DH and I both always wanted a dog. It didn't work out pre-DCs because of our jobs and then the DCs arrived. Whenever we saw a dog we'd sigh and say 'one day' without me really thinking about it. Now that they're the DCs are a bit older (just into school and nursery) and DC1 has fallen for dogs too, after just the tiniest extra push from DH, I said yes to getting one. I made the calls, arranged the visit and we now have a 6 month old pup (he came that age). He is gorgeous, gentle, fun, great with the children - everything we could hope for.
I just hate this though. Really hate it. I thought I had space in my life for a dog, but not only did I overestimate how much time and space I have, I underestimated how much he would require (not just the practical stuff but yet another person to think about all the time). I feel SO stupid saying this as I grew up with a dog, but I now realise how much of it I was shielded from, being a child. I just don't think I can do this. Or rather, I know I have to but realise I really don't want to. I am very ashamed of myself right now for feeling this way, when he has done nothing to deserve this and my family adore him.
While DH does do a fair bit, this is when he can. Ultimately DCs and now the dog are my responsibility. Plus job, plus house, plus our lives in general. I hadn't realised how overwhelmed I would feel with him here and I have started to think the unthinkable and wishing we could just rehome him (I know how appalling this is - I have always believed that a pet is a total responsibility). My family would NEVER forgive me and it would be an ultimately selfish act. I just can't look at him without feeling huge resentment and wanting to burst into tears. How can I make myself feel better about him?
Sorry for the long post. I think I'm starting to lose it.