Sad boy

By Anonymous - 15/01/2016 16:41 - Canada - London

Today, I took my labrador to the vet because he seemed really sick and wasn't acting like his usual self the past few weeks. The vet said nothing was physically wrong with him and that he's most likely suffering from depression. My own depression is why I got a dog in the first place. FML
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Top comments

HoboMeth 33

I heard from a different FML that dogs usually mimic their owner's habits

260 3
kdgsmiley 23

I'm sorry OP. Maybe if you take him to a dog park he'll connect with some other dogs and cheer up - who knows, you might even connect with someone else yourself!

211 2

Comments

HoboMeth 33

I heard from a different FML that dogs usually mimic their owner's habits

260 3
JHPugh 19

That's true. Dogs usually can mimic the vibes from their owners, even if you're not outwardly displaying them. My dog used to bark at pretty much everything and growl and such whenever I was feeling hostile.

16 0
hfslkp47012759 28

NOT TRUE. My dog won't shit in the toilet and I NEVER shit on the rug.

19 22
PencilTips 19

I can't tell if you're being sarcastic, or you're just a moron.

17 10
Replyka 17

That's clearly sarcasm. I thought it was funny.

10 3
kdgsmiley 23

I'm sorry OP. Maybe if you take him to a dog park he'll connect with some other dogs and cheer up - who knows, you might even connect with someone else yourself!

211 2
ipodtouchgirl 21

My dogs always seem to cheer up whenever I take them to the dog park. Plus it allows you to socialize with other dog owners who may have more advice on how to handle your dogs depression

5 0
tranced_ 45

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5 38
WarMachine68 24

I don't think that really applies here...

30 2
IAmzephyr 22

depression doesn't work like that..

32 0
cloudyface 23

Maybe this is the chance for you guys to heal together.

59 1
ber4fun 23

Yes, cheering each other up can only lead to happiness.

5 0
IHaveThePower 16

Taking care of someone can help people. If OP already got a dog, then giving the dog lots of pettings and playing with them might help OP, too.

0 0
PossiblyInDanger 24

If you aren't home all the time, it's possible your dog could be lonely. Get a second dog, you'll have more love from both of them, and everyone will be happy. Plus, you can never have too many dogs.

16 17
zach205 24

Tell that to the animal hoarders that have like 20 and live alone.

30 6
InsanityVerge 8

both dogs could sink into depression if its a manifestation of the owner. its a really bad idea to get another dog. however. if you arnt home you could take him to a dog day camp a couple times a week. petsmart some run them for 21 dollars a week and ive seen alot of dogs benifit from it. in lots of ways...

4 0
ourtneyc 14

I think it would be fun for the both of you to possibly take him to dog parks, walks, etc. just lots of playtime! I think it would pep up the both of you and create a good connection :-)

19 0
schmoo_schmoo 14

Sounds like it might be incentive for you to take the first step to recovery for both you and your dog. Dog's can bring such happiness and you seeing him/her light up every time they see you would certainly help make you feel better I think. Best of luck op!

15 1
AmandaLe 11

Maybe getting another dog so he has someone to play with when your not around. Fish's are fun.

3 10
aeryn97 17

Our old cat became depressed when the dog died so animals can experience depression.

11 0
GamerG0DDESS 29

This is very true. I had 2 huskies who my family and I thought hated each other; but, when one of them passed the other got incredibly depressed and reclusive. Refused to do much for a couple months. We put a lot of effort in trying to console her, took her for long walks and played with her, anything that we knew she enjoyed. Thankfully, she's back to her old self.

10 1
katertott 44

I've never had a dog, but I do know that pets of all kinds usually feed off of their owners' energy. Perhaps you two can try some fun new activities to bond a little better. Taking walks on new routes, playing fetch with different toys (frisbee vs ball), playing in the snow/sprinklers/kiddie pool, going on doggy playdates, car rides, trip to the pet store... Labs especially are social and love to work, play, and make their handlers happy. Maybe giving him some little jobs here and there will cheer him up. He could carry in the paper each morning or be trained to do other helpful things. While on walks, he could wear a doggie vest filled with toys, treats, pet waste bags, his water bottle and collapsible dish. As long as he's stimulated in a positive way, he shouldn't develop any destructive behaviors or social problems. Best of luck!

20 1
oasis359 13

katertott is right. these are all activitys my dogs enjoy.

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Brandi_Faith 33

11 is right. I know it's hard to do stuff when you're depressed, but just throwing a ball around the house will make all the difference to your pet. When a pet is depressed it usually isn't like a human, they can snap out of it quickly if you get some treats out or play with some toys or go for a run, etc. It's almost more like they're bored & sad than actually depressed. You're going to have to try and do some fun things with your pup (you don't even have to leave the house necessarily) for the sake of your pup. I think teaching your pup new tricks would be a good starting point. You don't have to leave the house, so it's starting small, & nothing gets pups more happy than treats and work! Nothing gets you motivated and perks your up a bit than having to take care of, play with, & love on your pup. I have health issues and am home sick all day and got a pup for this reason exactly. He motivates me to get out of bed and play and pay attention to him.

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