I love dogs. I especially love my dogs. But sometimes, being a pet parent can be challenging. I know that everyone experiences those times when they ask themselves “What did I do?” When clients tell me that they’re overwhelmed, feeling guilty or think they’ve made a mistake, I try and remind them of these things.

There is no one judging you. Well, there shouldn’t be anyone judging you. When your dog barks at other dogs when you’re on a walk, don’t be embarrassed. If that cranky woman up the street is making faces at you when you walk by, just smile and keep on walking. Your dog is not a reflection of your ability to parent a dog, nor is it indicative of your dog’s personality. The woman, on the other hand, is a human who should know better than to make judgments before she walks a mile in your shoes.
Humans have an amazing capacity to deal with things. Just because one day you came home to a destroyed sofa doesn’t mean that tomorrow will be as bad. Try and keep things in perspective. That teething will finish, your dog will eventually know how to fit into your lifestyle, and there are people out there that can help you.
In fact, it takes a village to raise a dog. Ask for help. There are trainers, daycares, dog walkers, play groups, play dates, and play areas such as Sniff Spot that can get you and your dog what you both need. You don’t need to go it alone.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed. You have so much going on in your life and then there’s this pup that needs so much of your time and energy. It’s not a bad thing that your dog needs to learn to self-soothe. You need to be able to take a shower or do laundry without him or her under your feet. If you feel guilty about something, such as teaching your dog crate training, ask an expert if there is a reason that you should (there is), or if there are other solutions (there are). These are questions that most of us have had and have arrived at different answers.

And remember, if you need help, just reach out.