ALMA CANINAThe family dog: a source of support in hard times
There are times in life when everything feels shaky: an illness, a loss, a break up, a move abroad. At times like these, many families discover that their dog is far more than a pet. I lived this first hand with Loki during my cancer treatment, which is why this subject is so close to my heart.
What a dog brings
A dog doesn't solve your problems, but they help you carry them. Many people feel their dog gives them:
- Routine. You have to go out, feed them, play. When everything feels chaotic, that routine gives shape to the day.
- Movement. Walks get you out of the house, walking and breathing fresh air, even on the days you don't feel like it.
- Company without judgement. A dog doesn't ask questions, doesn't give advice and never gets tired of being by your side.
- Contact with other people. Walks lead to little conversations that mean a lot when you're feeling isolated.
Therapy dog, assistance dog and family dog
It's worth telling them apart. An assistance dog is trained to do specific tasks that help a person with a disability or medical condition. A therapy dog works alongside their handler in sessions with different people, for example in care homes or schools. Loki has done both. But most dogs who support their families are simply that: balanced, well cared for family dogs. Your dog doesn't need a certificate to be your support.
What your dog needs in return
Dogs feel the stress in a home too. Changes in routine, sadness or tension affect them, and sometimes new problems appear: barking, restlessness, chewing things or struggling to be left alone. It isn't that your dog is being naughty. They're trying to cope.
To keep being a support, your dog needs:
- Good quality walks, with time to sniff and explore.
- A routine that's as steady as possible.
- Calm and rest, with a space of their own.
- Help when the family can't manage everything.
When you can't do it all
Asking for help isn't letting your dog down. It's looking after them. That's why I started Alma Canina: to support families going through a hard time, whether that's with training sessions, walks or looking after their dog for a few days. If this sounds familiar, get in touch. And if you'd like to know how it all began, here's my story.
