Don’t forget about your dog when you introduce a new member to the family. Never leave a dog alone with a child; always supervise dogs and children.
You can contact local dog rescue organisations in your area and offer to volunteer some of your spare time with dogs waiting to be re-homed.
Being a responsible owner is the most important consideration before buying, adopting or agreeing to own a dog. This involves an unwritten contract of appropriately caring for, feeding, protecting and sheltering your new best friend for up to 15 years and maybe more.
Research getting the ‘right’ breed of dog for your family so you know what to expect of the breed and if it fits with your lifestyle – it will avoid disappointments and guarantees a happy relationship with the dog.
The Silver Line is a 24×7 helpline offering befriending, information and advice for older people: 0800 4 70 80 90.
Learn what skills you can from your parents before you leave home, such as cooking, DIY, house/car maintenance – and how to deal emotionally with situations.
Your support network is your friends and family – the people who know you the best for the longest, who teach and help you. Use them wisely!
Whatever you’re going through, despite what you think, your parents have already gone through it: heartbreak, financial worries, exams, peer pressure and moving out.
Things which help in life: friends to believe in you, family to support you, a quiet place to think and regroup yourself, a way of finding extra strength, how to deal with criticism and bounce back.
Leeway offers a range of community services especially for children and young people (aged 5 – 19 years old) in Norfolk: one-to-one support, group work, and an advice line. Call them on 0845 241 2171.