worst owner ever

ugh. I hate myself right now. I love my dog. I love taking her for walks. Can't manage to do it though. I love my horse. I keep him at a stable. Haven't made the five minute drive it takes to go see him in over a month. I hate myself for it. I LOVE my animals far more than I like most people. They are my solace. My rock in such a ****** world. but I cant' make myself do what is necessary to take care of them. WTF? I'm just a big piece of ****.

Molly, could it be you are depressed? When my depression was at it's worst I couldn't force myself to do anything.

As for your animals. If you are boarding your horse, the owners of the stable should be taking care of him. Could you spend some time with your dog that doesn't involve having to go for a walk> How about sitting on the floor and petting him?

Don't be so hard on yourself. You do sound like you could be depressed. I would contact my doctor and if he can help you out. I agree just petting your dogs let them know you love them and helps you feel better too.

Bet your dog loves you a whole lot more than you know. You are part of the pack, walks or no walk right now.

Just talk to your dog, you'll both feel a little better. . Hng in there. I always feel horrible when I'm unable to pay much attention to my critters (whether it's from depression or some external reason). You know that you care, and that you love them, I'm sure they're not going to hate you for falling on a rough time.

I know how you feel - I call my two dogs Needy & Demanding - Needy has eyes that make the guilt trip almost unbearable

Remember also, it's WINTER now.....I don't know about you....but wrapping myself all up to stay warm enough to go take my dogs out for a walk with it's 19F (32F = 0C ?)......just doesn't happen especially in the beginning of winter when I'm just trying to stay warm.....after I go stir crazy inside for awhile.....I start to poke my nose outside with my dogs.

Also with it being winter....SAD is a definitely known depression that comes with the winter & less sun light.....it gets really bad in Alaska.

Molly, taking your dogs out is not crucial. Being kind and spending a little time with them is crucial for both you and them...they need your companionship too. An early night snuggled up with them watching a film that will mean something to you, get them tears out or have some significance to you, the duvet time will help you all.

Horses again need your friendship. Im assuming you are in livery stables ( you are paying for the yard staff to care for your horse) so a visit for some hang out time is all you need to do.

Do you think your sadness will affect them? or are you attempting to withdraw from all contact with any beings?