During the week, make plans away from your home as much as possible. It is far less painful to go to a movie alone than it is to be in the same place as someone you don't want to be around. When you need quiet time, libraries, museums and art galleries tend to be very peaceful places. Pet adoption places sometimes need volunteers to walk and play with animals, especially in the evenings. And dogs dont expect too much serious conversation about life.

I'm not a fan of avoiding things, but in some cases, it's the only option. You'll get through it and be stronger on the other side.