Melinda Rezman MA LCPC CADC

12/16/2025

12/16/2025

Posted by FAM Networks | In Germany, some new dog owners really do have to pass a test before taking a dog home 🐾🇩🇪

In several German states, first time dog owners are required to complete the Hundeführerschein, or dog owner’s license. It includes a written exam that checks whether owners understand essential topics like nutrition, behavior, stress signals and responsible care. The goal is simple… to make sure people know what a dog truly needs before bringing one into their life. While not a nationwide rule, regions that use it have seen better welfare outcomes and fewer neglect cases.

After the written part, many areas also require a practical test. This means owners must show they can safely walk, handle and communicate with a dog in real situations. Trainers observe how the owner reacts to distractions, how they guide the dog and how calmly they maintain control. The exam isn’t meant to intimidate… it’s meant to protect both the animal and the community by ensuring dogs receive proper care and training from day one.

Germany’s approach shows a deep respect for animals. Instead of treating pet ownership as a casual decision, it asks people to understand the responsibility that comes with a living, feeling companion. And when owners are better prepared, dogs get safer homes, happier lives and fewer end up in shelters.



References
BBC News: Germany’s dog owner licensing rules.
Deutsche Welle: Explanation of the Hundeführerschein system.
American Kennel Club: International dog ownership regulations.
The Local Germany: How the dog owner test works in different states.

12/16/2025

“For most people, their spiritual teacher is their suffering—because eventually the suffering brings about awakening.” —Eckhart Tolle

11/24/2025

3. Constantly feeling lonely, even when with a partner.

11/08/2025

The 'Spirit Molecule' - present in plants and animals across nearly every human culture. DMT is a substance of great academic interest, and also said to deliver some of the most powerful, mystical experiences. While its use has been clinically shown to be of little physical danger, the risks of psychedelic crisis, post-experience trauma and drug interactions still exist.

Learn how to mitigate risks, and trip safer with Psychedelic Society's Harm Reduction resources, which include substance specific guides and links to further reading and organisations. Protect your friends and yourself, through knowledge.

https://psychedelicsociety.org.uk/risk-harm-reduction/dmt

11/08/2025

11/08/2025

A recent study from Columbia University suggests that children who have dinner with their family at least four times a week tend to perform better academically. Regular family meals provide opportunities for communication, emotional bonding, and parental engagement, which can positively influence a child’s learning habits. These shared meals also create structured routines that promote discipline and consistency in daily life. Additionally, family dinners offer a supportive environment for discussing schoolwork and encouraging curiosity and critical thinking. Overall, the practice of eating together strengthens both social and cognitive skills in children.

08/25/2025

The New Yorker

08/25/2025

Research on sibling de-identification and parental preferences.