It can get better
- Kristi MacLeod
- Nov 3, 2023
- 2 min read
Getting a new puppy or dog often comes with a whole lot of daydreaming.
Your imagination runs wild as you think of all the adventures you'll go on with your new companion; Strolling through the farmer's market on weekends, trips to the off-leash dog beach, backyard BBQ cookouts with family and everyone's dogs running around and playing with each other, pet-friendly stores and restaurant patios, camping and care-free walks through the park as your canine companion walks politely next to you occasionally glancing up at you in the most loving way… You're going to do it all with your new best friend.
But sometimes life has other plans, and reality hits you like waves on a rocky shore.
Your dog doesn't like other dogs. Your dog doesn't like your friends or even your family members. Your dog growls and snaps when people get too close. Your dog flails at the end of their leash barking, snarling and frothing at the mouth at other dogs, vehicles, and joggers. Your dog's behaviour creates conflict between you and other people in the house. Your dog isn't allowed to join you when it visit friends or family. You can't have guests over.
This isn't the life you imagined. This isn't what you pictured when you fantasized about what it means to be a dog owner and it certainly isn't comparable to the family dog you grew up with, or your friend's dog that you know.
Maybe you went into it with rose coloured glasses on and didn't realize all of the complexities of life with a dog, but surely it's not supposed to be this hard?
The feelings joy and fulfillment are replaced with frustration, shame, guilt and embarrassment. You feel trapped - a prisoner, at times, to your dog's extreme emotions.
If you have ever felt like accepting your dog for who they currently are meant facing a great loss at the same time, it truly is… And that's okay.
It's okay to mourn the loss of the dog you had wanted; The dog you expected.
It's okay to mourn the loss of the adventures that you may never get to go on with your furry best friend.
It's okay to mourn the loss of the memories you may never get to create with them.
It's okay, and it's valid to sit with and experience the full spectrum of those feelings.
But when your curiosity piques and you're ready to explore the possibility of redefining your relationship with your dog and the kind of life you two can live together, I'm here to help you get started on your brand new journey!
☎️ 778-347-1884
🌐 www.idealcanine.ca
📨 idealcanine@outlook.com
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