You’ve longed to raise a pet for years, and finally muster the courage to bring one home, to embrace a life of great companionship. But wait…, as a first-time pet parent, do you find yourself in soup, always worrying about your little furball’s wellness? Does just a little less barking, once in a while picky eating, or even a bit longer sleep, give you a panic attack about your pet’s unexpected lurking illnesses? Welcome home indeed!
Being a fellow caregiver to 4 cats and a dog, I have felt a surge of worry whenever my pets have been under the weather. From the fear of choosing the wrong treatment option, guilt or helplessness to see a pet suffer, the ever-present fear of losing a pet, all of these thoughts used to push me into thinking whether I am capable enough to raise my furry companions. And this kept happening irrespective of the fact whether they were actually ill or were just being goofy.
Nevertheless, time has turned me from that nervous new pet parent into a calmer caregiver. Now, when I see my anxious clients facing similar worries, it just feels right to address this situation of first-time pet parents’ anxiety when their furry friends aren’t doing well.
Taking your pup or kitten to the vet is a crucial next step when they are sick, but the challenge for new pet owners is often managing their own anxiety during this stressful time. And guess what… our frayed nerves may not be helping our pets too. For example, dogs are incredibly attuned to our feelings, and yours might be picking up on your low spirits.
Now with time, through caring for my own sick pets, I’ve zeroed in on some helpful lifesavers to handle my pets’ illness and my own stress, with a steady mind. Here are some tips that worked for me!
1. Research Your Pet’s Breed
Different canine and feline breeds have varying behavior and tendencies. Learning what was typical for my pets’ breed, helped me become better equipped to differentiate between normal behaviour and potential health concerns. The more informed you are, the more confident you’ll be.
Your pet trainers, and veterinarians, can be a wealth of information if you are a first-time pet parent.
2. Join a Pet Parents Community
Pet parent communities like Pet Set PRO’s Community Page, can be a valuable resource for first-time pet parents and can help reduce anxiety. Connecting with other pet parents who have been through similar situations can be incredibly comforting. They can offer reassurance, share tips, and let you know you’re not alone in your anxieties. You can always clear your doubts when in dilemma by posting questions for other experienced pet parents to answer.
3. Focus on Facts
Anxiety thrives on uncertainty. In case of illness, it’s important to work with your veterinarian to understand the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of your pet. Knowledge is power, and knowing what to expect can ease your mind.
4. Fact-check before you freak out
If you’re a first-time pet parent, avoid reaching to the worst conclusions by reading articles from sources that are not credible. If you read about every possible worst-case scenario, it will only heighten your anxiety. Rely on only reputable websites and books on pet health.
5. Stay Positive, But Realistic
Positivity can be a powerful tool, but avoid unrealistic expectations.
When my oldest cat was diagnosed with CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease), I shifted my focus from the negatives to finding ways to improve his quality of life and manage his condition. For me, every improvement, no matter how small, is a positive step.
Focus on small victories, like your pup eating a full meal or wagging their tail again.
Acknowledging these wins, big or small, is important to stay motivated.
6. Practice Self-Care
It’s hard to give your all when you’re depleted. Prioritize activities that help you relax, like exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature. A healthy you is better equipped to care for your recovering pet.
Conclusion
Know that you’re doing a great job! Taking your pet to the vet regularly and following their advice shows you’re a responsible and loving pet parent. Focus on the love you share with your furry companion. It’s ok if you’ve made mistakes as a first-time pet parent, make today count. Studies show that spending time with pets can lower anxiety. Cuddle on the couch, read a book aloud or sing a silly song. These moments of connection forge lasting bonds.
Paromi Roy is a professional dog trainer with a passion for helping pet parents build harmonious relationships with their furry companions. With years of experience and a deep understanding of canine behaviour, she specialises in guiding first-time pet owners through the challenges of raising and training their dogs. When she’s not training dogs, she enjoys sharing her expertise through writing and community workshops.
