Anyone who walks into a self help section of a bookstore will find numerous books published that offers information to individuals to help them manage through the process of a relationship breakdown but how many actually offer sound suggestions and support for considerations that effects our loved animals? Not very many - actually none that I have seen until now.
There are many considerations people make during a break up like who gets the TV and who takes the brand new coffee maker which has all the bells and whistles.
How much thought do we give to who takes care of the dually owned dog, cat, fish or bird? My experience with a common law relationship breakdown drove me to really look carefully of who would be the best individual to continue caring for our pet.
We both equally loved our dog, but who would he be better off with was the question at the time? I was less playful and less eager to take him for walks but the ex was less available to cuddle him or ensure someone was home on time to let him out for a run in the yard or to make certain his dishes were full.
We really had to do some unselfish thinking and keep our personal feelings towards one another from clouding our judgement on what was in our dog's best interest.
We didn't have any children then but if we did, that may have helped the decision in terms of keeping any children and pets together to offer stability to as many family members as possible.
The continuous companionship could only be beneficial under usual circumstances.
People always say, "don't fight in front of your kids.
"I agree and will take it one step further to include your pets.
It also has feelings and fears so I encourage people to remember that.
We've all seen a dog whimper - it's heart wrenching.
Observe their body language during one of your heated conversations.
Are they shivering or hiding under the coach? Remember to ensure that they are feeling save as you would if it were a child.
Once couples part ways they typically appreciate the loyal love our animals provide when we really needit but with that comes less opportunity to take advantage of new found freedom to evolve our social calendars.
You simply do not have the luxury of staying our late after workwith friends or taking off for the weekend.
Sincere discussions need to take place during this process of a break up.
Our pets are our kids for manyand it's an important responsibility financially and otherwise.
For more support on breaking up when pets are involved, consider the information offered in the book, 'The Business of Breaking Up - Your Personal Guide'.
Let the information offer support to you and your pet.