Where Young Artists Come to Create! « on to dog agility, confirmation [breed judging], obedience, therapy dogs, and/or working with our breed-specific rescue group.” While the family pets are teaching her girls lessons about hard work and responsibility—they help clean cages, take the dogs to obedience classes, make sure all the animals are watered and fed daily, and other duties—Kim says they’re teaching them lessons in humanity as well. “They’re learning that the animals depend on them…that all animals need love and attention, and that playtime is a requirement of pet ownership, too. They’re learning that animals feel…and they’re all unique. Samantha, especially, has taken a real interest in learning about the differences in dog breeds and their temperaments and behavior.” The family has also done some work with a dog rescue club, which has allowed the girls to see how some pet owners treat pets as disposable. “I want them to understand that pet ownership is a commitment, and you don’t get rid of a pet because you’re bored with them or so you can get another. It’s not temporary,” adds Kim. Having so many pets does offer its challenges, Kim admits. The family has to budget for yearly vaccinations and heartworm pills, boarding and farrier fees, vet bills, and of course, pet food and supplies. All the expenses can add up. Taking any trip can also be a hassle. “We always have to ask, ‘Who’s going to take care of the animals?’ before we can go anywhere.” Recently, Kim and Brian approached the girls about taking a vacation to Disneyland. The girls’ response? “They told us they wanted to go to New Orleans where they make Pitbulls & Parolees or to the Florida Everglades to see where Gator Boys is shot.” These are two Animal Planet shows the family watches together. A love of animals is ingrained in them for life, Kim says. “A lot of what we do revolves around the animals, especially the dogs. They join us for fire-pit nights with the neighbors…they sleep in our bed…they’re there for just about everything.” And that’s just how the Hanuseks like it. bestofomaha.com
Saturday • Children’s Art Classes • Ages 5-11 9:30 am-11:00 am
Pre-enrollments for Holiday and Spring Break Going on Now. Tons of fun age appropriate activities planned. Come check us out!
SMART START leARning CenTeR | 2020 n. 72nd Street | Mon.-Fri. 5:30am-6:30pm | 402-614-2722 Christmas Open House Nov 9 - 10 • 8 am - 4 pm 20% Off Total Purchase
See us at the Assistance League Christmas caravan house on Nov 8th. 84th and 1st St, Downtown Papillion 402-331-9136
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