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Is it hard to have depression and have a pet?

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kicknit

11/16/2022 at 11:31 PM

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kicknit

Last activity on 01/06/2023 at 1:36 AM

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So I LOVE watching animals on instagram reels (it's like 80% of what I do on that app). I don't have a pet but I really want one. I am scared that on my bad days I won't be able to take care of it. I can barely take care of my self on those days. But I also read that having an animal can help with feeling connected to something and give my life purpose. What do you think? Do you have a pet? Does it help your depression? Are you able to care properly for it?

Let me know, I really want a dog...

Thanks!

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kisslamarre

12/17/2022 at 3:12 PM

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kisslamarre

Last activity on 11/11/2024 at 12:21 AM

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Pets are my key to help me feel better. I would never go without a dog. They are the ultimate in unconditional love. People can learn a lot from dogs! Check out your nearest Humane Society and go for a visit!

Be sure to update us, would love to see how you are effected from a dog🐕‍🦺

Is it hard to have depression and have a pet? https://www.carenity.us/forum/depression/living-with-depression/is-it-hard-to-have-depression-and-have-a-pet-5029 2022-12-17 15:12:14

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LizziB

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11/16/2022 at 11:45 PM

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LizziB

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Last activity on 04/21/2024 at 8:17 PM

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Hi @kicknit

How are you doing today?

I always read articles that say having a pet is helpful for humans to destress. I think it is good to know what your bandwidth as a person is for taking care of yourself and another living thing, whether it be a family member or pet. I will ask some of the other members if they have a pet and how they are able to balance caring for them along with depression.

@fozzy2blue @Richyboy @Suzanne95 @Hambone13 @Dnquintela @meme22 @Priceless1991 @Cadenbriggs @Marmateo @babygirl6640 @Jlmag! @andrewbabb1992 @Mammabear85 @Vodkafly @Aprilpresnell @SierraLS9 @emilylflores @misand @Val0905 @shamianirie @TyraJ. @love44 @Kingston @Justinchad310 @gmlamb @amscott11 @KZDavis8 @Jacjoslog @Scribb1985 @Coleybug @Sunpower50 @MakeitRight10 @beg2097 @Maferotaku

Do you have a pet? What kind of pet do you have? Does it help with your depression? Are you able to care for both them and yourself? What advice can you offer?

Take care,

Lizzi

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LizziB

Is it hard to have depression and have a pet? https://www.carenity.us/forum/depression/living-with-depression/is-it-hard-to-have-depression-and-have-a-pet-5029 2022-11-16 23:45:50

Lalove78

12/13/2022 at 8:01 PM

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Last activity on 10/04/2022 at 6:42 AM

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Hello Kicknit,

Yes! Having a pet does help, at least for me. I have two bearded dragons and leopard gecko. They don't need as much attention as as dog does but they do love to come out and roam around. And they are perfect for me. Do what suits you and makes you happy. :)

Is it hard to have depression and have a pet? https://www.carenity.us/forum/depression/living-with-depression/is-it-hard-to-have-depression-and-have-a-pet-5029 2022-12-13 20:01:35

kisslamarre

12/17/2022 at 3:12 PM

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Last activity on 11/11/2024 at 12:21 AM

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Be sure to update us, would love to see how you are effected from a dog🐕‍🦺

Is it hard to have depression and have a pet? https://www.carenity.us/forum/depression/living-with-depression/is-it-hard-to-have-depression-and-have-a-pet-5029 2022-12-17 15:12:14

moonshower2

01/02/2023 at 8:48 PM

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Last activity on 10/21/2024 at 11:32 PM

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Having a pet absolutely helps me. I need something to take care of beside myself, or I would be dead. My dog is my reality check and I can always cuddle up to her. She's tiny and I'm in a condo, so she goes pee and poop on a pad in the closet. Cats are easier to care for, but I'm allergic. Best of luck and Happy New Year!

Is it hard to have depression and have a pet? https://www.carenity.us/forum/depression/living-with-depression/is-it-hard-to-have-depression-and-have-a-pet-5029 2023-01-02 20:48:56

Dr.WhoPeggygmail.com

01/03/2023 at 5:14 PM

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Hi kicknit. Thx for sharing. If u want a dog, a suggestion for u is try taking care of a friend's pet first. Yes, pets can be time consuming altho enjoyable. I had a cat, such a good girl. True, dogs are diff from kitties, but nonetheless great company. Just my 2 cents worth. Taking care of yourself is paramount important too. Well wishes.

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Peggy Erickson

Is it hard to have depression and have a pet? https://www.carenity.us/forum/depression/living-with-depression/is-it-hard-to-have-depression-and-have-a-pet-5029 2023-01-03 17:14:50

Thakera

01/04/2023 at 1:54 AM

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Last activity on 08/02/2024 at 9:44 PM

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Absolutely, that is my go to, when feeling sad. Please if not a dog get a least a cat hardly any work unless you spoil them. The hardest part of having a cat is cleaning their litter box. Cats are worth it because they love to cuddle all the time. Oops, their is a vet bill if you let him roam outside that is work too.

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Thakera Cast

Is it hard to have depression and have a pet? https://www.carenity.us/forum/depression/living-with-depression/is-it-hard-to-have-depression-and-have-a-pet-5029 2023-01-04 01:54:50

JennyR83

01/21/2023 at 4:53 PM

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Last activity on 02/03/2023 at 8:23 PM

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I adopted my 7 month old kitten on the 6th. And the changes that she has brought out in me and my depression are amazing. I was alone an hour from the closest big city. Now there's always someone here with me and she is a cuddle bug so it's beneficial. I'm very glad I adopted her. And I think the feeling is mutual LOL

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Jenn

Is it hard to have depression and have a pet? https://www.carenity.us/forum/depression/living-with-depression/is-it-hard-to-have-depression-and-have-a-pet-5029 2023-01-21 16:53:19

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