I got a dog a year ago and it still makes me anxious

[Mikisjourney]

I got my first dog over a year ago and I have felt an incredible amount of anxiety since getting it.
I thought these feeling would subside as I got used to having a dog around but they haven’t. The stress is there everyday when I have to leave for work and even at night I worry about the smallest things, like what if he cry’s at night.

I don’t know what to do as we have made the choice to get a dog and look after him for his life.
my partner didn’t want a dog either so all the responsibilities are on me so I feel a tremendous amount of guilt for being so anxious everyday about it.

thanks for reading

[CockneyIdiot]

Hello, have you thought about getting an IP Web Camera for the home so that way you can check in on your dog during the day?

[HappyHelper88]

Thankyou for sharing and welcome

Im so sorry your experiencing this I did have a similar experience
try and remember a lot of people leave there pets at home to go to work and if he has everything he needs he will be okay

A pet should bring unconditional love and happiness

I think you could benefit from talking to someone

If you would like to talk to someone, the Beyond Blue Support Service is available 24/7 by phone on 1300 22 4636 or on Webchat 1pm-12am AEST on our website: www.beyondblue.org.au/getsupport  One of our friendly counsellors will be able to talk through these feelings with you and can offer support, advice and referrals.

[Baljit]

Hi Mikisjourney,

Thank you, for sharing your feelings.

I think some of the feelings that you are experiencing are quite are normal. It reminds me of the parent and child relationship.

In my own case, my dog is an integral part of my family and I worry about him all the time, as I do with my own, but this is another level, it’s having a greater detail of enjoyable responsibilities.

Have you thought about speaking to your vet for some support and guidance. There are lot of therapies out there now to support both anxious owners and pets.

Finally, your dog would have told you by now, if he was upset/uncomfortable.

Baljit