((((hugs)))) of course you DO know that this is a part of healing, of progressing??? Before, when you didn't "know" the mental associations, you couldn't face any of it... now, as you begin to get better, your mind knows some of it is safe - you are safe enough - to begin to process it. Yes, you added those animals into your life for YOUR benefit... and yes, they are needy.. and no, you can't say no to them... just like you planned. I know it's not easy, and maybe you can adjust your er um THEIR schedules a bit, to make it a little easier for you.... or find other options... thinking of you... TC