Quote:
Originally Posted by K1329Â 
I've struggled with this myself. My dogs were my kids & beloved fur-babies before I had children, but, now that I have young kids, I find I don't feel as bonded with my pets.
After giving the issue some thought, I've concluded that at this life stage, I am close enough to overwhelmed that they have become a "to do" list for me. I haven't come up with a solution, but, I do take solace in the fact that the dogs get tons if love and affection from my kids - they play with them nonstop & usually sleep with one of my kids.
Sometimes I think we only have so much to give, and, unfortunately, it's often the pets who come last! I'll be checking back for more responses, too - good luck!
I've struggled with this myself. My dogs were my kids & beloved fur-babies before I had children, but, now that I have young kids, I find I don't feel as bonded with my pets.
After giving the issue some thought, I've concluded that at this life stage, I am close enough to overwhelmed that they have become a "to do" list for me. I haven't come up with a solution, but, I do take solace in the fact that the dogs get tons if love and affection from my kids - they play with them nonstop & usually sleep with one of my kids.
Sometimes I think we only have so much to give, and, unfortunately, it's often the pets who come last! I'll be checking back for more responses, too - good luck!
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This is how i was - the dogs were my furbabies first! somethings that I have done - we volunteer with a dog rescue. 6 hours a month, one of my dogs & I sit at pet stores on behalf of the rescue- talking about adoption & the breed. This bonding experience brings me so much joy & time to spend with my furbaby. A chance to give back, volunteer & hang out with my dog :) and 6 hours by myself (well at least without my kids, DH or house chores)
In our rescue we make & sell a dog treat (for fundraising) I have my kids help make the treats- There are tons of dog treat cook books out there- this might be a fun way for your kids to bond with the dog(s). making treats for them.Â
in our rescue- we had a tween- make fleece dog tugs for us- (she donated them as a fundraiser) would your family enjoy that? I love activities that the family can participate in that also help others :)Â
I'm also a SAHM- there are times in the house when both the kids & the dogs make me crazy- but usually the dogs are my solace & companions when the kids start to drive me bonkers :)
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