We rescued Shuri in 2019. An asocial pup, she came to us with a lot of anxiety. She refused to be picked up, hugged or cuddled with. She would often hide beneath the bed or dining table. At the time, I was also going through clinical depression. Because Shuri is a pug, she frequently falls ill as pugs tend to be susceptible to health problems due to the unethical nature of their breeding process. With tons of love and whole bunch of respecting boundaries, Shuri has grown up to become quite a cheerful little doge. Caring for her has helped me understand myself better too. So here are 6 lessons my dog taught me about myself (someone with a cocktail of mental health troubles).
1. Most times, what I need is company – to know that I am not alone.
Shuri and me in bed, with her lying next to me.
2. I may have strange reactions to new experiences due to anxiety, but eventually I will get past these fears. They might take a looong time, but I will get there.
Shuri barking at an approaching stranger trying to pet her.
Shuri happily allowing a hand to pet her.
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3. Sometimes I like to be alone. I don’t have to feel guilty about getting some me time.
Shuri sleeping alone, dreaming of a tasty bone.
4. If I don’t like to be touched, I don’t have to allow it just to please others. It is okay to say no when I don’t feel like it.
Shuri simply sitting next to me.
5. I feel depressed very often, and it may not make sense to many people, but that doesn’t make me a burden to my loved ones!
Shuri sleeping in my lap.
6. When you want affirmation, reaching out to your close friends is okay! Honestly, it makes them feel really good.
A selfie of Shuri and me.