the instructions provided by the baby food manufacturer. A good option for baby food is HiPP formula and Holle baby formula. The packaging of these manufacturers has detailed instructions on how to use the product, which even a child can understand.

The Rules for Storing Baby Milk Formulas

The rules for storing dry and liquid infant formula are different. When storing dry baby formula before and after opening the jar, two important conditions must be considered – temperature and humidity: the food should not be stored near heating appliances (stove, oven, hoods) and sources of moisture and condensation (sink, refrigerator). Only unopened jars can be stored in the refrigerator, but the packaging can get damp.

If you have an opened packet of baby formula, you could consider freeze drying it, depending on the nature of its ingredients. The shelf life of freeze dried food tend to be much higher than regular, fresh food. But you’d want to note that it might affect the nutrient level when stored for a long time. As this method is commonly used to preserve breast milk, you should consult a doctor before you decide to store the formula through this method.

Also bear in mind that the integrity of the packaging is important. If the jar (packaging) is wrinkled, torn, with flecks of rust, it is better to refuse from such a product. It is undesirable to simply pour the mixture over, especially in jars of other manufacturers. If it is very necessary to pour the food in an emergency, then select a suitable container.

It is also important to avoid unwanted proximity:

  1. When baby food is placed alongside cereal, there is a risk of food bugs;
  2. Some products have a very pronounced smell and can saturate the mixture stored nearby with it;
  3. And of course, the neighborhood with household chemicals, categorically not allowed.

Pay Attention to the Expiration Date Of Any Products

On average, the shelf life of an open mixture is three weeks. This is the optimal period, after which the mixture is considered spoiled. After all, in contact with air, vitamins and useful elements decay, so the mixture is of no value after the expiration date.

It is not necessary to store the diluted formula in a bottle at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Each time a fresh portion is prepared in the amount needed for one feeding at a time: cooked and immediately fed. After all, bacteria are actively multiplying in a warm environment, so such a mixture is simply dangerous if used repeatedly.

An important fact, do not pour the dry mixture with boiling water so as not to destroy the vitamins and live cultures of lactobacilli. Use boiled water that has been cooled to about 40 C. Milk mixtures dissolve better in this water. To reach the desired temperature of 40 C, place the measuring cup with the boiling water in a container of cold water for a few minutes.

There Is Always The Way Out

Many moms who often travel with their babies wonder how to keep baby food warm. You can wrap the bottle in several layers of parchment paper or foil. The second option is to dilute the mixture with hotter water, and wait until it cools to an acceptable temperature. The best option is considered a bottle thermos bag. In this bag you can put a thermos of hot water and dry formula to make fresh food for the baby.

We advise you to adhere to all the rules and conditions for storing the formula, which the manufacturer writes about, and not to use the formula after the expiration date. The effects of expired baby food on children’s health are unpredictable.

It is also better not to buy formula with a short remaining shelf life for discounts and promotions, if you are not sure that your baby will have time to eat it in such quantity.

So the importance of the topic of baby food storage is undeniable. Babies need to be fed only freshly prepared milk formula. This is not an area where you need to save money. The health of the digestive system and other vital systems of the child’s body will depend on compliance with simple rules for storage and use of formulas, as well as basic rules of hygiene. Proper nutrition from birth is the key to health and in adulthood.

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Home Sweet Home

How to Remodel a Bathroom with Smart Appliances

Know the cost of remodeling a bathroom

It is not necessary to remove the current bathroom fixtures. You can change your existing shower or tub into a different one at less than half the cost of installing an entirely new bathroom. The labor involved in this project would depend on whether you want a wholly remodeled look or just a better-functioning bathroom that looks like it was built from scratch.

Know what you are getting into before deciding to remodel as opposed to installing new fixtures randomly. Use standard building practices instead of green practices. Hire a professional from City Plumbing and Rooter (https://cityplumbingandrooter.com/thousand-oaks/) or some other company near you to get the fixture and plumbing works done properly.

Find out what smart appliances you need in your new bathroom

Using smart appliances to help with the renovation process can save you time and energy. If your home has a small space for your bathroom, it is crucial that you plan so that you won’t have problems adding things and using them. Make sure that all of the new items will fit in before buying them.

You can check this by measuring the dimensions given in product descriptions or doing trial measurements. Alternatively, you can contact MBS Interiors for home upgrades and let them handle this task. The professionals will be able to take much more accurate measurements and ensure everything in your bathroom is properly fitted.You can take pictures to show what your design looks like so far. This also helps out if something goes wrong during the construction process; you already know how it should look and where everything would go according to how big and where each item is.

Make sure that the smart appliances will work with your home’s current electrical system.

For a more specialized task like replacing your tub with a shower, talk to experts from Flow Pros Plumbing or somewhere similar and get their input on what they feel would work best for you given your home’s design.

Make sure that the smart appliances are compatible with each other. Two or more smart appliances may come in handy, but only if they can work together rather than compete against one another.

Determine if your bathroom has enough space for all the new smart appliances, and make adjustments to accommodate them as needed.

Consider what smart appliances can do for your bathroom to make it more efficient and pleasing. You may want a smart toilet, for example, that can control water temperature, monitor flushing force, and flush automatically. Or you might want a smart sink faucet that has Bluetooth capabilities.

Install any new smart appliances by the manufacturer’s instructions, keeping in mind that some new devices may require retrofitting to existing plumbing or electricity wiring installations. Well, any appliance that involves water would probably need the services of a plumber. Also, choosing a reputable plumbing service such as Anytime Plumbing Inc to do all the fittings can give you peace of mind. Retrofitting typically requires a licensed plumber or electrician, so be prepared to spend additional money beyond what was needed for the original appliance purchase.

Consider how much storage you want in your new bathroom and plan accordingly.

If your bathroom is small, you may want to opt for built-in storage cabinets or shelves. You can give yourself more cabinet and shelf space in a large bathroom by opting for wall-mounted units that free up floor space for other uses.

To add more natural light to your new bathroom, install skylights just above the shower or tub area; You’ll have better illumination than with lamps, plus it will make the bathroom feel larger.

Choose between installing a fully installed or semi-installed appliance package.

Choose your bathroom to remodel contractor carefully. A good remodeler will take care of permits, drawings, financing if needed and have an established network of subcontractors for plumbing, electricity, and tile work to ensure that your project runs smoothly and meets code specifications. It’s also essential to find one who works with budgets you can afford.

Hire a designer if you don’t know where to start. A professional can help you choose the suitable materials for your new bathroom, work with engineers and translate their drawings into installation plans for contractors, or even do the remodeling herself if she has her sub-contractors. For more information on remodeling bathrooms, contact H&A My Design.

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Home Sweet Home

6 Simple Highchair Tips to Keep Your Little One Safe

Once your baby can sit up on their own and begins eating solids — typically at around six months of age — it’s time to invest in a highchair. This is an exciting time for both parents and young children, as it marks the point when kids become more closely involved in family mealtimes. It’s also a key stage in any child’s development as they grow from a baby into a toddler.

When buying and using a highchair, it’s essential to always keep your child’s safety in mind. The experts from CuddleCo have some valuable tips to help you avoid any injuries, so the only thing you have to worry about is mushy food and a messy kitchen.

What to Look for in a Highchair

Just like when you were buying nursery furniture sets (where did the last six months go?), there are certain features you should look for in a highchair to ensure it’s safe, sturdy and easy to clean. Make sure it has the following features to keep your little one safe.

  • Wide Base

A highchair with a wider base may take up more space but will be safer. This is because the base provides greater stability and prevents the chair from becoming top-heavy when a child sits in it.

  • Five-Point Harness

The best highchairs come with a five-point harness engineered for safety and restrains your child at the shoulders and hips rather than only at the waist.

  • Locking Wheels

A highchair with wheels is useful if you need to move it around a lot. If yours comes with wheels, make sure they can be locked to guarantee stability when the chair is in use.

  • Quality Materials

Choose a highchair with legs made from quality materials such as wood or metal rather than plastic. This will ensure it stays strong and sturdy even after a few years of regular use.

Safety Tips for Using Your Highchair

1. Position the Highchair Safely

If your child is pulled up to a table in their highchair, make sure they can’t push away from it with their feet and tip backwards. If they can, position them with a wall behind them.

2. Make Sure Baby Is Secure

Make sure the highchair will not move when your baby is sitting in it. Position it on level ground, and if it has wheels, double-check that they’re locked before placing your child in the chair. Secure your child in the chair using a five-point harness and tighten the straps properly so they can’t wriggle free.

3. No Playing or Standing in the Highchair

You should use a highchair exclusively for mealtimes. Remove your little one from the chair when they’re done eating, and never let them stand or play in the highchair, as they could fall or topple the chair over.

4. Always Supervise Your Child

Even if you’re confident that your child is secure in their highchair, you should never leave them unattended. Choking is a risk for small children and is more common when new to eating solid foods.

5. Clean the Highchair Regularly

Protect your baby or toddler from any nasty bacteria by ensuring that the highchair is cleaned regularly. Small children are messy eaters, so you’ll need to often clean and disinfect the chair to keep your little one safe.

6. Look out for Potential Hazards

As the parent of a baby, you’ll be used to keeping an eye out for any potential hazards. Do the same when using a highchair by checking for anything within your child’s reach and moving it out of the way. This includes choking hazards, hot foods, sharp objects or anything your child could trap their fingers in.

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Home Sweet Home

Preparing to Bring Our New Baby Home: Things to Have

Bringing your new baby home from the hospital can be a joyous and exciting time. But don’t forget that you’ll need some supplies for home. It may seem overwhelming to think about everything, but future, you will be grateful if you get that stuff sorted now.

Preparing for a new baby should be fun because it’s a time to cherish the moments with your wife/husband. As parents, we need to be equipped with the right tools to take care of our new babies.

We don’t want things to be hard when bringing a new baby home, so here are some east things you can organise ahead of time.

What to do before you bring your new baby home:

Are you ready to bring your new baby home from the hospital? Here is a checklist of items that will make your life easier:

  • Babyproof the home

Before bringing your newborn home, it’s essential to take proactive steps to babyproof your living space. Creating a safe environment is paramount to ensure your baby’s well-being as they begin to explore their surroundings. Install safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs, cover electrical outlets (perhaps with the help of an Electrician Mentone), secure heavy furniture to walls to prevent tipping, and remove or secure any small objects that could pose a choking hazard.

Also, lock away cleaning supplies, medications, and other hazardous substances out of reach. Cordless window coverings and soft padding on sharp edges are also crucial to prevent accidents. By meticulously babyproofing your home, you’ll be providing a secure foundation for your little one’s early stages of growth and discovery.

  • Car seat

It is very important to transport your newborn baby in the safest way possible. Before bringing your baby home, make sure you have a car seat ready for them as you won’t be able to get them home safely otherwise.

A car seat makes the drive more comfortable for both the child and parent while offering important safety features. Picking out a good baby seat can be a little intimidating since there are so many to choose from

  • Children’s health insurance

Before bringing your baby home, it would be a good idea to invest in children’s health insurance so that you can rest assured your baby is going to have the best and fastest possible care right from the moment they’re born.

What’s great about these plans is that you will have a helping hand in the early days and someone to lean on if you’re experiencing some new parent anxiety about every little cough and hiccup.

  • Newborn essentials

There are a lot of things to bring when taking a baby home. Everyone thinks they’ve thought it all through and have everything you could possibly need for your little one. But just in case, make a checklist of everything you think you will need and have someone you trust check it over as you tick it off just to be double sure you have anything you might need in those first few weeks.

From clothing essentials like onesies, sleepers, and hats, to feeding supplies such as bottles, formula, or breastfeeding equipment, a meticulous inventory can bring peace of mind. Don’t forget diapering must-haves like diapers, wipes, creams, and changing pads. Additionally, consider bathing supplies, a safe sleeping space like a crib or bassinet, and items for transportation such as a car seat and stroller.

Conclusion

There are a million things that you will need to do before your little one can come home. You are ready for a whole new life, and this reality has arrived with new challenges and stresses that you need to get through together.

Expectations are high, so the more prepared you are, the better off you will be. Even though there are some simple things you can do to prepare, there are many preparations that require extra effort and focus. The earlier you get prepared for bringing your new baby home, the better your experience will be.

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Home Sweet Home Lifestyle

What Are the Best Family-Friendly Dogs to Have Around Children?

Getting a pet can be a wonderful and enthralling addition to anyone’s life. Pets are there to support you when you feel low, can decrease feelings of loneliness, and improve your opportunities for exercise and socialisation. There is perhaps no better option for a pet than man’s best friend. Owning a dog has just about every possible benefit you could want from a pet. As long as you sign them up to a local vets practice like Indy Veterinary Care or one in their vicinity, they will be looked after in the best way possible.

Dogs are excellent choice for families that are looking for a new furry addition to their home. A dog can have a massive influence on a child’s growth, providing them with a fun playmate and helping to teach cooperation, compassion and responsibility skills. However, buying or adopting a dog is a serious decision that requires considerable thought. You must consider the time and attention that you will be able to give the pet, including training, care (which may include getting some CBD dog supplements and other medications) and whether life commitments such as work will get in the way. For families, there’s nothing more important that choosing a dog that will love your children and not harm them.

Faye’s Doggy Boutique is a luxury doggy day care centre in Liverpool. As experts in the safe care of several types of dogs, in this article they will talk about some of the friendliest dog breeds that are ideal for families.

The Key Dog Issues for Families to Be Aware Of

If you are looking to bring a dog into your home, there are a range of key issues that you should be fully aware of. Dogs are not just playthings that can be handled without a care in the world. They are living mammals and require love, attention and tailored care like all of us. Despite being domesticated animals, dogs can be dangerous. It’s essential that every parent knows that any dog, no matter their breed or size, can cause physical harm. Dogs can snap at any point and bite a person should they feel stressed or under attack. Even pets that have lived with a family for multiple years may experience one moment of uncharacteristic madness.

As a parent, protecting your children and yourself should start with you. There are multiple ways to look at this. First of all, before choosing a dog, it’s important to select one that is right for you. A dog’s breed, which we will discuss more in the next section, can affect your decision. You should also consider a dog’s upbringing, age and personality. For example, rescue dogs that have had bad experience with humans are usually best left for quiet homes with no children or other animals. Young dogs such as puppies are often easy to train with children. When you get a dog, it’s then up to you to make sure that they behave sensibly. This can include training them and providing them with appropriate care and attention to prevent destructive behaviours.

Finally, you don’t just have control over the dog, but also your children. It’s incredibly important that you teach your kids to play and interact with the pet in a friendly and respectful manner. This is a multiple-sided relationship and the blame should not always lie with the dog. If a child interacts with the dog in a way that is harmful or intrusive, it’s no surprise that the animal’s defensive instincts would kick in.

Is It Proven That Certain Breeds Are More Dangerous?

So the big question is, are certain dog breeds really more dangerous than other breeds? Firstly, there cannot be a guarantee that a dog won’t act out. Any dog is capable of attacking a person if they feel threatened, and this is possible no matter how long they’ve known the person. There is no proof that any dog breed is dangerous from the moment that they are born.

While some dogs may be muscular and big in size, even this won’t necessarily affect their likelihood of acting someone. Some of the best dogs are large and cuddly ones, while small ones can be angry and vicious. At the end of the day, all dogs have sharp teeth and can cause damage if their mind tells them to. Dangerous traits usually kick in through a lack of training, a bad upbringing or irresponsible owners. With that said, dogs do have different personalities and temperaments which both contribute to how they act. Every dog is different, but some breeds exhibit unique characteristics.

Choosing the right breed for your family is also not just about what is dangerous and what is not. A friendly addition to the family is based on what characteristics you are looking for in the pet, and the characteristics of the people that live on your home. Some dogs are playful and energic, while others are timid and prefer to be alone. Likewise, some dogs can be aggressive and defensive. Kids can be rough, loud and direct, so it’s vital to find a dog that will accept certain behaviours.

The Friendliest Dogs to Have Around Children

We’re not going to discriminate against any one breed. As we’ve already made clear, every dog is different and you shouldn’t judge them purely based on their breed. However, there are some breeds that are more commonly associated with being perfect for family homes. Here’s a selection of just some of the breeds that are known for being extremely friendly when around children.

Golden Retriever

We just have to start with the much-loved golden retriever! Goldens are known for their affectionate, gentle and caring personalities. They are bundles of joy and can run around for hours without tiring out. With oodles of patience, they are perfect for young children. Just make sure they’re kept entertained with toys like this dog camera treat to ensure they don’t get bored whilst the kids are at school.

Newfoundland

Nicknamed ‘nature’s babysitter’, the Newfoundland is a majestic breed that resembles a wild bear – but they are anything but! These dogs are highly intelligent and despite their size, are usually gentle and patient. The only thing you have to worry about is lots of drool and shredding.

Bulldog

Bulldogs are often symbolised as British culture and many assume their owners to be in their 50s or older, but they make for a great family dog. This breed is usually devoted and laidback, and they are usually quite affectionate towards children. They also love an afternoon nap!

Cocker Spaniel

Don’t cocker spaniels just look so adorable? They even have a personality to match. These small-sized dogs are loving and gentle. You can usually find them running around with their flappy ears trailing behind, or putting themselves into the centre of attention.

Labrador Retriever

Like golden retrievers, Labradors are super friendly and love all the attention. Labradors are quite easy to train and are one of the most popular breeds for families. They are very energetic and love to run around in the outdoors – especially if tennis balls or frisbees are being thrown!

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Home Sweet Home

Is It Better to Rent a Furnished or Unfurnished Property?

Are you thinking about moving to Malaysia in the coming months? If so, you are probably looking at renting a property in one of the country’s many cities, towns, and suburbs. There are hundreds of factors to consider before moving into any rental property, from energy efficiency ratings and monthly bills to parking spaces and local amenities. One of the main factors that renters need to consider is whether they should move into a furnished, semi-furnished, or unfurnished property. There are multiple advantages and disadvantages to every type, all of which we are going to be discussing in our article today. If you are moving to Malaysia and can’t decide which would be best for you, then you should read on and find out more information.

Calculating the Costs

Furnished accommodation is usually more expensive than unfurnished accommodation in Malaysia, as you can see by looking at this list of rumah sewa klang. Landlords can charge extra for providing their tenants with all the essentials (beds, mattresses, sofas, chairs, dining tables, storage cabinets, kitchen appliances, etc.), increasing the price of rent for each month. This means that you will likely spend more money overall for a furnished rental property. This being said, furnished properties do save tenants from spending an extortionate amount of money on these furnishings themselves.

People who move into unfurnished accommodation have nothing. No bed frames, dining tables, sofas, or kitchen appliances. Only the bare minimum must be supplied by landlords. This includes white goods, fixtures, window coverings, and flooring. If you have no furniture, then you could spend a staggering amount of money on decorating your rental property. There is also the issue of upfront costs. It is significantly more expensive to move into unfurnished accommodation than a furnished property initially. You usually have to pay for removal companies to transport your possessions over and into your new place. Even if you don’t do that, you will still spend a massive amount of money on fuel when driving things over. This isn’t such an issue with furnished accommodation, as you won’t be hefting over bulky pieces of furniture like wardrobes.

Making It Your Own

One of the biggest advantages of renting an unfurnished property is that you can bring all your own furniture in, making the place feel much more like home. From the sofas and bedframes to the dining table and bathrooms, you have freedom of choice! Of course, you will be slightly limited by the rental contract, so you might need to seek out permission to paint the walls and make any changes to the layout. Overall, though, there is much more leeway. The same cannot be said for those with unfurnished properties. Sadly, you are stuck with whatever the landlord has chosen for decoration. Ugly sofas, unattractive wallpaper, hideous carpets… You can’t do much about removing them. This also limits the amount of space you have for your own belongings, such as desks or bookshelves.

In addition to this, rental property furnishings have been used by multiple tenants over the years. Sometimes, this means they are discoloured with tough old stains. This is a major setback of furnished accommodation. However, it’s not all bad. You can still email your landlord and request to have items replaced or removed altogether. They might say no, but it is still worth a shot! These things all result in furnished rental properties feeling less like your own home than unfurnished properties.

Comparing for Convenience

Initially, it is much more convenient to move into furnished accommodation. Everything you could possibly need should already be in there. This includes cutlery, crockery, chairs, and dining tables. You might even be supplied with a kettle and microwave, depending on how generous your landlord is. Most importantly, beds and mattresses are already supplied. You may also get a preinstalled HVAC unit, which could help you save installation money. Instead, you can just hire an HVAC service provider from websites like aquidneckservices.com for regular upkeep and inspection so that the system can run efficiently and effectively. As a result of these benefits, you can be settled into your new property within a couple of hours and save money on purchasing new home appliances and other necessities.

Unfortunately, renters who choose unfurnished accommodation do not have that luxury. They have the hassle of moving everything in – bedframes, kitchen supplies, sofas, you name it. Those with unfurnished properties can sometimes take weeks to properly settle themselves in. This is especially true if you are living in an apartment complex, with all those flights of stairs. Meanwhile, tenants in furnished accommodation can simply swan in and start comfortably living in their new home. However, in furnished properties, renters usually have to rely on their landlords a lot more. If something breaks, like a table leg, they need to go through the landlord to get it fixed. This might also come out of their deposit. They must also deal with much older, faulty equipment and furniture. These things aren’t so much a problem in unfurnished accommodation.

Flexibility and Contract Terms

One factor to consider when choosing between a furnished or unfurnished rental property is the flexibility and contract terms offered by the landlord. Furnished properties often come with longer lease terms, as landlords aim to minimize turnover and the associated costs of refurnishing the unit. Unfurnished properties, on the other hand, may offer more flexibility in terms of lease duration, allowing tenants to commit to shorter-term contracts if desired.

Additionally, furnished rentals may have stricter rules regarding modifications or alterations to the property, as the landlord has invested in providing the furnishings. Unfurnished units usually offer more leeway for tenants to personalize the space according to their preferences, such as painting walls or making minor renovations (with landlord approval, of course).

Maintenance and Upkeep

When renting a furnished property, the landlord is typically responsible for maintaining and replacing any damaged or worn-out furniture and appliances. This can be a convenience for tenants, as they do not have to worry about the upkeep or replacement costs of these items. However, it also means that tenants may have to wait for the landlord to address any issues that arise.

In an unfurnished rental, tenants are responsible for maintaining their own furniture and appliances. While this may require more effort and expense on the tenant’s part, it also allows for greater control over the condition and quality of the items in the living space. For example, during the winter season when the house is prone to becoming extremely cold, if a tenant needs to fix their boiler or purchase propane gas, they could simply contact retailers like Wendt Propane and have it delivered to their home without needing to wait for their landlord’s approval. This can significantly improve the tenant’s comfort and convenience, especially during urgent situations such as heating system malfunctions or appliance breakdowns.

Moving and Relocation

Moving into a furnished rental property can be more convenient, as it eliminates the need to transport large furniture items or appliances. This can be particularly beneficial for those who are relocating from another city or country, as it reduces the overall moving costs and hassle.

However, for those who already own furniture and appliances, an unfurnished rental may be more practical. Moving into a furnished unit would require finding temporary storage solutions or selling existing items, which can be inconvenient and costly.

When it comes time to move out, furnished rentals also present the challenge of properly cleaning and restoring the space to its original condition, which may require professional cleaning services to ensure the full security deposit is returned.

Now you know a little more about the advantages and disadvantages of furnished and unfurnished properties, you can make a better-informed decision about which you would prefer.