Hi friends, we are Kisha and Sonte. We are twin sisters and dog moms to Kingsley & Charlamagne, our giant schnauzer and goldendoodle. Though our dogs are two and four years old now, navigating a new experience of puppyhood came as no easy feat which we often discuss on our Instagram account @Kingsley_Charlamamgne_thadood. In fact, we had such a difficult time with our Giant Schnauzer Kingsley, that we ended up in a dark place where we considered whether we should take her back to the breeder. Luckily for us, we pushed through the struggle and found nothing but joy and love on the other end of it. It wasn’t easy, but if this is resonating with you, let me share our journey with Kingsley and how we got through postpawtum depression.
What is Postpawtum Depression
This was a mistake! If you’ve ever said this after bringing home a new furry family member, whether as a puppy or an adult adoptee, know that you are not alone. Postpawtum depression refers to an emotional state of feeling regret, anxiety, and sadness after bringing home your new pet. Similar to postpartum depression, there are universal difficulties with adjusting to life with a new baby of any species. It is actually very common to have these feelings and it can last anywhere from days to months. Often, when you’re getting a new pet, people will fill your head with all the joy and wonder of becoming a new pet parent. Even horror stories are told in jest as cute memories of a puppy eating your favorite shoes. You spend quite a bit of time searching breeders and rescues for the perfect pet. You’ve even named them before you’ve laid eyes on them, dreaming of the day you get to meet them. When that day comes, and your new pet is anything less than that beautiful dream, it can be easy to question your decision. The truth is, nothing prepares you, not even previous experience. Doing all the research ahead of time on potty training, acclimating a rescue, & setting house rules is a great foundation, but you really have no idea of what you’re getting yourself into until you’re in it. When the reality sets in and it doesn’t seem to be getting better you may feel like a failure, not bonded, and that the pet will be better off with a different owner.
