Seeking Support to Manage Intense Emotions and Negative Thoughts Toward My Partner's Dog

[Golden_Dawn]

Hi everyone,

I’m going through a difficult time and feel like I need support and guidance. I’m in a relationship that I value deeply, but there’s one issue that’s becoming increasingly overwhelming for me: living with my partner’s dog. I’m not entirely sure why, but I struggle a lot with the dog’s presence, and it triggers a mix of intense emotions like frustration, anger, and sadness. I know the dog is very important to my partner, but I feel increasingly weighed down, and these feelings are affecting my emotional well-being and our relationship.

On top of this, I’m also in a challenging phase—I’m unemployed and find myself in a cycle of negative thoughts that I can’t seem to break. I’ve tried different strategies to improve my relationship with the dog, but nothing seems to work, and I’m feeling emotionally exhausted. I’m in couples therapy, but I find it hard to fully open up because I’m afraid of being judged or hurting my partner.

I’d love to receive support or hear from anyone who may have gone through something similar. Any advice on how to manage these feelings and thoughts in a healthier way would be greatly appreciated. I feel like this negativity isn’t really who I am, but these thoughts and emotions are taking over my life and my relationship.

Thank you for reading, and I appreciate any guidance you can share.

[Dolphin14]

Golden_Dawn

I'm not really sure what to say but I have noticed along the way in my life that animals can sense tension and can tell when people aren't animal lovers.

I'm not sure what the reason is that you don't like the dog but maybe talking to a vet can give you some understanding of things? Just a thought

🐬

[Hidden]

If I were you I would take the dog for a walk and help take care of it such as feeding it!

Maybe you and your partner could both take the dog for a walk!

The dog could be your very best friend if you would allow it!

Have you thought of taking it to dog day care?

The dog loves you too!

[BeachynPeachy]

Golden_Dawn,I am so glad you were able to express your thoughts and feelings here. It sounds like it might not be the dog, but that the dog is triggering feelings about your own life and your ownself. I wonder if in therapy you could focus on just those feelings and leave out the dog part. This is really about healing you and not fixing the dog. When you feel better about yourself, the dog will be something that you will be able to cope with. I freaking love my pups to death but when I feel like sh*t I get upset, frustrated and angry because I know they need my care but I don't have anything left to give.

[Hidden]

I could never do couple's therapy; just like you said, you can't say all that's on your mind for fear of hurting your partner. Pets aren't for everybody - I think it's like having children, and not everyone wants the responsibility.

[BeachynPeachy]

Hi Dawn, I wanted to check in and see how you and the situation were doing.