SEPARATION ANXIETY

[Hippie Chick Ronnie]

I was just wondering. Penalope (dachshund) is my daughter's dog. She is very much attached to me and me to her. If my daughter moves out and takes Penalope with her, will she be sad, because I know I will. Everytime I go away, I miss my pets terribly. I wonder if they do too! ronnie

[Dr. Stephanie LaFarge]

Companion animals are amazing as you have observed. When they are separated from people they care about they can be fine but still show how overjoyed they are when you have a reunion. As far as we know, pets can miss people but still thrive. An important question for you is: how will I handle missing the creatures I love, both dog and daughter. You may find yourself grieving for their absence even though you know there are just a phone call away. This is normal and you will adjust to that new reality. As you aniticipate this transition, you can make a collection of things, pictures, scrapbooks, journal etc. ways you can remember them when they have moved away. The good news for you is that know you the dog will be so glad to see you when they visit. And you have the comfort of knowing that your daughter and your dog will be benefiting from having each other.

[Hippie Chick Ronnie]

Tears! thanks, that does help! Hopefully she won't be moving anytime soon, no job yet...Ronnie