The right thing?

[Survivor1687]

So I just passed on the opportunity to get a pet. A possible emotional support animal. (Sigh) I'm feeling sad I love animals and have really been wanting one again and missing the ones I've had very badly lately. But I feel that right now I am taking on alot of personal life challenges and must question if getting a pet would be the right or best thing to do right now. While having a pet is proven to help improve mental health, I feel it would be selfish if I am not thinking of what's also best for the animal, if I could properly care for an animal right now and give it the best life possible. There's a saying I've heard some use in recovery about waiting a year to take on new challenges or before making big decisions... And feel I'm already taking on some pretty major life changes amongst other things with little support. Did I make the right decision? There will be other opportunities in the future & plenty of animals that will always need homes and love. Any feedback would be much appreciated.

[71265]

Hi There! I Also Declined The Offer Of An Emotional Support Pet For All Those Reasons You've Pointed Out! 3 Years Later, I Still Have Not Gotten A Pet, Though I Love Cats, Because I Feel Like I Still Struggle To Just Take Care Of Myself. But I Have Taken To "God Mothering" Other People's Pets. I Visit, Pet Sit, Make Play Dates And Buy Toys And Treats For A Few Pets Of Friends So I Get The Emotional Support I Need Without Having To Make A Commitment I May Not Be Able To Fulfil.

[Hidden in reply to 71265]

Oh if you enjoy that my daughter volunteers at the Animal Rescue League walking dogs.She enjoys the exercise and the dogs are thrilled.I wonder if there is a shelter near your home where you could walk the dogs stuck at a shelter?

[Hidden]

Cats are easy to care for and make for good friends.One year after my divorce one of my dogs passed away and 4 months later the second dog died.Both were old dogs at 13 1/2 and 14 1/2.Heart broken I resisted adopting another dog for 6 months.Then I adopted Oreo who was my companion for over 15 years.A home without a pet can be very lonely.Adopt from a shelter and make yourself and the animal happy.

[Midori]

I wanted to adopt a dog, Not a huge one, as I used to have; I wouldn't be able to control it, or a tiny one which I would fall over! I would have loved a couch potato dog, something like a greyhound, or a whippet, which loves to run, but is just as happy on the rug in front of the fire.

But, at my age (74), I don't think it would be fair to a dog, as I don't know how much longer I have, and also the garden will be difficult to dog proof, as it is on more than one level, and would mean cutting my neighbour's view off.

I don't really Need a dog, although I have had them most of my life. I'm not so keen on cats, I like them, but at a distance.

If I get anything, it will probably be a couple of guinea pigs; they can be endlessly entertaining and talkative!

Cheers, Midori

[Against_the_current]

Follow your instinct. If you feel like it's not the right time, it's not. Pets need a lot of care. I love him but Bob caused more troubles than support. Looking after my roommates' dogs and it's hard because i can't even look after myself.. They're really cute but woke me up. Trust the timing