You're not alone. I wouldn't trade my Loki (bird) for anything, but I worry, what if my boyfriend and I decide to go our separate ways. I don't know if I could take him with me, because my boyfriend paid for him and I don't think he'd let me take him. Loki likes me better, in that he lets me pet him more and I give him far more attention. But I also feel a little limited, because I can't travel somewhere for several days, because I know he'll miss me and be worried and I feel guilty leaving him. So, I won't go anywhere where I'll be gone for more than two or three days.

I also want dogs, and I want them to sleep with me, but at the same time, I really like having my bed to myself. I like being able to sleep most days however long I want. If I had a dog, I'd commit to walking it and playing with it, and taking care of all its needs. I admit I'd miss some of my freedoms, but it's worth it, to me. You don't need to be ashamed of how you feel, because we don't choose our feelings, only our attitudes. Having others who depend on you can sometimes feel limiting and trapped. (((seeker1950)))

Editing this to add one more thing: Even parents often feel "tied down" because of their children. This doesn't mean they don't love them, but it's a reality that even moms and dads feel that way.