At Home With Valerie

(Family Features) Adding a four-legged friend to the family is no small decision, and it’s easy to get distracted by sweet eyes pleading to be taken home. Becoming a dog parent is a major commitment, so it’s important to do your research and make well-informed choices before deciding on a new dog. No matter what stage of acquiring a dog you’re in, educate yourself about your options. A resource like Be Dog Smart, an online tool designed to guide consumers through the process of looking for a dog, can help you every step of the way, regardless of whether you’re considering getting a dog from a professional breeder, pet store, friend, family member or adopting from a shelter or rescue. By asking the right questions, researching credible sources and requesting transparency from those who provide companion animals, you can rest assured you are taking the right steps to bring home a new furry family member. Take smarter steps to bring your new fur-baby home with these tips from th...

(Family Features) While the impact of winter weather varies across the country, nearly all Americans are affected in some capacity each year as temperatures drop, from freezing rain to severe blizzards. One of the key dangers when severe weather strikes is the potential loss of heat, power and communication services. Making a portable generator part of your family’s emergency plan can help keep your loved ones safe and warm in the event of an unexpected power outage. While they can provide reliable back-up energy for portable heaters, help prevent food spoilage and allow for access to radio or television for news and weather updates, portable generators must be used properly to avoid carbon monoxide risks. Newer generator models that comply with the American National Standards Institute/Portable Generator Manufacturers’ Association (PGMA) G300 Standard include carbon monoxide sensors and shutdown features to help protect your family from dangerous carbon monoxide buildup and pois...

(Family Features) While cats can be quite independent animals, they still rely on their pet parents to maintain their well-being. It’s up to pet owners to provide the adequate care, nutrition and home environment to ensure their furry friends live long and healthy lives. Consider these tips and visit temptationstreats.com and iams.com for further guidance on raising healthy and happy cats. Designate a Special Spot – Make sure your cat has a space in the home where he can be unbothered and relax. This space can also be somewhere your cat can hide or snuggle up. Putting a cat tree with a lookout in a quiet spot can give your pet a perfect place for a catnap. Provide a Healthy Diet – Diet is a vital part of your cat’s health and wellness, and it’s important to find a food that caters to your pet’s specific needs and preferences. Look for food that fits your cat’s needs like senior care, hairball control and oral care, so he receives the best nutrition at every life stage....

(Culinary.net) If you need an on-the-go breakfast option, wake up your morning with bacon, eggs and a biscuit in these simple, tasty Breakfast Sandwiches. Find more on-the-go recipe ideas at Culinary.net . Watch video to see how to make this recipe! Breakfast Sandwiches 1          can (16 ounces) buttermilk biscuits 1          package (12 ounces) bacon 8          eggs 1/4       teaspoon salt 1/8       teaspoon pepper 1          tablespoon butter 1          green bell pepper, chopped 1/2       onion, chopped 5          slices cheese Heat oven to 350° F. Place biscuits on baking sheet. Bake 12-16 minutes, or...

(Family Features) Many new parents spend hours preparing for the arrival of a new baby – reading books, seeking professional advice and consulting friends and family. However, in focusing on birth, they may not get to prepare for other big milestones, like the transition back to work. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more women are returning to work than ever before – more than 70% of women with children under 18 are in the labor force.  However, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest new mothers may not be getting the support they need from health care providers, family members and employers to meet their breastfeeding goals. “Parenthood is complicated on its own,” said Melissa Gonzales, executive vice president of the Americas for Medela LLC. “Adding in a full workload is something that many new mothers take on within weeks after birth.  With nearly two-thirds of moms going back to work after baby, there is a clear n...

(Family Features) One of the most difficult conversations in a person’s life typically takes place near the end of that life. Planning for a funeral can put an emotional strain on family members and friends, but some of the stress can be relieved when the most common questions have answers. Start by examining your options. While funeral homes generally have similar offerings, they can also vary quite a bit in pricing and other amenities. It’s important to choose a funeral home you feel comfortable will meet the emotional needs of your family members and be sensitive to your budget. Speaking with a funeral director to assist in planning and preparing for memorial services once you’ve settled on a funeral home is one of the easiest ways to find clarity during a stressful, often confusing, period of time. Consider these five common questions funeral directors are asked, along with advice and direction from the experts at the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA): ...