Has anyone struggled with depression while having a new dog?

[BOBS DAD]

I am so sorry to hear of your struggles. I hope that counseling will help you. If it is any comfort, please be assured that most people struggle with some form of depression in their lifetime. Yours is common and counseling will definitely help - but don't expect immediate results. Open up to your counselor... talk about everything that bothers you, makes you sad. The worse - the better, and you'll begin to see a brighter future.

I know that many cat people can find dogs difficult to train initially and sometimes impossible. That is because cats and dogs are so different. Also dogs are sooo much more demanding of us! Cats are independant, clean and take to their litter boxes quickly. Dogs are almost "dumb" comparatively. But "happy dumb".

Maybe you can find someone, perhaps a relative, to foster your pup as you undergo treatment. They can help with the training (crate I recommend) and take off some of the load for you. A 2 year old at home is enough for now. That way you can still visit and take your time deciding if he needs to be rehomed.

Good luck in whatever you decide!!!

[ashleycat]

I still have him. He hasn't peed inside for a couple days. So I think something is working.

Also, in the morning when he hasn't eaten yet. I've been using those beggin strips for some training. He goes nuts for them and he is sooooooooo focused.

Like this morning. He is usually taking food away from my daughter. So I gave her the treat to give him.. And when he tried to take it from her I said AH AH. And he backed off. And then she gave it to him. And then after that he was holding off till she gave it to him.

Hopefully we can make it. I keep changing my mind lol. I don't know anyone that can foster him for now.

Since the rescue lady already put him on petfinder, can she edit it to say foster? I dunno. I hate when I can't make up my mind.