I Updated:
My Story…
This is my story about how becoming a dog mom helped me build a healthy mindset.
I was at a point in my mental health journey where I was stuck in a place of intense grief. Both for my past and my future.
Every day felt like a battle against a thick haze that had wiped out my mind and spirit.
Despite being in therapy and taking medication, the darkness stayed.
I didn’t know what to do.
I couldn’t remember the last time I smiled.
One evening, I was browsing the internet and came across a picture of a puppy whose anxious eyes caught my attention.
The next day, I decided to call and inquire about him.
However, bringing him home was not an easy decision.
My husband was not happy with the idea, and it became a subject of conflict between us.
So when the day came to bring the pup home, I was filled with mixed feelings of excitement and anxiety.
BUT my soul knew that being a dog mom was my calling.
Even on my darkest days, when I could barely muster the strength to get out of bed, I knew I had structure and purpose in my life now.
Bringing my new fur baby home shifted my focus to the present moment.
My daily routine focused on caring for the little guy, taking him to the potty, feeding him, and playing with him.
Him and I, we would sit outside together in the stillness of the early morning and listen to the birds.
Slowly but surely, my spirit started to lift.
The unconditional love became a source of comfort and companionship.
Even on my darkest days, when I could barely muster the strength to get out of bed, I knew, I was a dog mom now and I had structure and purpose in my life.
I found myself picking up my phone to capture the moment of my precious.
The cuteness brought a smile to my face.
I became mindful of the small things.
My new fur baby snuggled by my side made me feel safe and less alone in my struggles.
Over time, the fog of depression began to lift. It was replaced by a renewed sense of hope and resilience.
Yoshi had been my most important support during the worst chapter of my life.
His love and companionship helped me heal in ways that no medication or therapy ever could.
And forever, I will be grateful for my faithful friend who helped me smile again.
For more ways to help lift your spirit read 26 Beautiful Breath Quotes to Nuture your Soul.
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Building a Healthy Mindset as a Dog Mom
Caring for a new puppy as a dog mom can be a transformative and healing experience.
The companionship and responsibilities of raising a fur baby can contribute to the healing process in several ways.
1. Unconditional Love and Trust
Building a bond with a new puppy can provide a sense of security and emotional support, helping to rebuild trust that past traumatic experiences may have damaged.
2. Creating a Safe Environment
Establishing a safe and nurturing environment for a new puppy helps create a safe space for oneself.
Ensuring the puppy’s well-being as a dog mom can create a heightened awareness of the need for personal safety and security.
3. Routine and Stability
Caring for a new puppy requires a routine for feeding, walks, playtime, and rest.
A routine can bring a sense of stability and structure to daily life.
4. Mindfulness and Living in the Present
Caring for a new puppy encourages a focus on the present.
Focusing on play time, walks, and daily interactions can encourage mindfulness.
5. Responsibility and Empowerment
Caring for another living being fosters a sense of purpose and empowerment.
This can contribute to a positive shift in self-perception as a dog mom.
6. Social Connection
Walking a new puppy, attending training classes, or visiting dog parks can foster social interactions with other dog owners.
These connections provide opportunities for building a supportive community, addressing potential feelings of isolation.
7. Emotional Regulation
Dogs are known for their ability to sense and respond to human emotions.
The calming effect of a furry companion can help individuals struggling with mental health.
8. Physical Activity and Well-Being
Regular exercise is a essential for caring for a new puppy.
Activities like walks and play benefit both the puppy’s and owner’s physical health and well-being.
Physical activity helps manage stress and promote mental health.
Final Thoughts
While a new puppy cannot replace professional therapeutic interventions for trauma, the companionship and responsibilities associated with being a dog mom can complement the healing process.
Calling all dog mom’s, please share with me below your thoughts.
