moose Be kind to yourself. You are feeling awful. You have hardly been out of the house. The puppy has a high level of needs. You actually need a break if you can. Even if you can just go and sit in a cafe with a coffee and large slice of cake and think of nothing but the luxury of having time to yourself.
I work only a few hours a week, but it gives me an opportunity to sit at a desk and engage in a bit of banter, a few giggles and not think about the dogs or what needs doing in the house. I stress about stuff that doesn't ever happen otherwise, like if the dogs are anxious or need to toilet or whether the kids have blown up the house (it's half term!).
Moose, you are important too, take some time.
Sorry - I did think I posted last night but it must have been lost. We use Petplan too and I have been very pleased indeed, and we have claimed a lot in a year. We use another insurer for Dpony, who are not as bad as their reputation suggests, but not as good as Petplan. Harry (Spinger, 16 months, 103848204 claims, £28 per month), Hector (12 week old cocker, £27 per month.
Another advantage of Petplan is that the vet claims direct, so you only pay the excess. I hear good stuff about M&S too just as an aside.
NCISaddict - I do know what you mean, it can be the little stuff that strikes an emotional chord.
mint - we do the sits, waits, leave it commands for the dogs self control more than anything, rather than necessity. I don't conform to any dominance theories, but waiting before coming inside going through doors etc just reinforces good manners for me (and helps with muddy paws!)