Simply Annapolis July/August 2023 Publication

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JULY/AUGUST 2023 Outdoor Kitchen
Why move to Annapolis Area
Summer Issue
2 | July/August 2023 We Listen. Beautiful Happens. Contact Us Krista Shugars, CID Certified Residential Interior Designer Certified True Color Expert 410.855.4446 krista@kd-designs.net www.kddesigns.decoratingden.com FULL SERVICE INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES Tailored Specifically for You Custom Furniture | Custom Area Rugs Custom Window Treatments
3 | July/August 2023 We Listen. Beautiful Happens. Contact Us Krista Shugars, CID Certified Residential Interior Designer Certified True Color Expert 410 855 4446 krista@kd-designs net www kddesigns decoratingden com FULL SERVICE INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES Custom Furniture Custom Window Treatments
4 | July/August 2023 Contents Contents LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER SHARK TANK NEW WINNER FROM ANNAPOLIS UMD alum brings pet rescue app to Shark Tank TRAVEL DESTINATION THE 14 BEST CARIBBEAN OVERWATER BUNGALOWS [2023] OUTDOOR KITCHEN BUILDERS IN DAVIDSONVILLE, MARYLAND 08 11 15 06 06 08 11 15
5 | July/August 2023
Veronica Fountain Veronica@simplymagazines.net
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Marlene
Thompson LAYOUT & AD DESIGN Natthaphon Foithong Natt@simplymagazines.net ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Veronica Fountain Veronica@simplymagazines.net
WRITERS
Keaton, Robyn Evans, Lauryn Forbes, Leilani Flint
Furin- Campbell
Robert 34 20 22 26 29 LOCAL HOTSPOTS WHY MOVE TO ANNAPOLIS AREA? BEAUTY DEPARTMENTFACIALS - AFTER SUN TREATMENT PETS DEPARTMENTWHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN ADOPTING Things To Do Before You Adopt a Pet BEST SUMMER BOOK READS 20 22 26 29
PUBLISHER
CONTRIBUTING
Tracey
Luke
CONTRIBUTING
Joylynn
Aya
LeAnne

PUBLISHER from the Letter

As if 2022 wasn’t exciting enough for us, we have started the year 2023 off with a bang and a terrific new team at the editorial helm.

We are truly grateful to Tracey Connor for the work she did over the past couple years, and beginning with this issue, our new managing editor is Lauryn Forbes and we have three new contributing photographers, Luke Thompson, and Joey Costa. These ladies and gentlemen have been a part of our team for almost 8 years and represent a strong part of Simply Bowie ongoing success. Please join me in wishing them the best as they steer us editorially moving forward.

Year after year, our loyal advertisers continue with us, and we cultivate new clients because of the quality of our journalism and the results they see from our readers patronizing their businesses. Our stories highlight the hidden gems in our market—artists, philanthropists, chefs, designers, friends, businesses, homeowners, pets and so much more. Our team goes above and beyond to bring you things you may not see elsewhere through that extra effort of research and personal involvement in the community.

This is a true milestone for me, as 2023 marks our 8th year of publishing. I started Simply Bowie in 2015 and Simply Annapolis 2023. Thank you for the friendship, love and support I have received over the past eight years. I am proud to live, work and play here, and I look forward to the next 8 years!

Cheers!

6 | July/August 2023

GENERAL

We are a fully licensed and insured contractor for your protection.  We take pride in offering first quality workmanship. We have the knowlegde and experience to handle your project in the best way possible for your comfort and satisfaction.

Our Values:

• First Quality Workmanship: At Best Deal Home Improvement your home is the best reflection of our name, that is why we do quality work and the highest craftsmanship.

• Honesty: We do our best to communicate clearly and fairly at every step of your project.

• Knowledge: For over 20 years, we continue improving our skills and knowledge in new products and techniques to always serve you better. We are a FULL

and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Ready to schedule a consultation, send us an email to

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UMD alum brings pet rescue app to Shark Tank

8 | July/August 2023

Most of us have insurance policies to take care of our loved ones when we can’t be there.

But what about our loved ones that can’t physically claim those benefits.....our pets?

A new app designed by a Baltimore man was created to solve that problem and give pet parents peace of mind.

The app ‘Woof’ lets you set a timer that automatically starts counting down when you leave your home. If you’re not back by the allotted time, it takes steps to make sure you and your pet are ok.

You can also set an “at home” timer that works the same way to river in-home emergencies like a heart attack. The creator says it fills a huge gap in the market.

“The only thing that is a close competitor to Woof is literally like a card you keep in your wallet, like a business style card. And it has like your name and it says if found, I have a pet at home, that’s it,” said Arsy Khodabandelou.

Woof is the #1 app for pet rescue and pet owner peace of mind

Designed to quickly rescue your pet if something unexpectedly happens to you (e.g. car accident, heart attack)

Detailed Pet Profile that captures all of your pet’s information, routines, and favorites – so their wellbeing can be maintained with any caretaker

Three-tiered support structure that’s automatically activated if your pet’s wellbeing is at risk

Peace of mind about your pet’s wellbeing

Nationwide coverage and 24/7 US based support

9 | July/August 2023

Weight

Minor Illnesses

Capital Multi Health Group

Medical

Would you like to access healthcare services without going to a hospital or major healthcare facility? At our medical clinic in Maryland, you can receive the care you need. We offer services that cater to the assessment, treatment, and maintenance of your physical and mental health.

Substance

What We Can Do

We offer general behavioral health services, including assessments and follow-up care. Psychological assessments are also offered for patients undergoing bariatric surgery and other forms of surgical operations.

Our services cater to people with the following conditions:

Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluations

Psychotherapy

Medication Management

Bipolar Disorder

Depression

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Dementia/Delirium

PTSD

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity

Disorder

Separation Anxiety Disorder

Oppositional Defiant Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Asperger’s Syndrome

Grief and Loss

Mental Retardation

Substance Abuse

Eating Disorders

Factitious Disorders

Sleeping Disorders

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Panic Disorders

10 | July/August 2023
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THE 14 BEST CARIBBEAN OVERWATER BUNGALOWS

Travel Destination

If you’ve visited Bora Bora or the Maldives, you may have stayed in an overwater villa. However, there weren’t many luxurious Caribbean overwater bungalowsup to now.

In recent years, several new overwater bungalow resorts have opened. Staying at one of these floating villas is a true bucket list experience.

11 | July/August 2023
[2023]

THE BEST CARIBBEAN OVERWATER BUNGALOWS

You no longer need to travel as far as the Maldives or Tahiti to get a taste of life on the water. From Aruba to Jamaica, Mexico and St Lucia, these are the best overwater bungalows in the Caribbean. In our selection, we have included several casual eco-lodges in the Caribbean Sea, as well as luxury resorts. There’s something for every budget and group size.

1. PALAFITOS OVERWATER BUNGALOWS AT EL DORADO MAROMA, MEXICO

Located within the adults only resort El Dorado Maroma near Cancun, Palafitos Overwater Bungalows are ideal for couples. This all-inclusive Riviera Maya hotel has 30 chic overwater bungalows. Choose between the classic Overwater Bungalow and the Elite Overwater Bungalow, which comes complete with your own personal butler. All the Palafitos overwater bungalows have their own private deck, glass floors in the bedroom and lounge area, a hottub, mini-bar and outdoor shower.

These spacious overwater rooms measure 600 square feet, with a 211 feet terrace.

There’s lots to do in and around the El Dorado Maroma resort, from relaxing on Playa del Carmen beach to exploring the ruins and street art in Tulum Náay Spa is spread over 5,000 ft2 and offers a range of treatments including a sunrise couples massage on the beach and a Tequila Ritual!

2. SANDALS GRANDE ST. LUCIAN, ST LUCIA

Known for their luxury Caribbean all-inclusive resorts, Sandals have added some stunning overwater bungalows to their properties in recent years.

Sandals Grande St. Lucian has a fabulous location on a peninsula next to Pigeon Island National Park. This

adults-only resort has some impressive Over-theWater Bungalows with personalized butler service. Each one has an outdoor shower, deck with swim-up platform and lounge chairs, overwater hammock and couples soaking tub.

Inside the bungalows, there are light-up glass floors and king-size beds, together with a pillow menu. Sandals Grande St Lucian resort has a mile-long beach, 12 restaurants and 6 bars.

There’s an extensive PADI® Certified Scuba Diving program and many other watersports included, such as kneeboarding and water-skiing. This St. Lucia resort makes a great base from which to hike the Piton mountains and visit La Soufriere Drive In Volcano.

3. ROYALTON ANTIGUA RESORT & SPA, ANTIGUA

This luxury all-inclusive resort in Antigua is situated on its own private beach on Deep Bay. The land based rooms at Royalton Antigua Resort & Spa are suitable for couples and families.

4. ROSEWOOD MAYAKOBA, MEXICO

One of our favorite Riviera Maya resorts, Mayakoba has 4 luxury hotels, including Rosewood Mayakoba Set amidst the mangroves and next to a white sandbeach, this eco resort has some stunning deluxe lagoon suites with butler service.

12 | July/August 2023

5. ARUBA OCEAN VILLAS

Nicknamed One Happy Island, Aruba is known for its reliable sunshine, wreck diving and white sand beaches. The native fofoti trees grow on the beach, with the most famous being Eagle Beach.

6. SANDALS ROYAL CARIBBEAN, JAMAICA

The first Caribbean overwater bungalows opened in 2016 at Sandals Royal Caribbean resort in Montego Bay. An immediate success, these Over-The-Water Bungalows have light up glass floor panels inside, king-size beds and spa-style bathrooms.

7. CAYO ESPANTO, BELIZE

Located on its own private island, Cayo Espanto is close to mainland Belize and to Ambergris Caye. This exclusive Caribbean retreat is a great base from which to see the Belizean Barrier Reef, the second largest coral system in the world.

8. PUNTA CARACOL ACQUALODGE, PANAMA

This casual Caribbean eco lodge in Panama prides itself on its sustainability program. Only 2% of the 100 acres of Punta Caracol Acqua-Lodge are used for accommodation.

9. SANDALS SOUTH COAST, JAMAICA

A luxurious all inclusive couples only resort in Whitehouse, Jamaica, Sandals South Coast is known for its overwater chapel and bar, Latitudes. The overthe-water villas at Sandals South Coast are accessible via a heart-shaped pier.

10. THATCH CAYE, BELIZE

An informal all-inclusive private island resort in Belize, Thatch Caye Resort is located off the coast of Dangriga, close to the Belizean Barrier Reef. Limited to just 30 guests, this eco retreat is part of the popular Muy’Ono Resorts.

13 | July/August 2023

11. ANTHONY’S KEY RESORT, HONDURAS

Going strong for over 50 years, Anthony’s Key Resort is a rustic idyll where you can get away from it all. For that reason, there are no TVs or phones in the overwater bungalows, although there is WiFi.

12. BANYAN TREE MAYAKOBA, MEXICO

This Mexican eco-friendly hotel is situated on Playa del Carmen, close to Cancun.

13. AZUL PARADISE HOTEL AND RESORT, PANAMA

With two locations, one in the center of Bocas Town and one on a remote part of the island, you get the best of both worlds at Azul Paradise. This eco-luxury hotel in Bocas del Toro, Panama has three restaurants and lots of fun activities such as wildlife tours and sea turtle release.

14. VICEROY BOCAS DEL TORO, PANAMA

Due to open in 2023, Viceroy Bocas del Toro Panama will be located close to Panama City. There will be 42 overwater bungalows, each with their own private deck and plunge pool.

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OUTDOOR KITCHEN BUILDERS IN DAVIDSONVILLE, MARYLAND

The kitchen is usually the focal point of the home and the area where everyone gathers. An outdoor kitchen in Davidsonville allows you to enjoy the company of your family and friends, all while taking in the beautiful surroundings of your backyard. When you work with Diamond Decks & Home Improvement to achieve your custom outdoor kitchen in Davidsonville , MD, you can let your imagination and dreams run wild with options to add pizza ovens, built-in grills, beautiful cabinetry, and more exciting and useful features.

15 | July/August 2023
Never ask “Where can I find outdoor kitchen contractors near me?” again! If you are ready to start designing your perfect custom outdoor kitchen in Davidsonville or a surrounding area in Maryland today, contact us online or call us at
(443) 688-6072!

Custom Outdoor Kitchen Features

Our experienced project designers will work oneon-one with you to create your custom designed outdoor kitchen in Davidsonville . You can choose from a variety of building materials that will fit seamlessly with the design of your home. Your outdoor kitchen can be customized down to every appliance you need for a delicious meal, including:

• A built-in grill – There’s no reason to leave the party when you can serve and entertain all from one location.

• A side burner – No matter what appliances you need to cook your favorite outdoor meals, we can install them.

• A refrigerator – Store extra food and drinks outside with this feature. Make outdoor cooking an enjoyable breeze.

• Sinks – Your outdoor kitchen will be just as functional as your indoor one!

• Cabinets and drawers – Not only are cabinets and drawers functional, but they can also really add to the style and wow-factor of your custom outdoor space.

• A wine cooler – Wow your guests with perfectly chilled wine ready to be served as soon as you walk outside.

• A pizza oven – Pizza simply tastes better when it’s homemade, and this is the best way to make it at home!

• A raised bar top – You may not want too many cooks in any kitchen at once, but with a raised bar top, you can stay comfortably connected with your guests while you prepare food and drinks.

Beyond outdoor cooking options, we can also install outdoor lighting and fireplaces to enhance the functionality of your new outdoor room. When you work with our outdoor kitchen builders in Davidsonville , you can expect to get all of the functionality and features that you want.

Outdoor Kitchens Can Add Value to Your Home

Our attention to detail will not only ensure you get a great place to cook and entertain, but your new outdoor kitchen in Davidsonville can also add value to your home and expand your outdoor living space. Our experts will work with you to choose a kitchen design that will complement the exterior of your home and add functionality to your yard.

Moving soon and wondering if building an outdoor kitchen is worth it? A beautiful outdoor kitchen in Davidsonville will certainly impress prospective buyers, which can make your home more appealing and increase its resale value!

16 | July/August 2023

Top-Notch Outdoor Kitchen Builders in Davidsonville

Here at Diamond Decks, we don’t just build custom outdoor kitchens in Davidsonville and beyond; we transform your backyard into a completely customtailored living space. You can even extend your outdoor kitchen with a beautiful matching patio, then install a patio cover to keep your appliances and guests protected from the elements. You might consider also creating a built-in seating area, complete with electrical wiring to install a flat screen TV.

Choose Diamond Decks to Build Your Custom Outdoor Kitchen in Davidsonville , MD

Our expert outdoor kitchen builders in Davidsonville use high-quality, durable materials to build backyard additions that will last a lifetime. No matter how you choose to expand your living space, we have the expertise needed to create a completely personalized solution.

If you can dream it, we can build it! Get started today with a free consultation for your outdoor kitchen in Davidsonville . Call us today at (443) 688-6072!
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49 WEST COFFEEHOUSE, WINEBAR & GALLERY

49 West brings art, music, and community together with great food and drink in an ambiance inspired by the traditional European coffeehouse.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily. Our bar offers an intriguing selection of beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails. Delectable desserts, baked goods (we make ’em!), and a full array of coffee confections–made with locally roasted, fresh coffee beans–are sure to please every palate.

This is the place to meet and greet in Annapolis. Our friends call 49 West “Annapolis’s Living Room.”

In our intimate listening room, we present the best in local live music nightly. Jazz, American roots, folk, indie, bluegrass, boss nova, and classical artists highlight the rich diversity of Annapolis’s music scene.

20 | July/August 2023
Local Hotspots

BAR

FEDERAL HOUSE RAMS HEAD TAVERN ANNAPOLIS

For over 25 years, Rams Head has been an award-winning favorite, serving-up creative pub fare, an outstanding happy hour with a legendary beer selection, and extraordinary live local and national music 7 nights a week. Whether in one of the cozy dining rooms, the historic pub or on the Wisteria covered patio, you’ll see why so many Annapolitans consider Rams Head to be their second home.

21 | July/August 2023
Local Hotspots

Why Move to Annapolis Area?

Annapolis, the historic capital of Maryland, has become an increasingly popular destination for families seeking a high quality of life, a strong sense of community, and access to top-rated schools and amenities. This article will explore the many reasons why families are choosing to relocate to Annapolis, from its family-friendly neighborhoods and excellent education options to its vibrant arts and culture scene and economic opportunities.

22 | July/August 2023

Annapolis Communities

Annapolis is home to numerous safe, family-oriented neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and character. Some popular communities include Admiral Heights and Cape Saint Claire. These neighborhoods offer a mix of housing options, from historic homes to modern developments, as well as access to parks, playgrounds, and other familyfriendly amenities.

Family-Oriented Events and Activities

Annapolis hosts a wide range of family-oriented events and activities throughout the year, such as the Annapolis Film Festival, Maryland Renaissance Festival, and Annapolis Arts Week. The city also offers numerous recreational programs and classes for children and adults alike, including sports leagues, art workshops, and sailing lessons. For a full list of upcoming events and activities, visit Visit Annapolis.

Top-Rated Public and Private Schools

Annapolis offers families access to multiple education options. Some of the schools in the area include Annapolis High School, St. Mary’s High School, and Severn School. To learn more about local schools and their ratings, visitGreatSchools.org

Annapolis Extracurricular Programs

In addition to excellent academics, Annapolis schools offer a variety of extracurricular programs, including sports teams, arts and music programs, and clubs focused on diverse interests. These programs provide students with opportunities to explore their passions, develop new skills, and forge lasting friendships. For more information on extracurricular offerings in Annapolis schools, visit the respective school websites or contact the school administration.

23 | July/August 2023

Access to Nature and Outdoor Activities

Living In Annapolis Maryland also gives you access to numerous parks and green spaces, providing families with ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature. Popular parks in the city include Quiet Waters Park, Truxtun Park, and Jonas and Anne Catharine Green Park. These parks offer a variety of amenities, such as playgrounds, picnic areas, hiking trails, and waterfront access. For a complete list of parks in Annapolis, visit the City of Annapolis Parks and Recreation website

Annapolis Waterfront and Boating Opportunities

Annapolis, known as the “Sailing Capital of the United States,” is situated on the Chesapeake Bay, providing families with numerous waterfront and boating opportunities. Residents can enjoy sailing, kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding, as well as exploring

the city’s numerous marinas, such asAnnapolis City Marina and Port Annapolis Marina. For more information on boating opportunities and resources in Annapolis, visit Discover Boating

Vibrant Arts and Culture Scene

Annapolis offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and cultural institutions showcasing the city’s rich history and artistic talent. Must-visit attractions include the Hammond-Harwood House, Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, and Annapolis Maritime Museum. For a comprehensive list of cultural sites, visit Visit Annapolis.

-Performing Arts Venues

The city is also home to several performing arts venues, such as Rams Head On Stage, Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre, and Annapolis Shakespeare Company, providing residents with access to a wide range of performances, including theater, dance, and live music.

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Located in the quaint village of West Annapolis, in the distinctive Trilogy Studio, Lori has created a unique experience and a very special place.

Trilogy Studio is the vision of Lori Hall of Skin Sense Body Balance, and Alison Kelly of Brows by Alison. Trilogy is an intimate studio where clients can experience the benefits of several practitioners in one peaceful setting. Enjoy the friendly relaxing atmosphere of this private studio where you are encouraged to “come as you are”. You’ll find no pretense here, everyone is welcome. Unwind in the tranquil surroundings of the studio while your concerns are addressed and treated with the care & compassion that comes from experience & knowledge.

Lori Hall is a Licensed Esthetician and a Licensed Massage Therapist specializing in holistic skin care and therapeutic massage. As the owner of Skin Sense Body Balance, she takes pride in providing each of her clients a unique experience, tailoring treatments to each individual’s needs.

Drawing upon extensive experience and continuing education, Lori brings to the skin treatment room a clear understanding of many conditions, their root

causes, and different ways to treat them. Skincare modalities range from natural organic, to the latest advancements and technologies available to Licensed Estheticians.

As a 35+ year resident of Annapolis, Lori is aware of the special skincare challenges that “living on the bay”

26 | July/August 2023
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can bring. Known for her facial treatments, each facial is customized based on the analysis of your skin and lifestyle. An expert performing Lash Lifts, Brow Design and Lamination, and Tinting, her clients are thrilled with the results!

Incorporating various techniques, Lori’s massages focus on creating a therapeutic experience in a serene

and supportive environment. From relaxing Swedish Massage to Deep Tissue techniques, the goal is to provide relief from pain and an escape from daily stresses.

Her vast knowledge is reflected in her personalized facials and massages, given with nurturing hands and a quick smile. Priceless attention will have you relaxed and revitalized, leaving with healthy radiant skin, a balanced body, and a beautiful smile on your face! Always welcoming the chance to help clients feel better about themselves, she has relied on referrals and praising testimonials to bring her an avid, loyal following.

Skin Sense Body Balance The

Harmony

of Health and

Beauty Skin Sense has enjoyed over 12 years in this friendly community of West Annapolis and follows closely the vibrant energy and changes that are taking place. Stroll and shop Annapolis Street and stop for a coffee, ice cream, a healthy juice, and light meal, or a true gourmet experience. Explore the eclectic boutiques, salons and studios, offering everything from Pilates, antiques, furniture, art, clothing, and accessories.

There is truly something for everyone!

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THINGS TO DO BEFORE YOU ADOPT A PET

So you’ve made the decision to get a dog or cat. Hooray! Pets are a lot of fun to play with and can be exceptional cuddling partners. In short, they are fantastic companions and even incredible support when we feel depressed and anxious (we’re looking at you, 2020...).

A dog or cat is a multi-year commitment of care, which includes ensuring their safety, feeding and housing them, and keeping them healthy. Yep, there’s a lot to know. So let’s get you ready to bring home your new furry family member.

1. Prepare Yourself and Your Family

Before you take the leap of adopting a new pet, you might consider fostering a dog or cat from a local shelter. Our friends at PetFinder make it easy to find local pet shelters so you can find out about fostering as well as find that new family member to adopt. Find a pet that fits your family and lifestyle. You need to ask yourself (and the people you live with!) how will a dog or cat fit into our life?

• Are you an outdoor enthusiast and want to take your best furry bud with you? Find a dog that will be able to take long hikes, sleep in a tent, hang out in the canoe. Sometimes you can train a cat to do these things too, but we don’t recommend it as a starting point!

• Do you live in a small space, like an apartment? A smaller breed of dog or a cat might be easier to live with.

• Are you away from home all day? Some breeds of dogs have eparation anxiety, especially those that end up in shelters. The last thing you want is to learn from your neighbors that your dogs is whining and barking all day while you are gone.

• Do you like a lot of quiet time? A cat, who will likely be very independent, might be the perfect new companion.

Think about the life you live now and how your new dog or cat will fit into it and what changes you will have to make to accommodate this new family member. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a new pet:

• Energy Level - of you and the pet

• Size when fully grown

• Relating to other animals and children

• Noise level of the pet

Ensure everyone knows who is responsible for the care of your pet. If it’s just you, make sure you are ready to handle everything on your own.

• Who will feed them?

• Who will clean-up after them?

• Who will check in on them during the day?

• Who will ensure they get lots of daily exercise?

29 | July/August 2023

2. Spend Time With Them Before You Bring Them Home

Go to the shelter or breeder and meet the dog or cat you want to adopt. Shelters now can offer a lot of information about the animal, but it is not a replacement for actually spending time with them in person. If possible, schedule a time to go to the breeder or the shelter and play with the dog or cat you researched online. It’s also smart to ask the staff at the shelter about the animals you are meeting. They will know more about their personality and temperament as well as any history you need to know. Spending time with them in advance gives you a chance to see if they warm up to you as well. Remember, this is a multi-year relationship that will grow from this first meeting into a deep, loving bond. It’s worth taking the time to ensure it’s a good fit for both of you.

3. Set Up a Space Just For Them

Once you have made the decision to adopt and found your new four-legged family member, it’s time to get ready to bring them home. Your home will be a completely foreign place for them, so carve out some space just for them.

For a dog, set up a crate that can become their special space that includes a bed, blanket, and toys

For a cat, set up a small, enclosed area that includes their litter box and fresh litter, food and water, and perhaps a bed, even though they will likely assume anyplace they sleep is “their” bed.

Be sure to include something from the shelter or breeder to put into that space as well. Something that smells familiar will help them settle into this strange new space called your home. You can also use a pheromone wall plug-in to help keep them calm while they settle in.

4. Pet Proof Your Home

This is a temporary step while you orient your new pet with your home. Puppies are notorious for chewing up anything within their reach. And cats love to explore and, well... knock things off counter tops. So... decide where you DON’T want them to go and close off that part of your home. You can introduce them to these areas after they get settled.

Put away cleaning supplies and poisons in places they cannot access. And remove valuables and small items they can choke on or will find too enticing to leave alone. Slippers, shoes, socks, eye glasses and anything that smells like you is fair game for your new furry pal.

Buy them their own doggie chew toys and catnip stuffies to chew on and train them to stay away from chewing on your socks and pens.

5. Find a Local Veterinarian

You should plan to schedule your pet’s first visit right away. The shelter will be able to tell you what vaccines they have had and when their next shots are due. They will also be able to tell you if they have any health issues. Choosing a vet is a very personal thing, like choosing your doctor. Think about what kind of experience you want for yourself and your furry pal.

If you like a bigger vet clinic with a more well known name, you may find it easier to get an appointment, but may not know the vet who will meet with you. If you prefer to make a relationship with one vet, find a smaller clinic nearby.

Consider asking your friends and family what vets they like. Pet parents, like human parents, have passionate opinions about the care of their family members and will likely give you an honest assessment of their experience.

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6. Look Into Pet Insurance

The average person spends between $300 and $400 per year on their pet’s care. This doesn’t include veterinary visits, which can add cost anywhere from $200 for a check up and to $5,000 for treatments and surgeries. Pet insurance, while not widely known in the US, is an excellent way to lower the cost of caring for a pet. Plans range from about $10 per month for plans with less coverage to $80 per month for more comprehensive plans. One of the main benefits of pet insurance is to help pay for unexpected illness or injury, which can quickly become very expensive. Our friends at Pawlicy have a terrific blog post that outlines the pros and cons of pet insurance from a veterinarian’s perspective. Keep in mind that you are looking for the best plan to save you money and ensure your new furry family member gets care when they need it without hurting your wallet. Investopedia and Consumer Advocates also offer excellent comparisons of the top pet insurance companies in the US.

7. Plan to Introduce Them to Other Pets

Introducing your current pet to your new pet is a very important part of your planning process. Rather than fill this guide with how to navigate this with both dogs and cats, we have gathered the best information we could find for your specific situation.

INTRODUCE A CAT TO ANOTHER CAT

8. Find a Good Dog Trainer

Conventional wisdom suggests that dog training is actually designed to train the people in the dog’s life to communicate well with the dog. This makes a lot of sense as your goal with a trainer is to understand what your new furry family member needs, wants, and is trying to communicate with you. And, when successful, helps the pet know where they fit in the pecking order in the household. Training is an ongoing process that continues after the classes end. Just like with a kid who is constantly pushing boundaries, a pet that is allowed to run wild, will eventually learn that this is the norm and happily continue this behavior.

Another important aspect of training is that it must include every human who lives in the house, especially children, who must find a way to communicate with your pets so the pet listens to them as well. How will you find a trainer near you? We’re so glad you asked! Check out:

• Bark.com has listings for all things local, even local dog training

• The Association of Professional Dog Trainers has an extensive list of trainers

• The Certified Council for Professional Dog Trainers has lots of resources lots of training resources

• Thumbtack has listings for local dog trainers too!

WHAT ABOUT CAT TRAINING?

Although it is believed you can’t train cats, we found some resources that prove otherwise from Hill’s Pet Nutrition offers a variety of cat training tips and Daily Paws that shares 7 essential commands you can teach your cat.

9. Learn... Learn... Learn

There is a good reason Millennials refer to pet ownership as training for children. Caring for another being, be it furry or human, is a multi-year, deep commitment that requires learning... and more learning. Since this list is long and full of detail, bookmark this page and come back to it.

We also have listed below the resources we went to as we researched this article. You should read them too. The more you know, the better your life with your new pet will be.

10. Be Patient With Yourself!

You will likely make lots of mistakes in your first days and weeks with your new dog or cat. You are all adjusting to living in the same house and creating a new rhythm together. If things go sideways, refer back to articles just like this one. Ask your pet parent friends and family how they settled into a routine with their furry family. And be patient with yourself. You will find your way together.

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We strive to collaborate with dedicated clients, professional builders, talented consultants, and budget mindfulness…to navigate the vision of a project, the design and documentation process, the completion of permitting, and the process of construction…to create a project that embodies that vision.

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SPIRE Architecture, our vision is a world where we
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BEST Summer BOOK READS

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For those who love snuggling up with a good book, reading is the pinnacle of relaxation.

Whether you plan to read this summer while lounging in a hammock, sitting on a sandy shore, or staying indoors next to a window basking in the sunlight with the added comfort of your air conditioner, you’ll still need one thing: the perfect summer read. Actually, you’ll likely need several books to read this summer.

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JULY/AUGUST 2023 Outdoor Kitchen Why move to Annapolis Area Summer Issue

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