Signs Your Dog is DEPRESSED!?!
Is your dog truly happy? Like truthfully, do you seriously know that they are happy?
Often, dogs display subtle signs of discontentment that often go unnoticed. Remember, it's never too late to provide your dog with a richer and more fulfilling life.
During my childhood, I had a beloved dog named "Coco," a fluffy brown Tibetan Spaniel with an endearing underbite. As is common in many owner-dog relationships, my family and I were utterly smitten with her.
As the years passed, my family and I became engrossed in the demands of life. School, work, and social engagements became our everyday routine, just like anyone else. Along this journey, we encountered life's beauty and also witnessed its unpredictable mix of joy and sorrow.
In contrast, Coco's life followed the same daily routine for years. Quite literally every single day.
Have you ever found yourself comparing your life to your cherished pet? (Of course you have what kind of owner would you be if you haven't.)
Okay, imagine your dog's schedule. This was Coco’s…
- Wake up.
- Say hi to everyone.
- Walk around the house.
- Eat.
- Walk around the house.
- Say hi to everyone.
- Sleep.
When you realize that this makes up the entirety of a house dog's existence, it may not seem all that exciting, now, does it? Just picture yourself doing this day in and day out for years on end.
Every day, you're surrounded by the same environment, interacting with the same individuals. Moreover, you're served nearly identical meals at every sitting. Sure, there are occasional treats or snacks, but those moments of stimulation are few and far between.
Not to mention that they’re most likely used to the same treat after a while…
The point of this article isn’t to make you feel bad for not treating your dog like a king/ queen.
The whole point of this article is to spread awareness for owners to spend more time with your dog.
Going to take out the trash? Bring the dog.
Checking the mail? Bring the dog.
Going to grab coffee? Maybe consider taking the dog on an adventure.
GET THEM OUT OF THE HOUSE.
I say this because of my own experience.
As time passed, Coco ceased her morning greetings, her eating slowed down, and, most concerning of all, she began to hide. I'd search for her throughout the house upon returning home, only to find her tucked away in dark corners, sleeping. She was always sleeping and hiding. At that time in my life I was only 13-14 years old, and I knew something was wrong.
Moral of the story. Give your dog a life.
Don’t make them feel imprisoned in their own home. Prevent them from yearning for something more as they gaze out of the window.
Let them experience how wonderful life is.
True happy dogs go outside.
True happy dogs have a life outside of home.
If you were curious about Coco, here's the story. When I became aware of Coco's depression, I discussed it with my family. It's important to understand that not everyone will immediately grasp the situation. Some will take the initiative, while others may not. I began taking her to the yard whenever I had the chance and played fetch with her every single day, whether it was for just 5 minutes or a full 30. Her mood noticeably improved. We occasionally ventured out to the park or the beach (once or twice a month). Some might call it 'the bare minimum,' but the impact it had was truly remarkable.
She never sought refuge in the shadows again. Instead, she began greeting everyone in the morning. Her energy and playfulness returned, which was most important of all.
Also, I became her favorite. (one of the best feelings in the world)
Don’t make the same mistake I did. Love and care for your dog the right way.
Rest In Love Coco 2021