[Jensitive22]

Though much of last night's debacle was resolved (see earlier post), I am feeling emotionally fragile today. My dog has been on my lap a lot and hanging on to him helps. I've cried a couple of times, but there was no real release. I feel clenched up inside and my stomach hurts.

Because of all the yelling last night, I feel like the whole street knows our business, and I am embarrassed. The house is all closed up. Even going out to walk my dog seems unbearable because I'm afraid I am going to feel the judgement of my neighbors as well as hostility towards my dog. If one neighbor has come over and complained, how many have felt the same way and just didn't have the courage to come over and tell us?

My dog, Sam, is not the only dog on our street or the mobile home park. There are at least 6 other dogs on our street alone, but our dog probably barks the most. He is a spaniel/poodle mix and a talker, particularly in the early evening and on the weekends. My husband is loud and boisterous and the dog responds to that. I am quiet, so during the day when my husband is at work, Sam is quiet, too. I've tried to explain this to my husband before, now, after last night, he realizes he needs to be calmer around our dog.

I just need to feel comfortable and safe at home. I need for my dog to be accepted where we live. I've had him for 7 years, longer than my husband, and he has been with me through several bad depressive episodes.

Feeling fragile too Jensitive. I just stood up for myself. As much as I love my now ex boyfriend (as of an hour ago), I had to break up with him (trust issue). And now I feel weak and like I'm made of glass.

What are you going to do now? Husband's behaviour was not appropriate and frightens me. Do you have somewhere to go or a friend to turn to?

[Skeezyks]

We have a schnauzer / poodle mix. We adopted him about 8 years ago when he was estimated to be about 2 or 3 years old. To borrow a hackneyed phrase, he is the light of our lives. I'm glad you have the warmth & comfort your dog gives you... even if he can be at times exasperating. If your husband can be more calm around your dog, this will help. Also, there is a phrase with which you may be familiar, that I think may be apropos. It is: a tired dog is a good dog. I send you healing thoughts that you may find peace.

[Jensitive22]

Thanks, Skeezyks. I've had Sam almost 8 years. Got him from a pet store at 5 months. He's been with me through my divorce and filled my empty nest when my youngest went to college. I call him my 4th child. I think you're right, he needs to get out more.

[Jensitive22]

I'm sorry about your boyfriend RCat. That must have been hard breaking up with him. I'm sure you had good reasons, but that empty feeling is hell. Hope you have some support through this. As for myself, my husband has apologized, I heal and I carry on for now. I made him a good dinner and he was grateful. It is what is.

[WibblyWobbly]

Excuse my language, but screw your neighbors! I have a little one-eyed beagle mix and he is adorable and the love of my life. Nobody comes between us.

I'm sure it's uncomfortable having your business out there, but just remember that nobody can do anything to you. The pound won't come take your dog because he is barking. If he's outside after a certain hour and barking the cops can issue a citation but it's a really cheap ticket.

Anyway, I'm glad you are back on good terms with your hubs and he was receptive to not getting the dog wound up. Our furbabies are just so sensitive

[Jensitive22]

Thanks Wibbly Wobbly! You're right. Sam is an indoor dog, so they can't site us for outdoor barking, unless they count barking on walks. This trailer park is full of cats!!!

We can do better on eliminating some of the barking, be he can't be expected not to bark at all.