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Debbie Swanson

Debbie Swanson (www.swansonwriting.com) is a freelance writer living north of Boston. She often writes about pet care, senior living and family topics.

Pet Care

Need Help With Pet Care? Try These Services

When mobility is an issue, these options can make a big difference
September 4, 2019
Caregivers

Caregivers: When's the Last Time You Took a Vacation?

Time to relax and recharge is essential for you and your loved one
April 18, 2019
Long-Distance Caregiving

Advice for Long-Distance Caregiving Challenges

How to set things up to ensure your loved one remains safe and well
February 28, 2019
Caregiver

What Can You Do to Ease a Caregiver's Burden?

Giving thought to what she or he needs makes the help more meaningful
November 28, 2018
dog

8 Fun Things You and Your Dog Can Do Together

Think outside the dog park — there are more ways to enjoy the company of your pooch
August 30, 2018
Doesn't speak English

Finding Housing When Mom Doesn’t Speak English

The challenge may become greater when dementia is present
May 8, 2018
Holiday Gifts

Non-Sugary Holiday Gifts That Say Thanks

Ideas for people you pay to help your family and maintain your home
December 8, 2017
Hobbies

Transform Your Hobbies Into New Opportunities

Adding to your skills can help you make money and friends
November 9, 2017

What to Tell the Kids About Their Grandparent's Dementia

It's a difficult topic, but children need honest answers
May 9, 2017

Psychiatric Service Dogs Fill a Need for the Mentally Ill

Those with PTSD, Alzheimer's and dementia may be helped by these canines
February 2, 2017
Close up of hands cutting vegetables on a wooden board in cooking class. Food like beans, carrots and mushrooms are getting ready to be cooked on a kitchen desk.

How to Cook for a Vegetarian Dinner Guest

Don't make her pick the meatballs out of the spaghetti, and other tips
September 19, 2016
Corgi dog

Is Marijuana Safe for Your Pet?

You don't want Rocky sampling your stash, but pot might help his aches and pains
June 23, 2016
Screaming woman

Why Is My Mother With Dementia So Difficult?

How to deal with hostility, anger and public outbursts
March 10, 2016
6-Ways-to-Help-a-Friend-Through-Pet-Loss-516548257

5 Ways to Help When a Friend Loses a Pet

What to do and not to do when your pal is grieving
September 21, 2015
SecondHand Hounds

The Joy of Fostering a Senior Dog

You and your adopted companion benefit when you open your home
July 2, 2015
Labrador puppy

Volunteer Puppy Love: Raising a Service Dog

Service groups rely on volunteers to socialize their dogs. Could you be a puppy raiser?
August 20, 2013
From foster owners to marketing veterans, animal shelters need people with time.

10 Ways You Can Help Pets in Need

Animal shelters need volunteers who can donate their time and skills, from foster care to photography
May 3, 2013
Size, energy, grooming needs and risks of illness can rule out certain pets.

Bad Dog or Wrong Owner? Challenging Pets for Anyone Aging in Place

Size, energy, noise, grooming needs and even health risks may rule out certain pet companions
March 25, 2013
Pet fish can be a great option for empty nesters.

4 Fun Pets for Your Empty Nest

Cats and dogs aren't the only great companions. Add a little life to your home with birds, fish, rabbits — or even a rat!
February 1, 2013
Poodles and Yorkshire terriers are among small dog options for empty nesters.

6 Best Small Dogs for Your Empty Nest

These smaller breeds are more manageable than big pups, but full of energy and affection
January 16, 2013
Riding a bike with your dog

8 Great Ways to Exercise With Your Pet

From doga to Treibball to skijoring, these fun new activities can get you and your dog in great shape
October 15, 2012
a boston terrier dog in the grass

The 10 Best Pet Companions to Have at Your Side

These dog and cat companions provide multiple benefits.
May 24, 2012
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