When We Miss Them as Much as They Miss Us

It’s common to talk about dogs who struggle with being left alone, but what about the humans who feel the same way? Many guardians find that leaving their dog, even for a short time, brings up genuine anxiety or guilt. The feeling is more widespread than you might think.

Some people describe a mild unease when they’re away from their dog, while others find travelling or being apart almost impossible. The reasons vary. For some, it starts after something goes wrong, perhaps a dog becomes unwell at a boarding kennel or a pet sitter forgets to visit. For others, the worry stems from knowing their dog had a difficult past, and the thought of leaving them feels like breaking a promise.

Many guardians make quiet vows to always keep their dog safe and happy, especially when the dog has already faced hardship. It’s natural to want to protect them and to find comfort in their closeness. But when that closeness turns into fear of being apart, it can become as challenging for the person as separation anxiety is for the dog.

Experts often remind us that while we can’t erase a dog’s past, we can help them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Dogs who have been through trauma may be fragile at first, but with gentle, consistent support, they can learn to cope with the world again. And sometimes, helping them build that confidence also helps us loosen our own grip a little.

Learning that a dog can be happy and settled in your absence takes time and sometimes courage. Some guardians attend workshops or online courses designed to help people manage the emotional side of caring for animals. These can offer valuable reminders: that it’s okay to rest, to travel, and to trust others to care for your dog when needed.

For many people, the first step is the hardest. Attending a training seminar or even taking a short trip away can help rebuild confidence. Coming home to find your dog relaxed and content can be proof enough that both of you are stronger than you realised.

And for those moments when the goodbyes still sting, a little self-kindness goes a long way. A comforting ritual, a favourite snack, or a simple reminder that love and absence can coexist may be all it takes to make parting just a bit easier.

Because the truth is, missing your dog doesn’t mean you’re over-attached. It just means you care deeply, and that’s something worth celebrating.

All the best, Victoria