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The doghouse

If you're worried about your pet's health, please speak to a vet or qualified professional.

Original poster

This is why we have a dog...

49 replies

StillMedusa · 18/10/2020 23:00

DS2, autistic with learning disabilities, (won't ever marry or be independent ..will need supported living one day) wanted a dog. So we thought long and hard..and got our girl.
It's taken over a year but he can now walk her independently, he does a bit of training every night with her and she has filled his world (and ours.. we adore her).. she loves him unconditionally.
Took this snap tonight as he was giving her treats for 'down' .. she has transformed his world.
Why do you have a dog...?

This is why we have a dog...
OP posts:
MJMG2015 · 18/10/2020 23:06

I can't believe it's been over a year, it seems like 5 minutes ago you were posting about getting her. What a year it's been hey!!

I'm so glad it's working out so well ☺️

My house (& a possible relocation overseas) isn't suitable for a dog, so I don't have one, but if I did, it would be because there's a dog shaped hole in my life that makes me happy when it has a spaniel in it!!

RonaCor · 18/10/2020 23:12

That's a wonderful post to read. Smile

thalassoma · 19/10/2020 04:46

I remember your original post, so glad it worked out. Thats a lovely photo.

And a beautiful dog. Look at that coat.

That must be lovely social interaction for him to walk independently with her. People always stop and say hi to a dog.

rainbowninja · 19/10/2020 05:06

Ahhh thanks for sharing some good news! We have 2 small dogs, we were hoping it would help me with anxiety about going out. I'm not sure it has helped so much with that but the companionship they give me is a wonderful thing 😊

mrsrobin · 19/10/2020 07:42

That is a really lovely photo; I can see how your DS and your dog have a great connection.
I have a dog - for companionship. I love the fact she makes me smile or laugh everyday.

AesSedaiGreenAjar · 19/10/2020 07:48

I don’t have a dog but I do love them. Your post has made me smile this morning. How lovely for you all, I do think having a pet is an amazing thing and brings so much joy

GiraffeNecked · 19/10/2020 08:19

That is lovely.

We finally were tipped over into deciding to actually get one when my husband’s son passed away. He needed something to love and care for and be loved by. It’s been absolutely the best thing for his mental health while grieving. She’s adorable and adored. A proper little therapy dog.

Sunnydaysstillhere · 19/10/2020 08:24

As an only dc I had an amazing ddoggy sibling.. As an adult despite my own many dc I still had a ddoggy shaped hole..
We now have 4 ddogs!!

QuentinWinters · 19/10/2020 08:25

I grew up with dogs but exH wouldn't let me have one.
Got a puppy a month ago, I love how pleased he is to see me, I love the structure that walking gives my day and I love the fact I get social interaction which I missed while WFH.
I love watching him run with my kids.
Best dog ever.

Weenurse · 19/10/2020 08:26

We have a dog as most people can’t find our door bell 😀
Seriously, we have a rescue who is jack Russell cross fox terrier.
She barks whenever someone enters our yard so no need for a door bell.
We have had her 7 years and she was 5 when we got her.
Unfortunately she has just been diagnosed with cancer, so we have limited time with her going forward.
Your son and dog look very connected, that is a great photo.

chunkyrun · 19/10/2020 08:28

Clutches heart that's wonderful

Runningdownthathill · 19/10/2020 08:29

What a lovely photo. An antidote to another thread about whether to get a cat or dog, and the overwhelming consensus seems to be cat, because dogs are such hard work. I was trying to convince myself I can cope with a dog and that thread out me right off! Your thread is lovely.

picklemewalnuts · 19/10/2020 08:34

Our dog was for me and the children.

However unexpected side bonus has been seeing DS1 (who has autism traits) being affectionate with the dog- baby talk, greeting and leave taking, the works. He talks to the dog more than he does us, and I love that he's learned how to show affection!

isthismylifenow · 19/10/2020 08:37

What a lovely post.

Svelteinmydreams · 19/10/2020 08:37

So glad he had that beautiful creature in his life, OP.

DDog1 was the catalyst for a lifestyle change for me , he’s seen me through bereavement & cancer. He’s such an empathetic sweetheart. DDog2 came along to enrich his life and is a total joy for all of us.
They are amazing creatures.

PollyRoulson · 19/10/2020 08:50

My reason for my dogs is nothing compared to StillMedusa what a great post to start the day. Smile

I was not allowed a dog when I was a child. Went to University and rescued one in the first term then came back home at Christmas with two. Changed my Uni course to Animal Behaviour and Welfare then an MSC in Clinical Behaviour and have been working and being with dogs ever since. They get under you skin and into your soul Grin

Everday I continue to be amazed by dogs and their relationship with humans

LaurieFairyCake · 19/10/2020 08:57

Great photo 🥰

We have a dog to enjoy the London parks with - a sedate, elegant girl you can take on the tube/river boat

We got a (mental, batshit, rescue) second dog during lockdown because clearly we like chaos Grin

1WildTeaParty · 19/10/2020 09:09

We have two. The first gave us all love and loyalty and fun. She became my personal trainer and kept me walking every day.

The second came as a pup and taught our foster children everything they now know about bringing up the young (you don't shout if you want them to understand you- you need to be consistent when teaching-their love and trust is freely given- you are responsible for their safety and happiness) He brought comedy too and continues to do so.

They are not 'hard work' and now WFH they give far more than they take.

NurseNancyandDoctorDavid · 19/10/2020 09:35

What a beautiful photo, adoration in the eyes!Thanks

ThisShitDontMatter · 19/10/2020 10:06

Dogs are amazing. They are a bit smelly and annoying at times, however they are so loving. My son had a fear of dogs from a collie barking at him when he was learning to walk outside, so at 11 we got a puppy for his sister who was 8 at the time and he just adores her! Its got him over his fear (he would cross a road if so much as a teacup yorkie was on the same side, it was silly). Now he would pat a great dane! Shes been his therapy and was a good puppy. Never tore up the house, toilet trained really quickly, sleeps all night, never has bit. Shes a pest now follows you everywhere but shes very good.

OP - that is a fantastic story and picture thankyou x

Mol1628 · 19/10/2020 10:13

Ah how lovely.

We inherited our dog when my nana passed away. I promised her we’d take care of her. Three years on and we are keeping the promise. She’s a lovely dog and a living reminder of my nana each day too which is nice.

I’d never had a dog before but I just don’t think I could not have one now.

Runningdownthathill · 19/10/2020 11:18

What kinds of dogs do you all have?

TheDaydreamBelievers · 19/10/2020 11:22

This makes my heart full, look at that wonderful bond Smile❤

QuentinWinters · 19/10/2020 11:44

Mines a spaniel x collie. He's lush.

WarriorsComeOutToPlayay · 19/10/2020 11:46

What a lovely post! Thank you OP, that has made me smile.