would a dog help with my depression

[AnotherLoad]

last week my gp diagnosed me with depression and i think anxiety - although it maybe the meds side effects?

I am a SAHM with a 22mth old and 2 older DC's in school. I was wondering if getting a dog would help get me out more rather then curling up on the sofa and staring into space!

im not a holiday person and dont really like going out alot so i know i wont have to worry about it being left alone. when im over my local field (2 minute walk away) with DD we always like to greet the dogs and they do seem to put a smile on my face.

would it be a good idea or would i be putting more stress on myself?

any one with similar experience?

Dogs are great for getting you out and about and for snuggling with. Exercise, fresh air, time to think and chats with other doggy people can all be great for your outlook. However, dragging a whining 22 month old around with you while you're trying to walk/train your dog is not fun (been there, done that) so might cancel out any benefits. I'd wait until you've got your little one in preschool or reception and then you can really enjoy your dog properly. Hope you feel better soon .

hi betterchoice

i have no worries about DD she is constantly (every min!) asking me to go out to the park (field) i spend HOURS over there with her and have to drag her home screaming! she's so well behaved and no trouble at all. i wouldnt think of getting a dog if it would affect her, im lucky to have quite a relax little girl who loves outdoors

i think she will love going for walks and help training, she's bored indoors as is only me & her until older DC's are back from school so a dog could give us some great company too

it wont be this side of the yr, as i need a while to get a little better. just looking into it, getting ideas, opinions, info for when/if i do decide.

thanks for the feel better soon x

Oops; I didn't mean to imply that your toddler was whiny . If your little one is not as stubborn and "toddlerish" as mine was enthusiastic about taking pup out in all weathers then absolutely go for it! Dogs are incredibly funny and sweet and can bring wonderful things to childhood (and adulthood too!). Good Luck

I got my first dog on recommendation of my councellor, however I really wanted a dog, and she has totlly saved me, not been on ad's since. but dont undersestimate the work involved, for me having to do that wrk is what helps me, being bored is the worst thing that I cn be and my youngest had just started school and I had lost my job. I dont think I would have liked to have the dogs when the kids were at home full time, it means they get dragged out whatever the weather, and I definatly wouldnt consdier a husky, something easier.

Huskies and dalmations are on my future dogs I would like list but not while the kids are small. I now have a border terrier and a cocker spaniel. they make me smile every day.

betterchoice no worries i didnt see in that way :) just saying she wouldnt mind. she loves nothing better to put wellies on and stamp in the puddles when its raining!

....my DS2 on the other hand WAS a whiny toddler and i would never of considered getting a dog when he was young!

dita- yes me too, being bored is bad for me. i dont have family or friends near, i dont have any hobbies to occupy myslef with so when DD goes to sleep or (happily playing by herself) im sitting with nothing to do - my mind does over time thinking of how dull my life is (plus childhood issues whirl around)

I think a dog keeping me busy is what i need,keep me alert & gives me something to do (not that DD dont!) and the house work keeps me busy but its mind numbing boring chores.

a husky will remain on my dream wish list - maybe when kids are grown up.