SWNS

Half of America’s dogs come running just from the sound of a treat bag, new research suggests. According to a recent poll of 2,000 dog owners, 47% said that their dog reacts instinctively to the noise made when a treat container is opened. Fifty-two percent are also likely to run over when they hear words like “treat” or “cookie,” while only 37% consistently respond to the sound of their own name. According to those polled, the average dog knows an average of five spoken commands, implying at least a fifth of the vocabulary dogs understand is treat-based. Reported by OnePoll on behalf of CLIF PET™, the results further confirm that 67% of dogs are “very food motivated.” Four in ten respondents give their dogs treats as a way to reward them, making it the most popular reason among those polled. Three in four even believe they wouldn’t have been able to teach their dog any commands without using treats. Roughly 21% of respondents give treats to their dog at least once a day, while 18% admitted to handing out multiple treats in a day. Maybe that’s why respondents mistakenly estimated that treats should represent, on average, 27% of a dog’s overall caloric intake – even though according to experts, the real recommended amount no more than 10%. “It’s easy to get carried away when treating your dog, but it’s important to remember to treat in moderation,” said Greg Lok, Head of Incubator at Clif Bar & Company. “One way to do this is to look for treats made with wholesome ingredients so you can ensure your pup is getting a quality treat, and to opt for easy-to-tear treat options that help you treat more responsibly.” Overall, 64% said they look to their dogs to make them feel better on bad days. More than a third (39%) said they’re much more likely to use treats as a way to cheer their dog up, while 32% use treat-giving as a way to cheer themselves up. In fact, 62% agreed that giving their dogs a treat is more of a reward for them than for the dog itself.

The secret to happiness may be expressing gratitude, new research suggests. A survey of 2,000 Americans looked at the potential connection between gratitude and happiness — revealing that 65% of respondents who say they’re “very happy” on a daily basis were more likely to “always” give thanks. While looking at the correlation between life satisfaction and gratitude, a third of respondents said they “always” express gratitude in their everyday lives. Of those, 62% noted they were “very satisfied” with their lives. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Motivosity, the study also found that, on average, respondents believe they express gratitude to others about six times a month – and they receive the same amount of appreciation back.

From seeing their loved ones' faces to watching the sun rise and set – these are some of the things Americans would miss looking at the most if they ever lost their eyesight. A new survey of 2,000 Americans found that respondents would also miss seeing their children’s milestones (26%), nature (23%), their pets (22%) and their favorite TV shows/movies (15%). When asked which of the five senses are the most important to them, vision came out on top with 77% of the votes. The other senses, such as hearing (14%), touching (6%), smelling (2%) and tasting (1%), trailed extremely far behind. With that in mind, it’s no surprise that 65% wish they took better care of their eyes, while another 58% feel they take their eyesight for granted. The study, which was conducted by OnePoll for NVISION, also found that the average person starts worrying about their eyesight at 39 years old. And although 48% of respondents rate their eyesight as “good,” most find it “easy” to take care of their eyes (62%), while a fifth find it difficult (19%). Respondents said they find it easy because they simply care about their vision (69%), they have a good eye doctor (51%) and follow a daily routine (48%). Those who find it difficult to care for their eyes cited many challenges, such as their insurance not covering many of their eye treatments (48%), not having the resources to do so (39%) and not having a good eye doctor (38%). Regardless, 45% believe it’s “very important” to visit the eye doctor annually, with respondents saying they’ve gone to their optometrist an average of four times in the last five years. And respondents have also taken matters into their own hands to better care for their eyes. Eating a healthy diet (43%), wearing sunglasses (41%), getting more sleep (40%), drinking more water (40%), avoiding rubbing their eyes too much (39%) and washing their hands regularly (38%) are some of the steps people have taken to maintain their eyes. “Every day, I see patients with eye diseases that were either preventable or treatable if caught earlier,” said Dr. Dagny Zhu, a Harvard-trained surgeon at NVISION Eye Centers. “Patients who eat healthy, exercise regularly, don’t smoke, and wear sunglasses can prolong the health of their eyes and delay the need for some treatments like cataract surgery. Other eye problems like glaucoma are ‘silent’ and go unnoticed until it’s too late and significant vision has been lost. That’s why it’s so important to take care of our eyes and to see the eye doctor regularly for routine checkups.” The survey further asked respondents about their opinions on several eye health statements – with 46% believing that staring directly at the sun is bad for your eyes, which Zhu says is the case. Many think wearing the wrong eyeglasses (39%) and staring at the TV very closely can cause damage (38%). Other statements people are more likely to believe are true are “reading in dim light is harmful to your eyes” (35%), “using computers frequently can damage your eyes” (35%) and “you lose your vision as you age” (34%). Zhu also points out that vision gets worse with age. And when asked about LASIK eye surgery, of the 72% of respondents who have never been through the procedure, 43% revealed they wouldn’t be afraid to undergo surgery if their eyesight were to diminish. In comparison, 35% expressed hesitation – mainly because of their fear of becoming permanently blind (67%), pain (53%) and the recovery process (47%). “LASIK is one of the most studied elective procedures available today and has been shown to be safe and effective with a high level of patient satisfaction. LASIK is not painful,” added Zhu. “There are many safety mechanisms built into the laser machine, making complications during the procedure extremely rare.” THE TOP 10 THGS AMERICANS WOULD MISS SEEG IF THEY EVER LOST THEIR VISION Their loved ones' faces - 37% Their children’s milestones - 26% Nature - 23% Their pets - 22% Their favorite TV shows/movies - 15% Certain colors - 13% The sunrise/sunset - 13% Their milestones - 12% Reading their favorite books - 11% Food - 11%

Teachers make such an impact on us – six in 10 parents claim they can name every teacher they had in their childhood (62%), according to a new survey. The study of 2,000 American parents of children ages 0 to 18 examined respondents’ early childhood education memories and revealed that three in four parents credit their former teachers for positively influencing their lives (76%) – such as showing them how to be a better person (58%), impacting the hobbies they picked up (52%) and half even saw them as a role model (51%). What parents remember the most about their early childhood education experience is learning new subjects (56%), making new friends (55%) and learning how to be creative (53%). Almost half of parents also consider having their teachers invest in them (48%) and playing with their favorite toy or game (47%) as some of their best school memories. That may be why 73% say they learned more life and social skills during their early school years versus their later ones. The research conducted by OnePoll on behalf of the Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care system further suggests that teachers play a very important role in their students’ lives – since 73% say that if it weren’t for their teachers, they wouldn’t be the person they are today. It’s no surprise that two in three parents (68%) had a “favorite” teacher when they were in school, and 60% even admit that they still stay in touch with one or several former teachers from their childhood. But why was their “favorite” teacher their favorite? One parent said, “Because she took her own time to help me get caught up in math.” Others recalled that their teachers “influenced the career I chose” and “they gave me extra help.” Most respondents keep in contact with their elementary school (59%) and preschool (54%) teachers – mainly because they want to know how they’re doing (71%), to show their appreciation (66%) and to keep them up to date with their lives (61%). “We've seen how the pandemic has deeply affected teachers,” said Joy Turner, vice president of education for the Kiddie Academy brand. “These findings speak to how integral they are in our students’ daily lives and how early learning is more important than ever. Whether it’s creating a nurturing classroom environment for young children or helping them develop soft skills — we see children successfully transition to elementary school and beyond fully prepared.” Parents also reflected on their children’s education and social skills. Despite their kids being more creative than when they were children (49% vs. 44%), four in five parents still encourage them to be as creative as possible (79%). The way parents motivate their children to be more creative include: watching educational shows/videos together (57%), engaging in arts and crafts with them (52%), enrolling them in after-school programs (50%), playing educational games together (48%) and taking them on educational field trips (47%). Over half (54%) think being creative has a significant impact on helping a child develop socially, such as making new friends or having positive relationships. But for 78% of parents, the most important thing they want to instill in their children is to be a good person. While 73% are satisfied with their children’s current education, more than that believe teachers don’t get enough credit for all that they do (80%). That’s why four in five parents (81%) always encourage their children to show appreciation toward their teachers. “As teachers, we know that a child’s early experiences and relationships, especially in the first five years of life, are critical for development,” added Turner. “When you pursue a career in teaching you have to be committed to doing what’s right for children because the impact lasts a lifetime.” Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 parents of children ages 0 to 18 was commissioned by Kiddie Academy between August 2 and August 11, 2022. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).

If you want to own a pet, then be prepared to have an annual budget of over $3,500 for their essential needs. A new study of 2,000 pet owners – 1,000 of whom own dogs and 1,000 cat owners – revealed that half of all respondents have set up a monthly budget for their pets (52%) with an average cap of $308. In reality, pet owners, on average, spend $276.40 on their furry pals each month, which translates to $3,316.80 annually. While nearly all respondents have gone over their monthly budget (98%), four in five admit they “don’t care” if they go over their pet’s budget limit (79%) – but what causes them to do so? Pet care (37%), emergency vet visits (35%), upgrading their pet’s home situation and taking care of annual or ongoing medical needs (both 33%) were all cited as the main reasons why. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Lemonade, the research also found that 45% of all pet owners think dogs are more expensive than cats, 13% think the opposite and 42% think they’re both equally costly. Respondents think dogs are expensive because the food (54%), vet checkups (52%), medicine (50%), grooming (46%) and cleaning products (38%) are pricey. On the other hand, people think cats are pricier due to expensive food (41%), vet checkups (40%), bedding (38%), cleaning products (38%) and grooming (38%). And when they splurge on their pets, owners go all out – citing they have bought them trendy items, such as all-natural pet food (38%), raw pet food (31%), a modified home like a catio (29%), pet-friendly baked goods and desserts (28%) and pet tech like a smart collar (25%). But the research suggests that more than half (55%) don’t have an insurance policy for their furry pals, citing cost as the main challenge (41%). Out of the 45% whose pets have insurance, they researched an average of three policies for their furry companions before selecting the best match. Two in five (41%) realized they needed to purchase an insurance policy for their pets from the day they got them, and the same percentage listed an emergency visit/surgery as the top reason they got one in the first place. Regardless of whether their pets have insurance, three in four owners agree that it’s important to plan for their dog or cat’s end-of-life care (75%). “There’s no doubt that bringing a pet into your home can add immense unconditional love, but it’s important to understand they do come with a cost,” stated Dr. Stephanie Liff, vet health expert at Lemonade. “Whether it’s a routine vet visit, food, toys, or an emergency surgery, pets have financial needs that can add up. Being prepared and knowing your options, whatever that looks like for an individual owner, is crucial to have in place before there is an issue that becomes a heavy financial burden.” Four in 10 respondents have gone into debt because of their pets' emergency needs (42%). Procedures and care can get expensive for pets and, according to the results, many pet owners are fairly unaware when it comes to how much they cost. For example, 41% of pet parents think something like dental work for pets costs between $101 and $500. But in reality, a routine dental cleaning, on average, costs somewhere between $500 and $1,000, with more complicated dental procedures costing up to $3,000. A third of respondents think expensive cancer treatments and surgery cost as low as $501 to $1,000, when in reality, according to Lemonade, some dog or cat surgeries can easily cost $5,000 or more, with a full round of cancer treatments setting pet parents back $10,000. Meanwhile, many pet parents think flea treatments (36%) and vaccinations (34%) cost between $101 and $500, but in reality, flea treatments are around $15 per month and vaccines cost up to $50 per dose. “Insurance doesn’t need to be intimidating, but it is important to do your research and find the best solution for your family,” added Dr. Liff. “Look for plans that are customizable to ensure you’re paying for what you really need, are easy to understand, and can get you the help you need when you need it.”

Two-thirds of parents are relieved when the school year starts, but not because they want a break from their children. According to a recent poll of 2,000 parents of children ages 0-6, 56% believe that returning to school gives their children an opportunity to regain normalcy by engaging in social activities. And parents believe school is for more than just learning new things (54%); it’s also for making new friends (50%) and learning crucial social-emotional skills (48%), which can include those that help them cope with daily challenges and grow academically, professionally and socially. Conducted by OnePoll, on behalf of The Goddard School, the survey uncovered how parents are immersing their children in social interactions before and throughout the pandemic. Overall, nearly two-thirds of parents (61%) believe that the pandemic has put their child behind both socially and developmentally. Further, almost three quarters (70%) of parents indicated social-emotional learning and learning social skills are the most important growth areas for their child. In fact, learning social skills (36%) and gaining social-emotional intelligence (35%) were two of the top cited areas in which parents believe their children need the most support or improvement. Pre-pandemic, more than half (55%) of parents engaged their child in some sort of social activity between three and six times per week. But during the pandemic, that number dropped to 44%, and 11% of parents said their child engaged in zero social activities during this time. Today, the most common ways parents engage their children in social activities are through parents as caregivers talking and singing to them (47%) and attending family events (46%). On average, parents believe their child has four friends. In order to help them make more friends, parents are helping their children learn crucial social-emotional skills by engaging them in extracurricular or group activities (50%), teaching them how to listen to others (48%) and teaching them to share with others (44%). "As families across the country continue to adapt to the evolving changes in daily life caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for social-emotional development has never been greater. The survey data shows parents are taking note and are prioritizing social-emotional development to help their children grow after a challenging period of time for us all,” said Dr. Lauren Starnes, senior vice president and chief academic officer at Goddard Systems, franchisor of The Goddard School. “It’s critical that children learn and have opportunities to practice essential social-emotional skills such as self-awareness, decision making, self-management, social awareness and friendship skills so they’re not just school ready, but also life and career ready.” Parents are learning from their children too: 77% agree that they learn from their children just as much as their children learn from them. The top two social-emotional skills that children have taught their parents are understanding (52%) and patience (52%). And on top of that, parents admit that they’re surprised by their child’s maturity and intelligence about five times per week. When asked about the most important social-emotional skill their child has taught them, one respondent said, “empathy, sometimes I forget how it is to be young and emphasize with their feelings. They are teaching me that now.” Other popular responses included “happiness” and “honesty.” “Schools today should be striving to strengthen the home to school connection and striving to be true partners of our students’ parents,” said Dennis R. Maple, chairman and CEO of Goddard Systems. “Children learn meaningful lessons at school, and parents are provided with the tools to continue their child’s education at home. TOP WAYS PARENTS BELIEVE THEIR CHILDREN BENEFIT FROM SCHOOL BEYOND CURRICULUM Learning social skills - 47% Making friends - 47% Getting exposure to new situations - 45% Learning how to problem solve - 45% Gaining social-emotional intelligence - 44% Learning how to be independent - 44% Complying with social standards - 40%

The average person has 13 TV shows and 16 movies on their watch list to get through — averaging 104 total hours — enough content to last for a globe-trotting flight around the world twice over. According to a survey of 2,000 adults, 68% of Americans have a TV show and movie watch list so long, it’s “nearly impossible” for them to get through it. Over seven in 10 (73%) have a list of shows and films they’ve been meaning to watch. Yet only 58% of them have made it through their entire list. Meanwhile, of the 42% who have failed to make it through their list, they claim the biggest obstacles are dealing with the list consistently getting longer (43%), that it’s already too long (29%) or that it’s overwhelming (25%). The most popular, well-known shows at the top of people's current watch list include Stranger Things (24%), Game of Thrones (21%), The Walking Dead (21%), Breaking Bad (19%) and Squid Game (19%). Millennials are nearly twice as likely to have true crime shows on their watchlists than Gen-Z (45% compared to 26%). Gen-Z, on the other hand, was found to have a penchant for sitcoms (38%). Gen X and baby boomers both prefer full-hour procedurals (50% and 58%, respectively). The study, commissioned by the global streaming media platform Plex and conducted by OnePoll, found that 58% said they struggle to keep track of everything they want to watch, making organizing their watch list a “must.” When organizing the list of content they want to watch, 39% said they either use a note in their phone or a physical, written list to track shows and movies, while 40% say they just try to remember what they want to watch. Women were found to be especially fond of keeping a mental list in their head — 46% said they try to remember what they want to watch, compared to just 32% of men. Meanwhile, 46% of men said they prefer using a note in their phones. Nearly a third (31%) have had the content from their list recommended to them by friends or family. A quarter (25%) get recommendations from influencers or social media. “With the high volume of amazing new shows and movies that are released weekly, it can be overwhelming to keep track of everything you want to watch,” said Jason Williams, Product Director at Plex. “A universal watchlist that tracks movies and shows across all major streaming platforms, will help you manage what to watch and where to watch it.” While the list people tends to continually grow, getting to a point where they can watch content is becoming just as complex. The average person subscribes to, or has access to, four different streaming platforms at any given time. Half said it’s a struggle to find out what streaming platform content is on, averaging 30 minutes flipping from one platform to another searching for something to watch. Two-thirds (65%) said they would prefer watching something from their list before defaulting to something else — but it takes the average person a half hour and flipping back and forth between four different streaming platforms to decide on what to watch. For over half (56%), they’ll opt to turn off the TV and find something else to do if they can’t find something to watch, and almost as many (55%) will end up re-watching an old favorite if they can’t find anything else. “You shouldn’t have to flip back and forth between apps to find what you want to watch,” continued Jason Williams. “For many, the ideal, most enjoyable streaming experience should be accessible across the web, mobile, and TV — it should also know what content you have access to, your interests, and your watchlist.” TOP 15 SHOWS ON PEOPLES’ WATCH LISTS Stranger Things - 24% Game of Thrones - 21% The Walking Dead - 21% Breaking Bad - 19% Squid Game - 19% The Crown - 18% The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel - 18% Euphoria - 18% The Mandalorian - 18% Better Call Saul - 18% Friends - 17% Avatar: The Last Airbender - 17% Sherlock - 16% Succession - 16% Ted Lasso - 15%

Two-thirds of working moms believe between four and eight months is the ideal time off for maternity leave, according to new research. A survey looked at 2,000 employed moms of school-aged children return to the workforce and found that six in 10 moms went back to work less than four months after their child was born, with 26% reporting they returned to work less than two months. Results showed that while many moms had an easy time getting back in the hang of things when going back to work (55%), 35% said it was hard for them to regain their footing at work after being away. Respondents cite barriers related to breastfeeding including time and privacy to pump and a secure place to store breastmilk among the top challenges of returning to work after being home. The survey commissioned by SurePayroll found that many moms had a hard time not being around their child (55%) or getting used to a schedule again (33%). Yet, most mothers agree that they feel gratified by the work they’re able to accomplish outside of their household (71%) and that they’re ready to take on the workforce, whether to make enough income for their family (56%) or because they want to further their careers (25%). Fifty-seven percent of moms said they missed being at their job while on leave. The results showed the top things they missed about their job were their work itself (42%) and sharing time with their colleagues (41%). Almost two-thirds (64%) said their drive to climb the corporate ladder was already high before their child’s birth, and 54% of working moms are more motivated than ever to continue their career ascension. But the climb isn’t always easy, as 46% believe they’ve already been treated as if they’re not committed to their work because they have children and 51% think they weren’t considered for a promotion or new opportunity because of being a mom. Many also recognize that the road toward their goals may still be winding, with 57% admitting they’re concerned that issues with finding child care will harm their career progression. Respondents report gender-based bias — “archaic thought processes and opinions about women’s roles,” “male-dominated” jobs and “alpha-males who think that a woman’s place is in the home”— finding work-life balance, and “the mental workload of managing both the home and the job” as key barriers to women to climbing the corporate ladder. One-quarter of respondents said the workforce is different now from before their child was born. Half of the moms surveyed have switched jobs since their child was born, and most of these respondents said the search for a new job was more challenging than for their previous job (64%). Similarly, 63% said they find the interview process for a new job to be more challenging than they originally remembered. “Attracting and retaining moms in today’s competitive job market requires a creative, flexible and personalized approach, starting with the interview process,” said Linda Alperin, head of sales at SurePayroll. “Hiring your team’s next star contributor could very well come down to how a mom returning to the workforce views their interview experience.” Two-thirds of respondents shared that before their child’s birth, they felt the need to “have it all” by being a good mom, having a successful career and balancing other aspects of their life; currently, 70% of these respondents still feel this pressure. However, nearly half of respondents said being back at work makes them feel like a better mom (48%). And some are ready to be their own boss, with 59% of moms who aren’t already small business owners expressing interest in opening one. “Women own about 43% of small businesses in the U.S., generating roughly $1.9 trillion per year. Women want to open small businesses for a variety of reasons including greater flexibility, more control, and the ability to turn their passion to profit,” said Alperin. “More than ever, women want to have it all, and small business ownership is a path to that goal.”

According to a new survey, the average American has accidentally sent six intimate messages or photos to the wrong person throughout their lifetime. A survey of 2,000 Americans split evenly by gender and age examined their thoughts and views on intimate photos and found that a third of all respondents admitted to sending an intimate photo in the past, sharing a preference for social media and text messages (54%, each). Still, 43% think that nude photos are considered “taboo,” according to the survey, with Gen Z being the most open-minded. More than half of Americans want to change this perspective, agreeing that there should be less stigma around consenting adults sharing these photos (53%). The survey run by OnePoll in partnership with Avast Photo Vault found that, on average, people receive more intimate photos of others than they share of themselves. Half of those who send intimate photos said they do so at least once a week (52%), and another 29% send them once a month or more. Many cite long-distance relationships (46%), their partner asking for them (45%), or feeling attractive (44%) as the top reasons for sending these photos, while 42% said they just felt like it. On the other hand, those who have never sent an intimate photo worry about the prospect of them being shared with others (21%) or impacting their reputation (19%). However, four in five worry their intimate pictures could fall into the wrong hands, and 69% are worried these may be held against them. Similarly, 79% are concerned that others have these photos saved on their devices. An equal amount of men and women, 39%, said they keep intimate photos of themselves on their devices. Perhaps this is because a third of respondents admit they’re not sure how to safely send an intimate photo (32%). Most respondents admitted keeping their own photos (79%) and others’ (82%) saved on their personal devices in a password-protected folder (48%) or on their device’s gallery (46%). "Are we all really doing it? Why, yes. A third of Americans have shared a nude photo, and 73% do so as often as once a month,” said Shan Boodram, intimacy expert and certified sexologist. “It can be a healthy expression between you and your partner! Here's some advice: before even considering sending these photos, establish a code of trust with the person you're sharing them with and have an open conversation to ensure privacy on both parties' end. Be aware of the ways to share and send photos safely.” Protecting yourself is more important than ever, as nearly three-quarters of those who shared intimate photos found that they were leaked or shared without their permission (73%). In response, they pursued legal action (43%) or confronted the person (34%). “We don’t see the sharing of intimate photos as a fad or trend, but as a part of our ever-growing digital lives, so the need for critical online safety measures is more important than ever. People need to consider a digital shoebox for this content,” said Emma McGowan, privacy and security expert and writer at Avast. “Mobile security products that contain features to protect users like photo vaults allow users to move photos to an encrypted folder are safe options. These should be protected by a passcode or Face ID, and remove these images from the device’s ‘Photos’ app.”

Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos and Steve Jobs are considered the top three most influential modern entrepreneurs, according to new research. The survey of 2,000 Americans gave respondents a list of over 40 entrepreneurs from the last 50 years and asked them to select those who’ve made the biggest positive impact on society. Respondents chose the founders of Microsoft, Amazon and Apple to top the list, with Elon Musk — founder of SpaceX — and Mark Zuckerberg — founder of Facebook — rounding out the top five.

Grab your ring light, selfie stick and headphones — four in 10 Americans think they have what it takes to be the next content creator superstar. A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults found that 41% have considered going into one of the nation’s fastest-growing industries: content creation. Nearly a third (30%) said they’ve already gone viral. Motivated by money (39%), sharing their passions (37%) and being their own boss (35%), many believe content creation should be treated as a real job (58%).

Burgers, hot dogs and chicken wings have been given the official “God tier” status according to BBQ fans – proving the classics have stood the test of time, despite the rise of alternative menus across America. This guide to the best of the barbecue foods shows the likes of cauliflower ‘steak’, couscous and halloumi appear lowest on American’s wishlists. Seafood makes up a huge portion of the “good” tier including salmon, lobster and white fish. Second from the bottom – the “meh” tier – features sweet dishes such as banana and pineapple, as well as lamb chops and tuna steak. Somewhat controversially, bacon was also in the ‘meh’ category. The study of 2,000 US adults revealed the nation’s favorite and least favorite barbecue foods with 49% preferring traditional dishes compared to 26% who opt for alternatives. The likes of avocado (38%), hummus (36%) and eggplant (33%) are considered ‘elevated’ barbecue foods. Commissioned by St Pierre Bakery and conducted by OnePoll, the study found 65% believe traditional grill dishes have stood the test of time, with 57% claiming hot dogs and burgers are unbeatable. “The god tier ratings are definitely a conversation starter and everyone will have their own opinion on the best and worst barbecue foods”, said a spokesperson for St Pierre. “We know the Labor Day weekend will be a popular time for grilling and while the weather can sometimes surprise us, it could well be the last barbecue opportunity of the year. “This list is perfectly timed to help inspire hosts on what to serve hungry guests. “It’s clear that Americans are not enticed by a fruity dessert on the barbie such as bananas or pineapple but hosts looking to impress should offer a variety of bread options for burgers and hot dogs to feed the crowds.” The study also found 41% plan to host a barbecue this Labor Day while 47% will be attending one. Almost half (45%) like to try out new dishes when grilling to impress others. Meals to impress at a cookout include a whole chicken (32%), beef brisket (29%) and upgrading from standard bread to brioche rolls (25%). Many describe their own barbecues as unique (48%), flavorful (48%) and even chef standard (39%). While 63% stick to the basics when cooking as they assume that’s what their guests want, 66% try – and fail – to cook something other than traditional foods. For half barbecues have become healthier in the last decade, and 44% think they are more suitable for all dietary requirements. When hosting a barbie, hot dogs and chicken are the go-to, as well as burgers, potato salad and steak making the cut. Meanwhile, bread rolls (53%) and brioche (37%) are among the most popular breads to serve. When it comes to condiments, ketchup (51%), mayonnaise (49%) and aptly barbecue sauce (47%) are the most popular for going alongside the likes of burgers and hot dogs. GOD TIER: Burgers Chicken wings Hot dogs Chicken e.g. breasts, legs, thighs etc Steak Ribs Burger cheese Potato salad Corn on the cob Beef brisket GOOD TIER: Pasta salad      Pork chops         Kebabs/skewers      Lobster Chicken souvlaki White fish e.g. seabass, halibut Grilled vegetables Pulled pork Salmon      Avocado MEH TIER: Sweet potatoes   Potato rolls    Crisps Grilled mushroom         Lamb chops    Onions Banana         Bacon Pineapple Tuna steak NAH TIER: Coleslaw Lamb doner Bread rolls Pitta/flat bread Chorizo Egg plant Grilled pear Cauliflower ‘steak’ Halloumi Cous-cous

The average American over 55 has just four friends they can count on, according to new research. A new survey found that of 2,000 Americans aged 55 and older, a fifth feel lonely more than half the week (19%). Three in four admit that their social circle has shrunk as they’ve gotten older (77%), with nearly half of respondents (48%) sharing that they’ve stopped being friends with at least three people in the last two years alone. However, the survey conducted by OnePoll for Life Time found that 83% feel it’s never too late in life to create fulfilling relationships. In their elder years, people want to focus on spending their time with friends and family (52%), traveling (40%) and improving their overall health (39%). It’s no surprise, then, that 70% said they’re interested in making new friends, citing that it’s important to find someone who likes the same things (55%), who they can have a great conversation with (50%), who has had similar life experiences (49%) and who wants to remain active together (40%). More than half of respondents said they wish there was a community of people their age to spend time with near them (53%), and 64% claim they would be more physically active if they had someone to do it with – in fact, 46% shared that they’ve made a new friend while being active. While six in 10 are already trying to be more active at this age than ever before (62%), 37% admit it can get lonely by themselves. Sixty percent of Americans aged 55 and older said they’d try out a new activity if they had someone to do it with, hoping to make a friend through walking or hiking (48%), swimming (32%) or strength and conditioning classes (31%). “It may seem intimidating to try something new, like pickleball, yoga or dance classes” said Renee Main, senior vice president of healthy aging at Life Time. “But actually it’s a great way to make new friends – while improving your health and overall well-being – especially when you’re supported by a coach who’s been trained to assist older adults.” Similarly, 63% admit that they’ve put off certain aspects of taking care of their health like exercising regularly (54%), eating well (37%) and drinking enough water (37%). And 86% of respondents agree that if you want to make the most of your “golden years,” it’s important to be as healthy and active as you can. Most respondents agreed that one of their goals at this age is to live each of their days to the fullest (79%), and two in three want to live a healthier life to play with their grandchildren instead of just watching them play. Sixty-five percent also recognize that their health has had a significant impact on the activities and lifestyle they enjoy – but there’s still hope according to the 83% of respondents who said it’s never too late to get healthy. In fact, 73% said they’re happier when they’re active and a similar percentage plan on investing more time in their health to help them live a fulfilling life (74%). “Whether you’re nine years old or 90, people tend to be happier and healthier when they regularly participate in activities with friends,” said Main. “If you want to experience a long and joyful life, then get out there, make new friends, and have fun trying new things together.”

Forget going off the grid — half of millennials stay more connected with friends and family while traveling than when they’re home. That’s according to a recent survey of 3,000 U.S. adults, divided evenly among Generation Z (18–25), millennials (26–41), Generation X (42–57) and baby boomers (58–76). Compared to 50% of millennials, only 37% of Gen X respondents said they’re more connected with loved ones during their travels than in their day-to-day lives. However, when the unexpected occurs on the road, nearly half (48%) of Gen Zers call an immediate family member. People’s top three preferred methods of communication while traveling are text messaging (47%), calling (39%), and video calls (32%). While Gen Z was found to favor texting (54%), millennials opted for chat apps such as WhatsApp and Viber (41%), and Gen X preferred phone calls (41%). Regardless of age, 60% would be completely lost if their phone gets lost or stolen when traveling. Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of AT&T, the survey also found more than a third (36%) of those who use social media don’t feel like they’ve had a real vacation unless they’ve posted about it. Some are ramping up their travels, with 37% traveling more now than they were pre-pandemic. Of those who are taking more trips, 44% revealed they have more free time and 44% shared the lifting of pandemic-related travel restrictions as a contributing factor that helped drive their decision to travel more. In fact, people’s summer travel must-haves included a smartphone or tablet (44%), more so than sanitizer (37%), face masks (36%) and at-home COVID tests (27%). A third of people made plans to travel across North America (32%) this summer, and almost a quarter (24%) planned a trip to Europe. Other destinations included the Caribbean or Bahamas (18%) and Central America (16%). “People want an international plan that not only connects them back home, but is simple to use and doesn’t break the bank,” said Jeni Bell, senior vice president of wireless product marketing, AT&T. “With 37% of people traveling now more than they were pre-pandemic, being able to upload photos on social or make a video call back home is more important than ever.” The most popular apps people depend on when traveling included map apps (37%), Google Translate (28%), airline apps (27%), and booking apps (26%). Gen Z was more likely than Gen X to summon Google Translate when on the road (37% vs. 29%). As for map apps, 42% of Gen Z and Gen X respondents preferred these, with only 28% of boomers relying on them to chart their course. For 35%, too many pandemic-related regulations would be deal-breakers for traveling abroad, while 29% cited a lack of options for flights or hotels. More than a quarter (25%) also said they wouldn’t consider international travel without access to mobile connectivity. More than half (70%) agreed that unlimited talk, text and high-speed data were important when traveling internationally. Forty percent prefer to have a data plan and about a third (32%) rely on free Wi-Fi. INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL DEAL-BREAKERS Too many pandemic-related regulations - 35% Not enough options for flights and/or hotels - 29% Lack of public transportation at the destination - 26% Unpredictable weather at the destination - 26% Not having access to mobile connectivity - 25% Multiple layovers - 25% Having to obtain a visa - 24%

If you enjoy a minty mojito (72%) or tart margarita (63%) on the beach, you also most likely have the best sex life, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 adults who drink alcohol looked at what their favorite beach cocktail said about them, finding that the most-loved drinks were beer (17%), margaritas (16%) and wine (16%). Results showed that those who prefer a mojito also have the most success when it comes to dating (88%) and are happiest with their lives (85%). But they’re not the only ones having fun – bloody mary drinkers are the most adventurous (80%) and are likeliest to say “yes” to everything (73%). And although those who like an ice cold beer are the most extroverted of the bunch (33%) – with margarita-enjoyers being their introverted counterparts (50%) – respondents who prefer sangria are the most likely to have at least five friends. Daiquiris are written in the stars for Libra respondents (48%), while Aries love a good margarita (23%) and Cancers opt for a fruity sangria (20%). Wine drinkers perhaps have the most diverse music taste, preferring hip hop (37%) and jazz (30%) while those who like beer jam out to rock (41%) and pop music (34%). Interestingly, respondents who like a fruity sex on the beach are also the most likely to suggest watching a horror movie (41%), compared to sangria drinkers who live for intense drama flicks (41%). Conducted by OnePoll for CheapCaribbean, the survey found that no matter the drink, three in four respondents said they’re at their most relaxed when enjoying a drink at the beach (76%), with a quarter sharing the perfect time for a drink is after going for a plunge. Those who favor a bloody mary are the most likely to catch some waves (38%) while respondents who go for a tropical sex on the beach prefer to go for a hike (32%), and daiquri drinkers enjoy scouring the beach for seashells (64%). “Whether one prefers a getaway to St. Martin, Aruba, Cancun, or Punta Cana, there’s an abundance of beautiful, tropical destinations to visit and find their happy place,” stated Dana Studebaker, vice president of marketing of consumer brands at Apple Leisure Group. Seven in 10 respondents said the summertime makes them feel more alive than any other season (71%), and a similar percentage wish they could enjoy the feeling of being at the beach all year round (70%). This may be why 40% are not ready for summer to end, and why two-thirds of Americans are thinking of visiting somewhere tropical/beachlike when the weather where they live is poor (67%). Where are they off to? When it comes to tropical beaches, respondents would be most interested in visiting Eagle Beach, Aruba (36%) or Montego Bay, Jamaica (24%). BEST ALCOHOLIC DRINKS TO ENJOY AT THE BEACH Beer - 17% Margarita - 16% Wine - 16% Daiquiri - 11% Bloody mary - 9% BEST FLAVORED DRINKS FOR THE BEACH Pineapple - 43% Strawberry - 41% Coconut - 35% Watermelon - 31% Lemon/lime - 26%

Approximately eight in 10 Americans agree society puts too much value on appearing youthful, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 adults 25+ examined perspectives around aging and found that most agree that in today’s world, there’s a negative bias around aging or the perception of being old (77%) – so much so that six in 10 Americans even avoid sharing their age in fear of being “judged” (61%). And social media certainly doesn’t help, with 77% sharing that social media filters send the wrong message about physical appearances. To make some positive changes, people would opt for terms that send a more positive view of aging than the term “anti-aging” such as “healthy aging” (54%) or “aging well” (47%). Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Great Lakes Wellness Collagen, the survey found that many respondents wish they didn’t feel pressure to combat the aging process, with three in four (75%) saying that they want to spend less time fighting aging and more time doing things they love. The same percentage (75%) also agree that age is not something to fight or fear, but rather an opportunity to live a more fulfilling and emotionally and physically healthy life. But most have actually seen areas of their lives improve with age (71%), such as confidence (49%), their sense of self (45%) and their relationships with family members (44%). In fact, most people who have outgrown their 20s say that they feel more fulfilled (69%) and satisfied (71%) with their lives today. “Our mission is to help lead a new, positive conversation around aging and free consumers from the idea that they need to fight this process,” said Jim Burkett, president of Great Lakes Wellness. “While ‘anti-aging’ has become the norm for quite some time, we’re starting to see a shift among Americans who realize aging is living. We want to help people spend less time worrying about a number, and instead confidently welcome their age, whatever it is, and enjoy what life is really about.” Many are still concerned about getting older, fearing not having enough energy (39%) or changes in their appearance (38%) – so much so that half of those surveyed said they put a lot of time into fighting the appearance of aging. Two-thirds of respondents even feel younger than they are, feeling nearly a decade younger on average. Those surveyed shared that the top benefits of aging are having more life experience (37%), gaining wisdom (37%) and being more confident (35%). Seventy-four percent also said they learn something new about themselves or the world around them every year. But what is the secret to aging well? Eighty percent will tell you that a better attitude leads to more graceful aging. And while 74% like it when people think they’re younger than they really are, seven in 10 said they’re embracing their age, with a similar percentage sharing that getting older is not as bad as they thought it would be (69%). And many are making the effort to live healthier lifestyles after seeing how their parents have aged (73%) and being affected by changes in their own health status (44%). To get there, respondents shared that they plan on eating well (43%), staying positive (42%) and taking vitamins/supplements (36%). “This new research is showing that Americans are focused on wellness as they age, including mental and physical support,” said Burkett. “Building healthy habits whether you’re in your 30s or 80s is critical to aging gracefully and feeling your best in each decade.”

“Grill master” is the most coveted job to have at a tailgating event, according to new research. A poll of 5,000 Americans — with 100 people in each of the 50 states — revealed that 29% believe manning the grill to be the best job while tailgating, while 25% opt for “side dish taster” or “game hype man” (23%). Other tailgate duties include cup refiller (18%) and food server (18%). In fact, 34% of respondents agree that it’s better to have one designated person man the grill, rather than rotating between people (30%). It’s no surprise that portable grills are the most popular cooking method for tailgating (67%). In fact, those on the East Coast, like Pennsylvania (76%) and Virginia (74%), are most likely to choose this method. Almost half (49%) of respondents prefer traditional outdoor grills, especially those in the Southeast, like Alabama (62%) and Mississippi (62%). The third most popular cooking method is a crock pot (38%), which was found to be exceedingly popular in South Dakota (56%) but very unpopular in Hawaii (19%). Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Hormel Foods, the survey explored how tailgaters use food and friends to create the most fun event possible. The average respondent attends two tailgates per year, with the optimal group size being 11 people on average. Tailgaters typically arrive about two hours before the game. Respondents also cited their friends (56%) and themselves (42%) as the most likely people to arrive first. About one-quarter (24%) said their sibling is likely to arrive first, but grandma will likely be the last to arrive, as only 3% believe she would be first. The vast majority of respondents (84%) believe that everyone attending a tailgate should bring at least one item. This unspoken rule is highly respected as almost half (46%) of respondents agree that if someone brings nothing, they are less likely to be invited to the next tailgate. Almost two-thirds (63%) of respondents are even likely to bring their favorite dish regardless of if others enjoy it. Overall, the perfect tailgate has five different dishes.

Kids these days know “Rolling in the Deep,” but not The Rolling Stones. A recent survey of 2,000 parents with kids ages 3–12 found 6–12-year-olds were more likely to identify the famous Adele hit than the iconic rock and roll band (41% vs. 28%). But how much do parents know about kids’ pop culture? While two in five were familiar with the movies “Frozen” (43%) and “Moana” (42%) as well as the viral phenomenon “Baby Shark” (40%), only 29% knew of the TV series “Steven Universe.” Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Kahoot!, the survey not only shows that parents and their kids have a lot to learn about each other's interests, but that doing so could be an effective way to bring families closer together. Results found kids tend to get excited when their parents take an interest in or show knowledge about something they like, according to 63% of adults. And 61% of parents are eager to learn more about their kids’ hobbies or interests. Six in 10 (63%) are teaching their kids to appreciate the same hobbies they enjoyed when they were their age. Among those are playing a sport (59%), video games (58%), card games (56%) and trivia (54%). Parents expect their kids will enjoy these pastimes by 10 years old. Fifty-seven percent of music-loving parents are teaching their kids to appreciate the same tunes they enjoyed in their youth. Among their playlist picks? Celine Dion (42%), followed by Whitney Houston (39%), Madonna (38%) and the Backstreet Boys (34%). Curating a multigenerational playlist may take some effort, though, as nearly half (47%) of parents can’t stand their kids’ favorite music. That may be why parents struggled to recognize the band “Fifth Harmony,” with just 24% identifying an image of the girl group that broke the record for most Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards in 2018. Among parents who believe their kids can appreciate their pastimes, the overwhelming majority (73%) consider it a milestone in their young ones’ growth. “It can be challenging to find things to enjoy for the entire family, especially for parents with kids of various ages, who often have different interests and hobbies,” said Sean D’Arcy, VP of Kahoot! at Home and School. “Game-based learning is a great way for parents and kids to learn something new together while spending quality time as a family.” Eight in 10 (82%) parents watch popular game shows with their kids, including “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?” (39%) and “Wheel of Fortune” (37%). And 71% of those parents play along to their favorite shows with their kids. While kids and parents may have different interests and knowledge, friendly competition is one thing they seem to agree on. Many parents are using this to spend quality time with their kids, as well as to support their learning at home. Eighty-three percent of parents use trivia to get their kids excited about more serious topics, such as historic events that happened when they were young (41%), music (39%), and nature and animals (39%). According to 79% of kids, playing history, math or grammar games inspires them to ask more questions about these topics. “Our results show quality family screen time could play a key role in helping kids make better choices with content and media on their own, as 62% of parents observed their kids being inspired to consume better content,” D’Arcy added. “In addition, 55% said their kids are creating content themselves as a result. Actively engaging with kids, such as by playing games together, can help them develop better screen time habits.” GAME SHOWS PARENTS WATCH TOGETHER WITH THEIR KIDS “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?” - 39% “Wheel of Fortune” - 37% “Family Feud” - 34% “Deal or No Deal” - 34% “Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?” - 33% “The Price is Right” - 33% “Jeopardy!” - 29% MUSIC PARENTS ARE SHARING WITH THEIR KIDS The Beatles George Strait Michael Jackson Sir Mix-a-Lot Mötley Crüe Gospel songs Korn Judas Priest Foo Fighters Creedence Clearwater Revival

Two-thirds of Americans say they live by a carpe diem mindset, new research suggests. A poll of 2,000 Americans aged 21+ revealed that 65% have adopted a “seize the day” attitude. In fact, 66% believe that they are living more in the moment today and 74% are focusing more on the future, both compared to pre-pandemic. And that’s not all that the pandemic has changed — 62% say they “treat themselves” more now than they did prior. Respondents are indulging themselves by enjoying “me” time (25%), their favorite beverage (21%) and shopping online (21%). A survey conducted by OnePoll on behalf of JaM Cellars, the makers of Butter Chardonnay, also revealed that the average respondent treats themselves about six times per month. Respondents were divided when it came to identifying what is a “treat”. Almost one-third (32%) define a treat as something enjoyable, 27% by its quality and 24% consider the fun factor. While most respondents are likely to treat themselves for a special occasion (40%), 39% are likely to do so on any given weekend. However, two-thirds (66%) are more likely to treat themselves during the week than in previous years. And 68% say treating themselves during the week feels more special. The average respondent says a treat usually runs them about $83. But 74% agree that a higher price tag doesn’t always mean it’s a better treat. “It’s great to see that more Americans than ever are choosing to live their best lives every day. We’ve realized we don’t have to wait for special occasions, birthday gatherings, or even the weekend to enjoy life or a glass of your favorite wine,” said Michele Truchard, Co-founder of JaM Cellars, the makers of Butter Chardonnay. “Importantly, indulgences that bring you joy, shouldn’t have to break the bank. Great quality, easy-to-love, affordable wines can make any day more delicious.” Respondents were most likely to treat themselves to food (43%) and clothing (35%). Others seek out experiences such as vacations or live events and concerts (31%). But about a quarter (26%) won’t deny themselves their favorite bottle of wine. So, it’s no surprise that 62% of respondents find themselves enjoying more wine now than they were three years ago. In fact, almost three-quarters (74%) are even more likely to pop the cork on a weekday than they were pre-pandemic. And the best occasion to open that favorite bottle of wine varies between respondents. One-third (33%) believe the best time is with family and friends, but 27% said on any weekend and 23% echoed the same sentiment with any weeknight. Plus, almost a quarter (24%) also agreed their favorite moment to enjoy wine is “me” time, which is a shift from pre-pandemic. In fact, 72% responded they open a bottle of wine more on their own now compared to three years ago. And the top three favorite types of wine are red (58%), white (51%) and sparkling (45%). Regardless, 70% of respondents prefer to indulge now, rather than saving it for later. No matter the time or frequency, 72% find treating themselves to be an instant mood booster. “I think treating yourself has become an important part of self-care since the pandemic lockdowns. A lot of people have leveled up how they eat and drink and become more selective how they spend their time and money. As a wine lover, opening my favorite Butter Chardonnay for time with friends, or simply for some me-time is a great way to make the moment feel special,” continued Michele, the “M” in JaM Cellars. “Life’s simple pleasures are a wonderful way to make the most of life and wine o’clock, and America seems to agree. Cheers to that!” TOP THINGS PEOPLE TREAT THEMSELVES TO Food - 43% Clothing - 35% Experiences (concerts, vacations, etc.) - 31% Favorite bottle of wine – 26% Shoes - 25% Décor - 22% Makeup - 21% Sunglasses - 20% BEST TIMES TO OPEN A BOTTLE OF WINE With friends and family - 33% During any weekend - 27% At a party - 25% On a summer evening - 25% Alone or “me” time - 24% On any weeknight - 23% On the beach - 23% During a cold winter night - 20%

Four in five Americans say crumbs in the bed lead to the crumbiest night's sleep, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 adults delved into disruptors most impacting sleep and found that eating in bed may be a culprit. Bedtime can trigger cravings for many of us, as nearly half (48%) admit they regularly eat before bed, and these respondents are likely to crave sweets (50%) such as cookies (42%) or salty snacks (32%) like chips (49%) or popcorn (45%). Additionally, 35% of respondents admit to eating in bed. That said, people feel so strongly against eating and risking crumbs in their bed that a third of respondents said it’s a dealbreaker if their partner were to do so. Having a partner that eats in bed is particularly offensive to millennials (38%) who said they would consider ending the relationship over it. Ironically, they are also the generation that reports being most inclined to snack in bed (40%). Conducted by OnePoll for Serta Simmons Bedding, the survey also looked into the quality of sleep that people are getting and found that a fifth of respondents say it’s been over a month since they’ve gotten a night of perfect sleep (21%), with the average person waking up three times per night. For millennials, waking up at least three times per night is the norm, and of all the generations, baby boomers are the most likely to report having missed out on a perfect night’s sleep in over a month (30%). Being too hot while sleeping can be another disruption. Most respondents wake up more often at night when they feel hot (76%), leading them to turn on the AC or a fan (49%), sleep without the covers (37%) or change their clothes to cool down (36%). Surprisingly, people in the northeast are more likely to wake up often when they feel hot (89%), compared to just 61% of southerners in warmer climates. “Studies have shown that sleeping hot can impede the body’s ability to rest and recover,” said JD Velilla, Serta Simmons Bedding’s Head of Sleep Experience. “Interrupted sleep may lead to irritability, increased stress and decreased creativity, among other things. If you tend to sleep hot, light clothing, breathable linens or a mattress with cooling technology can help.” Adding to sleep restlessness, 65% percent said they toss and turn at night because they can’t find a comfortable sleeping position and a similar percentage switch between cocooning themselves in their blanket and kicking it away when trying to get comfortable (64%). In terms of who has the most restless sleep, Gen Z (18-25) (74%) and the silent generation (77-94) (73%) are most likely to toss and turn at night because they can’t find a comfortable sleep position. In other sleep disruptors, for pet owners, the average person reported being awoken by their furry family members twice a week when their pet barks/meows or whimpers (36%), they need to go outside (31%) or when they take up too much space in the bed (30%). Parents also find themselves having trouble sleeping when their child wakes them up, which happens on average twice a week – usually when they need to use the bathroom (34%) or when they have nightmares (31%). And, after waking up, 49% of parents almost always give in and let their kids crawl into bed with them. But rest assured, better sleep may be just around the corner for parents as kids return to school. Nearly half of parents said they get more sleep when their kids return to school (49%), and a similar percentage said the quality of their sleep is better during this time, too (50%). And, simple routines like making the bed can also contribute to a better night’s rest. Seventy-four percent of people said they sleep better crawling into a neatly made bed at night. “While there are many sleep disruptors keeping us awake, there are also some ways to ensure you’re getting your nightly shut eye,” added Velilla. “Some of the top tips I recommend include sticking to a sleep schedule and routine, understanding, and proactively addressing, your sleep disruptors, as well as making your bedroom a recovery room designed to maximize sleep.”

A third of pet parents have more photos of their furry friends on their phones than of their kids or partner (35%), according to new research. A survey of 2,000 dog and cat owners found that just 27% of respondents said they have the most photos of their kids, and only 16% said they had the most photos of their partner. On average, respondents take over 400 pictures of their pets every year. The survey shed light on how much people love their pets, with nearly a third of pet owners claiming they treat their pet like royalty. A quarter of respondents have shown their pet love by throwing a party just for them, and the same percentage allow their pet to smooch them on the mouth. Further, one in six have even gotten a tattoo of their furry friend to keep them near. Half of pet parents feel incomplete when they’re not near their pet (52%) – three-quarters of respondents have even taken their pet on vacation (79%). Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of the Maytag brand, the survey also found that pets stick by their parents’ side, including while they’re cooking (38%), getting ready for bed (37%) or working out (35%) Pet owners agree that they’re so close to their pet that they keep their reaction in mind when making changes in their own life — decisions like moving (27%), purchasing furniture (33%) or deciding if they should buy a home with a yard (32%). Nearly half of the respondents (45%) also said that their pet sleeps in the bed with them. “We know how much people love their pets,” said Lauren Bigger, Maytag senior brand manager and proud pet parent. “We throw them parties, bring them on vacations and treat them as part of the family. While we love having them by our side, we’re often left covered in hair and spending time and energy cleaning it up.” Most pet owners agree that although they love having their pet around, their shedding hair becomes a problem (59%). Fifty-seven percent of pet owners are spending more time and energy cleaning up pet hair than they want to, averaging about four hours a week. A whopping 85% of pet parents sweep or vacuum their floors or furniture at least twice a week because of their pet’s hair. Forty-one percent of respondents keep their pet’s hair top of mind when it comes to their clothes, with 57% of those with shedding pets admitting they always have to remove pet hair from their clothes before they leave home. In fact, pet parents have gotten used to keeping a lint roller in their car (57%) or purse/bag (55%) to get rid of any stray hairs on the go. And nearly a quarter of respondents said they wash their bedding at least once a week due to pet hair (23%). Furthermore, 53% said their current laundry routine requires multiple steps due to pet hair with nearly half taking pet beds, clothes, and blankets to a laundromat to avoid using their machines at home (47%). “Pet owners put in extra work when it comes to laundry day, adding time and steps to remove pet hair,” said Bigger. “With continuous innovation in the cleaning space, pet parents now have laundry solutions for their home to help them conquer pet hair like a pro.”

Is summer travel worth the pain? More than a third (39%) of Americans agree that the aches and pains associated with traveling have kept them from traveling longer distances, according to a new study. The poll of 2,005 adults found that 67% of Americans said they desperately need to move around and stretch after they arrive at their destination and more than a third (35%) of respondents said they experienced more soreness during the process of travel than during their actual vacation. After an average of five hours of travel, 78% of respondents said they start to feel sore.

Forget staying at home – nearly four in five parents would rather catch up with their family while doing a physical activity together (78%), according to new research. A survey of 2,000 parents of kids 0-18 found that most parents said they have the most fun when they get to spend time with their kids (83%) and a whopping 89% like to be active with their kids by playing sports or spending time outside. Currently, parents’ favorite activities to do with their kids are playing basketball (36%), dance (34%) and swim lessons (32%). Conducted by OnePoll in partnership with Life Time, the survey found that four in five parents want to inspire their kid(s) to try more physical activities throughout their lives (80%). While the average respondent thinks that it’s best to introduce kids to more physical activities around seven years old, a third of parents think it’s important to do so earlier. Spending more time outside may also be the answer for the 76% of parents who are looking for new ways to connect with their kids. Half of parents agreed it’s difficult for their kids to enjoy an activity without getting bored (51%), but 73% said their kid is fearless when presented with the opportunity to try something new. And they won’t have to do it alone, since 79% of parents are willing to try a new activity alongside their kids. “Pickleball, swimming, group exercise classes – the list of healthy activities parents can enjoy with their children is virtually limitless,” said Alicia Kockler, senior vice president of kids and aquatics for Life Time. “Teaching our kids about the benefits of an active lifestyle is so important, and exploring new ways to play together creates memories that will last a lifetime.” Most parents even said seeing their kids being active inspires them to get active (78%). A fifth of parents would rate the physical health of their kids as “average,” “poor” or “very poor” (22%), which may be why nearly two-thirds of respondents wish their kids were more active than they already are (64%). On average, parents estimate that their kids spend less than an hour a day being active, with nearly half sharing their kids are less active than this. Thirty percent shared that their kids are more active during the summer than during the school year. However, 38% said their kids are just as active when school starts up and seven in 10 said the beginning of the school year is a good time to make healthy lifestyle changes (71%). “The start of a new school year is a great time to develop new family routines,” says Kockler. “We suggest designating one or two nights a week when the whole family participates in a fun activity together – like basketball or a family swim at an indoor pool. Families that spend more active time together, and less time staring at screens, tend to be happier and much healthier.”

Half of Americans consider themselves “smart drinkers” (52%), according to new research. A survey of 2,000 people 21+ looked at what exactly makes a “smart drinker,” and found that 65% of those who drink alcohol claim they’ve mastered knowing what and how much to drink. The survey finds that a smart drinker” paces himself/ herself (49%) at about two of those drinks per hour, and “smart drinkers” choose low-volume alcoholic beverages (27%). Three in five actually prefer drinks with a lower alcohol percentage because it helps them drink at a better pace (61%). According to the survey, “smart drinking” also entails eating a meal before drinking (53%) and being sure not to mix different types of alcohol (45%). Conducted by OnePoll in partnership with Casa Azul Tequila Soda, results found that 45% of respondents are likely to take the guesswork out by drinking premixed canned alcoholic beverages. And while 42% of respondents shared that knowing the alcohol content of their beverage helps ensure an optimal drinking experience, 41% don’t often know what percentage of alcohol their drinks contain. In addition, 47% of alcohol-consumers claim they can tell the difference when alcoholic drinks are made with real spirits and ingredients, with two in three claiming they can also feel the difference in their body the next day (67%). When it comes to canned alcoholic beverages, it can be easy to forget about keeping an eye out for those ingredients since the mix-work is already done. Nearly a third of those who consume canned options make a point of not having one without knowing if it contains real spirits (29%), leading 41% to opt out of drinking entirely if their drink doesn’t. “The market is filled with low calorie, low ABV hard seltzers that people like because you can drink them anytime and anywhere-- but most are made with malt liquor, not real spirits,” said Lance Collins, founder and chairman of Casa Azul. “At the other end of the spectrum are canned cocktails made with real spirits, but they’re more than twice the alcohol and three times the carbs and sugar. Consumers want options that won’t lead to them feeling bad the next day, which is why canned alcoholic beverages made with real spirits and quality ingredients are a delicious, convenient option that they can feel good about.” This may be why more than a fifth of respondents recommend staying away from drinks high in sugar/congeners to avoid hangovers (23%). To make sure they feel less of the effects afterward, alcohol-consumers recommend paying close attention to exactly what ingredients are in those drinks (29%) and sipping on water in between drinks (44%). From coordinating a safe ride home (52%) to knowing how and why alcohol affects your body (47%) and what ingredients are in your drink (27%), there are plenty of ways to be a “smart drinker.” “It’s clear from the data that consumer demand is shifting and when people choose to drink alcohol, they want options that have simple but quality ingredients,” said Collins. “However, with so many choices on shelves and misleading marketing, many shoppers don’t realize that they aren’t even drinking alcohol with real spirits. This is especially true in the canned tequila space, with products like canned margaritas or ranch waters, because they don’t even have actual tequila in them. When you’re sharing something with friends, you want something real.”

The tell-tale signs someone might be lying is avoiding eye contact and nervously talking — but even the most experienced “poker-face” has a giveaway “tell”, according to a new survey. The poll of 2,000 US adults revealed an overwhelming majority consider themselves a cut above the rest when it comes to being able to spot a liar. Nearly a quarter (24%) think they have an excellent poker face, with a further 37% thinking they’re good at pulling the wool over the eyes of others. Less than one in 20 (3%) felt they had a terrible poker face. When it came to their own “tells” — signs where someone is bluffing — respondents claimed fiddling with chips, sitting up in the chair when they have a good hand and trembling hands are the key signs to look out for. Commissioned by Online Betting Guide and conducted by OnePoll, the study revealed 53% of Americans believe they’re good at spotting when others were lying to them, while just 8% thought they were poor at it. The research also revealed when people think it’s a good time to employ their bluffing skills — playing poker (32%), when someone asks if you like what they’re wearing and you don’t (30%) and when someone makes you a horrible meal (27%) are the best scenarios. On average, Americans deploy their poker face four times a day and lie 4.3 times a day. Respondents also feel they are lied to 5.8 times per day. "Body language is not a precise science and when you’re looking for signs of lying there is no such thing as a perfect body language ‘tell’, only clues and hints,” said Judi James, body language expert and author of Poker Face. "Poker players, in particular, can use micro-gestures when they lie or bluff but a good liar could use this to their benefit, acting the ‘tell’ to suit themselves and confuse their opponents. "Imagine you’ve spotted an opponent’s ‘tell’ when you’re playing poker. You’ve noticed that when they are bluffing their eyes dart quickly from side to side. This ‘tell’ is only useful to you if they’re not aware of it themselves though. If they know their own trait then they can use it to fool you too. Are they bluffing or is this a double-bluff?" Interestingly, more than two in five (42%) think of themselves as someone who wears their heart on their sleeve and finds it difficult to hide their emotions. Despite lying more and feeling they are lied to more, a huge 54% of people said honesty was very important to them. “Body language doesn’t always tell us the full picture of what is going on, but it can give us a good idea,” said an Online Betting Guide spokesperson. “Like most things, the more you know someone, the more you’re able to tell if they are a good or bad liar. It’s also fascinating to see just how important we value telling the truth – but admit to telling little white lies every day.” JUDI JAMES’ TELL-TALE SIGNS OF A BLUFFER EYE CONCEALMENTS - Our eyes do feel like the windows to the soul and it can be challenging to keep the eye expression on-message when we’re telling a lie, especially as the human eye has a vast range of subtle but still powerful expressions. EYE DIRECTION/EYE DART - If you can pick up on a person’s normal eye direction when they are being honest you might pick up on the clue that they might be lying if their eyes suddenly swing in the opposite direction for one of their answers. THE MICRO-SMIRK - Some people enjoy performing a lie and will feel an inner desire to boast about how clever they are being to be fooling people. This can emerge in a subtle smirk, where one side of the mouth rises slightly. POKER FACE - This attempt to say nothing in case it might incriminate can be a whole-body performance but primarily the facial expression will be bland and immobile and the body stops moving as they speak. EYEBROW SHRUGS - When someone lies there can be an attempt at bravado which can emerge in dismissive eyebrow shrug. ASYMETRIC FACIAL EXPRESSIONS - When we lie the muscles tend to pull the features in lots of different ways, leading to a lop-sided smile or puckered smile with the mouth pulled down at the corners. One brow might raise while the other is frowning or one side of the mouth might be pulled down while the other is hiked up. THE TONGUE-POKE - This is a gesture of disgust and rejection linked to rejecting food as a small baby. It can signal someone doesn’t like what is going on even when they’re pretending to be happy and relaxed. HAND TO FACE GESTURES/THE NOSE TOUCH - Like the eye shielding rituals, a desire to conceal the face can lead to hands touching the face or nose; rubbing the face constantly as though tired in a bid to hide the expression of guilt. SELF-COMFORT RITUALS - Fiddling with an earring or ear lobe; touching their own hair; playing with their clothing or tapping or fiddling with their fingers can all signal a desire to self-calm under pressure. METRONOMIC GESTURES – The leg-swing, foot tap, finger-drumming etc.