quinta-feira, 11 de abril de 2019


How to Be a Responsible Pet Parent

Posted: 11 Apr 2019 01:00 AM PDT

Whether you're getting a family pet or a companion for yourself, caring for a pet is a big responsibility. Pets are family and depend on their owners to raise them and spend time with them. Like any children, pets have a wide range of needs, from physical health and safety to mental stimulation and attention. After you choose the right kind of pet, prepare your home for it and make the adoption official. Care for your pet with food, fun, and plenty of attention to be the best pet parent you can be.

EditSteps

EditBringing a Pet Home

  1. Select a pet that fits your living space and circumstances. One of the most responsible things you can do is to view pet parenthood as a commitment. Every pet is unique, so not all pets are suitable for potential parents. The size of your living space matters as well as the resources you have available to care for a pet. Consider how much time and energy you have to commit to a new pet.[1]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • Pets differ a lot between breeds. For instance, a Chihuahua requires less space and exercise than a big dog like a Great Dane. Factor in the food costs, messes, and vet costs different breeds have.
    • Exotic animals like parrots and big lizards are pretty expensive and often require roomy cages. Smaller animals, including hamsters and fish like guppies, are good choices for beginners.
    • Keep in mind other people you live with, particularly children. Some dogs are better family pets than others. Animals like birds often bond with one person and may bite others.
  2. Find a responsible shelter or rescue to get a pet. Once you have an idea of what kind of pet you want, look for pets in your area. Read about these places online, then tour the facility to make sure they treat animals well. Ask sellers questions, including about the adoption fee. Then, spend time meeting some of the animals to judge their temperament.[2]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • For pedigree pets, talk to the breeder. Ask about the dog's history and view its living conditions. A responsible breeder will be able to give you extensive documentation about the dog's background.
    • Read reviews from other customers along with the shelter or rescue's mission statement, but don't adopt until you have had a chance to visit the place in person.
    • There are pet-finding services online that allow you to search for animals in your area. Choose a reputable site where shelters and rescues list their pets, such as Petfinder at https://www.petfinder.com//
    • Take care of any paperwork you get when adopting a pet. Store important documents in a safe location in your home.
  3. Choose a pet and come up with a name for it. Once you pick a pet to care for, the fun of being a pet parent begins. Come up with a name that fits your pet. Find inspiration in your pet's appearance and personality or try adopting a name you heard elsewhere, such as on TV. Pick a name as soon as possible so other people know what to call it.[3]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    • For some animals, such as dogs and cats, you will need the name to legally register your pet with the local government. Veterinarian offices also ask for a name to keep track of your pet's health.
    • Don't rush while choosing a pet. Looking is difficult when you see a wide range of cute pets to choose from. Responsible pet parents wait until they're sure they have found the right pet for them.

EditCreating a Safe Environment

  1. Remove harmful and fragile objects from your pet's play space. You may hear other pet parents talk of "dog-proofing" or "cat-proofing" their home. Part of being a parent is protecting your pet from danger, which includes sharp objects, exposed cords, toxic plants, and anything else it can swallow. Pets are very curious, so put away breakable items and block off areas that are off-limits.[4]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • Any type of pet has the potential to do damage to your home. Rabbits, hamsters, birds, and even lizards may damage valuable clothing, electric wires, and other items.
    • Create safe spaces and play areas. For example, plants like azaleas and tulips are toxic to curious cats and dogs, so don't leave them out for your pet to explore.
  2. Install fences and cages to contain your pet at home. Backyard fences are great limiters for dogs. If you have an existing fence, check it over to ensure your dog can't escape. If you don't have a fenced yard, use a leash to let your pet outside. For other animals, including birds, reptiles, amphibians, and rodents, get a solid cage with plenty of play space. If you're keeping fish, choose a big tank that holds plenty of water and find a level surface to set it on.[5]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • Clear out space for cages and tanks. They need to be set on stable surfaces out of reach from children or other pets.
    • Know your pet's needs before placing their cage. Some pets, like parrots, like being close to the activity. Others, like prey species and fearful animals, need a quiet corner to rest in.
    • Crates are safe for dogs and cats when you need to leave home, but give your pet plenty of exercise and attention once you are able to let it out.
  3. Create safe bedding out of blankets or other material. Your new pet needs a place to sleep. Many pet stores sell pet beds for cats and dogs, but you can also stack blankets and pillows for them. Other types of pets need substrates covering the bottom of their habitats. Common substrates include newspaper, wood shavings, and dirt.[6]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    • If you keep reptiles and amphibians, research your pet's natural habitat. Pet supply stores sell clean substrates. Hermit crabs like sand, for instance. Geckos like dirt, but iguanas and snakes often appreciate newspaper.[7]
    • Aspen wood shavings are perfect for many snakes and rodents. Rodents and rabbits also like paper and hay.[8]
    • Birds stay on perches, but line the bottom of bird cages with clean newspaper. Change the lining when it gets dirty or shredded.
    • Use aquarium gravel and soil substrates for fish. Clean the gravel out with an aquarium vacuum about twice a month.

EditCompleting Registration and Safety Plans

  1. Submit registration and identification forms for your pet. If you have a dog or cat, print out a name tag to put on its collar. Most pet stores have tag printing services that make this quick and easy. For all types of animals, fill out adoption papers or registration forms according to the laws in your area.[9]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 7.jpg
    • Many areas require you to register with the government as a pet owner. Dogs, cats, and exotic animals often need to be registered even if you aren't keeping them as service animals. Ask the shelter or rescue agency what forms you need to complete to become an official pet parent.
    • Shelters and rescue agencies will often help you fill out registration forms. If you're still unsure what you need to do, ask them or get information at your local Animal Control office.
    • Consider getting a microchip for your dog or cat to track it in case it gets out. Veterinarians will also put a microchip in a pet bird or put a tracking band over its leg.
  2. Choose a carrier or harness big enough to transport your pet. You never know when you will need to take your pet outside, so be prepared in advance. For most pets, all you need to do is buy a carrier that provides enough space for your pet to rest comfortably. For pets that don't fit in crates, get a safety harness for your car to keep your pet safe while you're transporting them. Have a carrier or harness available in case you need to take your pet to the vet.[10]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 8.jpg
    • Pet supply stores sell plastic crates and fabric carriers. Crates are good for most animals, including birds, lizards, and rodents that would destroy soft carriers.
    • For fish, you will need to get a plastic bag or small fish bowl. Fill it with water from the tank and get your fish back in its regular habitat as soon as possible.
  3. Take your pet to a trusted veterinarian when it is sick. When you first bring your pet home, look around your area for good veterinarians. Make sure they are trained to treat the type of pet you own. Take your pet in for any required vaccinations and establish a yearly check-up schedule. Whenever you notice your pet acting unusually, schedule an earlier appointment.[11]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 9.jpg
    • Don't forget to get your dog or cat spayed or neutered if the shelter or rescue didn't take care of it for you!
    • Search for vet offices online to view credentials and customer reviews. Look for an office you feel comfortable taking your pet to.
    • The longer you live with your pet, the more you recognize how it acts during an ordinary day. Any behaviors out of the ordinary are signs that something is wrong. For instance, your pet may stop drinking water when it's sick.
  4. Come up with a plan in case of a natural disaster. Think of places to take your pet in case you are unable to leave them at home. Many pets end up getting left behind during emergencies. You can avoid this by finding out where the emergency shelters are in your area. Also, look for pet-friendly hotels and friends and family members who don't mind letting you visit with your pet.[12]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 10.jpg
    • Some community shelters don't accept pets. Make sure you know which shelters are safe for pets. You likely won't get a chance to do this if you get caught in a sudden emergency like a flood.
    • Prepare yourself well for whatever emergencies your community is prone to. Keep important documents like pet identification, immunization, and ID tags in a waterproof container to take with you.
  5. Establish a contact plan in case you are unable to care for your pet. A sudden change of plans, such as an illness, may prevent you from taking care of your pet. Have a plan and discuss it with people you know, including your friends, family members, and anyone living with you. Pick a few trusted people to check up on your precious pet and even take care of it as needed.[13]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 11.jpg
    • Come up with some basic ideas, such as who will care for your pet and where it will stay.
    • Sometimes plans are difficult to remember during busy, stressful times, so remind others of the plan until you are certain they know what to do.

EditHandling Your Pet's Needs

  1. Feed your pet a healthy diet. Care for your pet's health by purchasing a quality food and avoiding excessive treats. The dietary needs of your pet depend on its size and species. Healthy dog and cat kibble, for instance, consists of few grains and lots of meat. Read food labels carefully and limit fattening treats to keep your pet well-nourished.[14]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 12.jpg
    • Pets like birds and rodents often eat pellets supplemented with fruits and vegetables. Rabbits and similar animals need plenty of hay to supplement their diet.[15]
    • For meat-eating animals like snakes and lizards, you can purchase mealworms and other small insects at pet supply stores. Snakes eat mice, while many lizards also need leafy greens and some vegetables.
    • Fish flakes are fine for fish, although you still need to avoid overfeeding them. Fish need a small amount of flakes about twice a day.
  2. Provide clean water at all times for your pet. No matter what kind of pet you have, it needs plenty of water. For most pets, set up a bowl and refill it every day. Rinse it out with soap and water to keep it clean. If you have a pet like a hamster, hang a water bottle inside the cage.[16]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 13.jpg
    • If you leave your pet outside, make sure they have an accessible source of water at all times, especially during warm weather.
    • Fish need fresh water, so remember to clean fish tanks and bowls every couple of weeks. Have a filtration system in your fish habitat to keep the water fresh. Treat fresh water with conditioner to make it safe for your fish.
  3. Bathe your pets if they get dirty. Most pets keep themselves clean, so you don't need to worry too much about bathing. Dogs are the most likely type of pet to get dirty and require a bath about every 3 months. Wash your pet with warm water and a species-specific shampoo from the pet store. Use a flea shampoo to remove unwanted guests from dogs and cats.[17]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 14.jpg
    • Cats, birds, reptiles, amphibians, rabbits, and rodents all bathe themselves. If you see your bird or lizard in its water bowl, for example, it is cleaning itself. Some animals, such as birds and bearded dragons, also enjoy warm baths outside of their cages.
    • Bathe sick or dirty animals with a mild soap and small amounts of water. Animals that are unused to water, such as rabbits, will get scared and stressed if you immerse them.
    • Fish live in water, so they practically bathe themselves! Fish don't require special treatment unless they look sick, such as if you notice parasites to pull off them. Keep them clean by keeping the tank clean.
  4. Groom your pet by brushing its fur or trimming its nails. Brush out furry pets as often as once a day to eliminate mats and remove shed hair. Dogs, cats, birds, and some lizards also need to have their nails clipped to a safe size. Look for the colored vein inside the nail to avoid nicking it. Give your pet a nice treat for making it through the grooming session.[18]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 15.jpg
    • Metal pet combs work well for grooming pet hair. They aren't as bendable and flimsy as most plastic combs.
    • The kind of nail clipping tool you need differs slightly depending on the type of pet you have. Visit a pet supply store to get the right tool. For lizards and some birds, you can even adapt human nail clippers.
  5. Use dental products to keep teeth and beaks clean. If you have a dog or a cat, clean its teeth yourself to cut down on costs. Brush your pet's teeth once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste, if possible. Also, give your pet chewable items like dental treats or chew toys and offer hay to rabbits and rodents.[19]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 16.jpg
    • Rabbits and rodents like hamsters chew on toys and food to grind their teeth down. Birds hone their beaks on perches. Without the proper equipment, teeth and beaks overgrow, leading to health problems.[20]

EditSocializing Your Pet

  1. Buy toys to keep your pet stimulated. Caring for a pet involves more than its physical health. Pets love to play, but some pets need a selection of toys to stay stimulated. Most pets enjoy having chewable toys, toys they can chase, and toys that dispense treats. Look for toys that make noise and keep your pet engaged even when you're not around.[21]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 17.jpg
    • Keep in mind your pet's needs. A cat, for instance, may scratch your couch if you don't give it a scratching post.
    • If you're handy with crafts, try making your own toys, such as a puzzle box for birds or a platform for hamsters.
    • Fish like exploring, so try putting a colorful background behind the fish tank. Then, put plants, a plastic shipwreck, and other toys in the aquarium gravel. Move the toys on occasion to keep your fish happy.
  2. Show your pet plenty of affection by playing with it. To be a good pet parent, spend as much time as you can with your pet. Play with it as much as possible. If it likes physical attention, try letting it come near you, petting it, or giving it a belly rub. Every pet tolerates affection differently, so find activities that your pet enjoys.[22]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 18.jpg
    • Some pets don't like to be handled much. Many reptiles and rodents, for instance, don't like to be held for very long. If it doesn't like being held, it might like toys or let you feed it.
    • For example, play fetch with your dog or bird. Dangle a toy for your cat to chase. Take other types of pets out of their cages and tanks to spend time with them.
  3. Train your pet with treats and praise. Being a pet parent involves teaching your pet how you want it to behave. Your pet won't know at first, especially if it is very young. To train your pet the right way, offer it a treat when it does what you want it to do. Scolding and hitting it is mean and usually doesn't help your pet learn.[23]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 19.jpg
    • Train dogs and cats to do tricks, stop making noise, or stay out of trouble, for instance. Go slowly, rewarding your pet with a treat or click each time they make progress. Keep in mind that younger pets are easier to train than older ones.
    • Remember to toilet train your pet, such as by teaching your dog to go outside or your cat to use a litterbox.
    • Other animals are also trainable. For example, birds and lizards can even be toilet trained if you're patient.[24]
  4. Introduce your pets to new experiences and other people slowly. Pets need time to adapt to new situations. Your pet may be a little timid, especially when you first bring it home. Keep it in a quiet space and don't force it to interact. Gradually expose it to the new situation until it grows comfortable enough to approach.[25]
    Be a Responsible Pet Parent Step 20.jpg
    • Know your pet. Some pets are better alone. Some types of fish, for instance, do better alone in a tank.
    • Using treats helps entice a pet to approach a new situation. You may need to work slowly, giving your pet a treat each time it looks at the new thing or steps towards it, for instance.
    • Always supervise your pet while it socializes. Pets get startled just like you might in a new situation. This often leads to bites or scratches.

EditTips

  • Do as much research as possible before bringing home a new pet. Figure out your pet's needs and do your best to meet them.
  • For many pets, chewing is a natural behavior and punishing it doesn't help. Provide chew toys, especially for young pets like puppies.
  • Sometimes you need to show a pet what you want it to do, such as crawling through a pet door. Find creative ways to teach your pet, such as by standing outside the door and calling to it.
  • Many pets are shy, so give them quiet spots with hiding spaces. Hamsters like having tunnels and huts, for example.
  • Hitting a pet leads to emotional and behavioral problems. There are more effective ways to train a pet, such as with praise and treats.
  • Socializing and training a pet is easier when it's younger. Expose it slowly to new people and situations to make it feel safe and confident.
  • Whenever you need advice, speak with a veterinarian or another trusted pet professional. Also, consider joining local and online groups for pet parents.

EditWarnings

  • As soon as you get a pet, it becomes your responsibility. Make sure you're ready for all that being a pet parent entails.

EditRelated wikiHows

EditReferences


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How to Make Sunny Side up Eggs

Posted: 10 Apr 2019 05:00 PM PDT

Sunny side up eggs are fried on only one side, with the yolks intact, golden, and runny. They're a delicious breakfast food that pairs great with a piece of bread for dipping in the yolk! You can easily make sunny side up eggs at home in a frying pan or by cooking them in the oven.

EditIngredients

EditFrying Eggs in a Pan

  • 1 tablespoon (14.2 g) of butter
  • 2 eggs
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

EditCooking Eggs in the Oven

  • 1 teaspoon (13.7 g) of olive oil
  • 2 eggs
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

EditSteps

EditFrying Eggs in a Pan

  1. Heat 1 tbsp (14.2 g) of butter on low in a cast iron or non-stick skillet. Choose a skillet large enough to fit 2 cracked eggs so that they won't touch in the pan. Place the skillet on the burner with the butter in the pan, and turn on the burner to heat the butter.[1]

    • If your pan isn't non-stick, such as a carbon steel pan, you may need to spray it lightly with a non-stick spray before adding the butter.
  2. Tilt the pan to distribute the melted butter over the bottom. The butter helps to fry the bottom of the eggs quickly and maintain their shape. Make sure the butter is covering almost as much of the surface of the bottom of the pan as possible.[2]

    • If you don't have butter, you can use lard, olive oil, or bacon fat to make your eggs, because each will spread to coat the bottom of the pan.
  3. Break 1 egg gently into the pan, keeping the yolk intact. Once the butter is simmering, hold the egg about over the frying pan as you break it, and let it gently drop into the bottom of the hot pan. The egg whites will begin to cook immediately.[3]

    • If you have trouble cracking eggs, crack each one into a bowl, check for shell fragments, and then carefully pour the egg into the pan.
  4. Crack another egg into the pan so that the whites don't touch. Repeat the process for cracking the egg into the pan. If the whites begin to touch, place one of the flat edges of your spatula in between them to keep them separated.[4]

    • Alternatively, you can let the whites touch and separate them after they're cooked by slicing through the whites with a spatula or knife.
  5. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 2-3 minutes. Covering the pan can accelerate the cooking process and make sure the whites are firm while the yolk remains runny. After 2 minutes, open the lid and check the whites to make sure they're cooked on the top. If not, recover the pan, and let them cook for another 30-60 seconds.

    • You can check the doneness of the egg by shaking the pan gently to see if the yolk jiggles while the whites stay firm.
  6. Transfer the eggs to a plate and season with salt and pepper. Carefully hold the pan at a 45-degree angle next to the plate, and watch as they slide off of the pan. For more control, slide a spatula under each egg, and lift it onto the plate. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste and enjoy![5]

    • You can serve sunny side up eggs with grits, over a piece of toast, or as part of a big breakfast with meat, potatoes, and fruit.

EditCooking Eggs in the Oven

  1. Preheat an oven to . Use the control panel on your oven to set the heat to the correct level, and begin preparing the food while the oven heats up. This should take about 10-15 minutes, depending on your oven.[6]

  2. Heat an oven-proof skillet lined with 1 tsp (13.7 g) of olive oil over medium heat. Check the bottom of your skillet for a label that says "oven safe." If it is, pour 1 teaspoon (13.7 g) of olive oil into the pan, and tilt the pan to cover the bottom with oil. Then, leave the pan on the burner until the oil begins to simmer.[7]

    • In general, most cast iron skillets are oven safe, but many non-stick and carbon steel skillets are not.
  3. Crack 2 eggs into the skillet so that the whites aren't touching. Carefully break the eggs into the skillet on separate sides of the pan. If the whites touch, hold the flat edge of your spatula in between them to keep them apart until you put the pan in the oven. After both eggs are in the pan, remove it from the heat.[8]

    • Try to crack the eggs into the pan as quickly as possible while keeping the yolks intact.
  4. Transfer the skillet into the oven and bake the eggs for 4 minutes. Lift the pan from the burner and gently slide it onto the center rack of the oven. Leave the pan in the oven until the whites are set, which you can check by gently shaking the pan. If the yolk jiggles and the whites stay in place, the eggs are ready![9]

    • With some ovens, this can take 3 and a half minutes, so keep the light on in your oven and watch the whites of each egg to see when they are fully cooked. If the yolk begins to turn white at any point, remove the eggs from the oven immediately to prevent them from cooking further.
  5. Remove the eggs from the oven and slide them onto a plate to season them. Use an oven mitt to pull the pan out of the oven, and tilt it at a 45-degree angle to slide the eggs off of the pan and onto a plate. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste and enjoy![10]

    • It's best to serve the eggs immediately to keep them from getting cold.

EditTips

  • If you have trouble keeping the yolk centered, try separating the egg whites from the yolk. Then, put the whites into the pan and add the yolk to the center of the whites.

EditWarnings

  • Eating undercooked eggs can result in food poisoning. Be sure to cook your eggs thoroughly to lessen the risk of food poisoning.

EditThings You'll Need

  • Cast iron, non-stick, or carbon steel pan
  • Spatula
  • Butter or olive oil
  • Eggs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Serving plates

EditRelated wikiHows

EditReferences

EditQuick Summary


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How to Be a Supportive Sibling

Posted: 10 Apr 2019 09:00 AM PDT

Sibling relationships can be very meaningful and intimate, but it is common for people to drift apart as they grow older and build their own families and other relationships. Distance can also make it harder to maintain supportive sibling relationships, but you can still maintain them with some effort. Even if you are not super close to your sibling, they will often end up being lifelong and important. As a person with siblings, you may wonder how you can support and care for your sibling. You can be supportive by communicating effectively with them and by being there for them during difficult times. You can also try to get along well with your sibling so you can both enjoy each other's company and support each other.

EditSteps

EditBeing There For Your Sibling in Difficult Times

  1. Contact them on a regular basis. If your sibling is going through a difficult time, such as a break up, the loss of a friend, or the loss of their job, stay in touch with them on a regular basis. Call them or text them daily with a friendly, "How are you?" or "How's it going?" Send them funny videos or images to cheer them up, especially if you know they are not feeling great.[1]
    Catch a Cheating Partner Step 6 Version 3.jpg
    • Staying in contact with your sibling will let them know that you care about them and that you are there for them. Even a quick message once a day can make them feel supported and less alone.
  2. Have weekly lunch or dinner plans. To be there for your sibling, set up weekly plans where you get together face to face and catch up. Try to schedule regular weekly lunches or dinners with your sibling and commit to them. Having quality one on one time with your sibling can make your bond stronger and make them feel you are supporting them.
    Deal with Suicidal Parents Step 3.jpg
    • You may have your sibling over for dinner at your home or switch between their home and your home. You can also suggest meeting for lunch at a place you both like so the environment feels comforting.
  3. Offer to help them with chores or other commitments. If your sibling appears overwhelmed due to stress or anxiety, give them a helping hand. Help them do chores they do not have the time or energy to do. Offer to help them complete tasks and commitments so they have time for themselves to relax and unwind.
    Get Out of an Abusive Relationship Step 26.jpg
    • For example, if your sibling is not able to prepare their own meals due to an illness, bring them take out or prepare home cooked meals for them.
  4. Suggest they speak to a professional. If your sibling is struggling with their mental and physical health, you may suggest that they speak to a counselor or a therapist. Part of supporting your sibling is being honest with them and letting them know you are worried or concerned about them. They may need help beyond what you can provide as a sibling and a professional therapist or counselor may be the right answer.[2]
    Benefit from Interpersonal Therapy Step 12.jpg
    • You may contact a mental health clinic nearby to see if there is a counselor your sibling could speak to. If your sibling lives on campus or goes to school, you can suggest that they speak to a school counselor.

EditCommunicating Effectively with Your Sibling

  1. Share your feelings with your sibling. A big part of being supportive of your sibling is making sure you are honest and share your feelings with them. Don't be shy about sharing how you are feeling. Tell your sibling when you are feeling emotional and be honest with them. Use "I" statements when you express your feelings.[3]
    Tell if You Are Depressed Step 3.jpg
    • For example, you may tell your sibling, "I am feeling down today" or "I want to support you right now, even though I've had a long day."
  2. Be a good listener. Support your sibling by being a good listener, so they feel they can confide in you. Maintain eye contact with your sibling and nod as they speak to show them you are listening. Avoid interrupting them and wait until they are done speaking to ask them thoughtful questions.[4]
    Show Compassion to Others when You Have Depression Step 3.jpg
    • Try to practice active listening, where you listen to your sibling speak without interruption. Then, once they are done, respond by repeating back what they said to you. You may say, "What I'm hearing you say is…" or "What I think you meant is…". Once they have confirmed you heard them correctly, you can respond to them.
    • Doing active listening will ensure you are both communicating effectively with one another and listening to each other closely.
  3. Offer guidance and advice. If your sibling confides a problem or issue to you, try to offer guidance and advice. Listen to what they have to say first and then ask them thoughtful questions. Wait for your sibling to ask for your opinion or for advice before you give it.
    Develop Poise Step 8 Version 2.jpg
    • Make suggestions, offer advice, but do not pressure your sibling to take your advice. Ultimately, they are their own person and should make their decisions on their own.
    • For example, you may offer advice to your sibling by saying, "In my opinion…" or "My advice is to…".

EditGetting Along with Your Sibling

  1. Avoid conflicts and arguments with your sibling. Sibling rivalry is common and this can often lead to fighting and arguing. Support your sibling by trying to get along with them. Avoid petty arguments and fights. Use your communication skills to mediate any issues you might have with your sibling.[5]
    Tell the Difference Between Healthy and Unhealthy Emotions Step 1.jpg
    • Take a time out if you get upset. Step away from the conversation and take a five-minute time out where you go off on your own to calm down and think. Then, return and start the conversation again with your sibling in a more relaxed manner.
  2. Support your sibling if they have a conflict with your family. Sometimes siblings can be divided when one sibling sides with one parent or with other relatives. Try to support your sibling when they are in a conflict with a family member, even if you may not agree with their choice. Listen to their concerns and remind them that you love and care for them, despite the conflicts in the family.
    Deal when Your Best Friend Is Gay Step 3.jpg
    • For example, you may say to your sibling, "I don't agree with you siding with mom on this issue. But I want you to know that I love and care for you. I will support you."
  3. Try a new hobby or activity together. Support your sibling by doing a new hobby or activity together. This way you can both bond and feel acknowledged. Having a hobby or activity in common can help you and your sibling bond. It will also allow you to both support each other and recognize each other's accomplishments.[6]
    Deal when Your Best Friend Is Gay Step 10.jpg
    • Take a fitness class, a craft class, or a cooking class together. Try a new hobby like knitting, painting, or tackle a new video game.
  4. Spend quality time with your sibling. Make sure you devote a portion of your schedule to spending quality time with your sibling. Have a meaningful conversation over lunch. Spend time doing a fun activity together, like preparing a meal, listening to music, or going for a walk.[7] Having regular quality time with your sibling will take time and effort, but this will help to maintain your relationship.
    Cope With Being a Social Outcast Step 9.jpg
    • If you and your sibling both have your own families, then plan family outings together and make time for family get-togethers.
    • Stay in contact with your nieces and nephews. If you have nieces and nephews, then be a good uncle/aunt by keeping regular contact with them.
    • You can also involve your other family members and spend time together as a family. Doing this can make you all feel supported and loved. Your sibling may also feel they can lean on their other family members, as well as you.
    • Plan a trip to visit your sibling once per year if they live far away.

EditReferences


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