You've been away from home. You feel lonely, with a sense of physical loss you can't quite explain. You find yourself yearning for affection of some kind, but other people don't seem to help. After a great deal of deliberation, you've come to a difficult truth: you're obsessed with your dog and have withdrawal.
As it turns out, you are the "dog parent" (or sibling, distant relative, etc.), which is a slightly more positive version of the "crazy cat lady" (or man), but with dogs.
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Regardless of societal stigma and how you feel about that, you still definitely feel lonely and are missing your pet. Maybe you're away from college, out of town or country, visiting some relatives, on a business trip, or something else. But your furry friend is not with you.
As a college student 900 miles away from home, with two to three dogs throughout my time here, I definitely get that feeling. A dog is a very special part of the family and it is hard not to have them. For those of you experiencing this, these are some ways I've found that help not having your pet with you:
1. Go to the Park
Walks are a great way to meet people with dogs, and parks are ideal locations for that. If it is a nice day out, I know I will see at least one dog while I am at the park—and their owner might even let me pet them.
2. Go to a Dog Park
Perhaps the park is not specific enough. Maybe you live in a neighborhood that hates canines in public places. Go to a dog park. They will definitely will be there.
3. Volunteer at a Shelter
There are lot of dogs in need of a home. If you can restrain yourself and are in a particular place for a long enough time, I recommend volunteering at a shelter. You will get to interact with quite a few dogs and can feel good about making their days a little bit brighter.
4. Visit Adoption Events
If you can't volunteer at a shelter, this is another great alternative. Many shelters and other organizations have outside adoption events. Look in the paper, online, or call up the shelters themselves. You don't have to adopt any of the dogs, but you can at least go and show a few of them some love.
5. Make Friends with a Dog Owner
Then invite yourself over for dinner and love their dog. They don't need to know you didn't come for them.
6. Video Call
If you are really desperate and none of these are an option, arrange with someone to help video call your pet. Dogs get really intrigued by this and may have a reaction that makes your heart explode.
While it may be hard to be away from a pet, especially one as loving and as lovable as a dog, there are definitely ways to get through those times until you get to see them again.
