Are Dogs The Right Kind of Pet For Someone Living in Chronic Pain?

It’s hard to argue with the fact that dogs are wonderful creatures. They can be trained to aid humans in a myriad of ways. They are life-changing for anyone with a disability, opening a world of accessibility whilst also offering an unparalleled type of emotional support. I share my life with two sausage dog mixes, both rescues. My youngest came with more issues than Vogue, the other has been with me for almost 14 years and he is the embodiment of loyalty and bad breath.

Articles on the mental health benefits dogs provide are countless, and I wholeheartedly agree with them. For so many people, dogs bring unlimited joy and a unique kind of love. But I do wonder whether they are the perfect companions for someone living in chronic pain, like myself. Often, my life is limited by my own body, and that's where it gets complicated.

Dogs are hard work

Dogs are one of the toughest types of animal companions to keep. They require daily exercise, a healthy diet that needs to be closely managed, a good amount of grooming, and cleaning up after. Dogs also crave human company, so leaving them home alone for hours on end is neither advisable nor right.

My dogs are both dachshunds-mixes, famously known to be very resistant to training, stubborn, and requiring daily intellectual stimulation. Additionally, I currently don’t have the luxury of a garden. Dogs can’t walk themselves, and with mine, this must be done three times a day. I also live by myself, which means there is no one else to take them out. I’ve walked my dogs in severe pain, bleeding profusely, and feeling really weak. There was no one else to do it so I had to, reluctantly, step up.

Yet, I wouldn’t change this lifestyle

My dogs are extremely sensitive to my disease. They require none of the lengthy explanations I must provide when canceling any social plans. They know when I am in pain and unable to function normally. When I am hurting and mostly horizontal, they not only happily lie by my side, but their warm bodies are a source of comfort. They recognize my suffering.

When my anxiety gets the best of me and I experience a panic attack, my youngest will leap towards me. He will nudge my face, howl, and bark until I focus on him, and agree to have him in my arms. This is incredibly soothing.

Dogs don’t judge us for our limitations. They don’t feel disappointed if we can give them the long walk we promised them. They won't get upset if we can’t gather the energy to force a smile. Looking you straight in the eyes, they will make you feel like the best human being in the world, even when your disease makes you feel like the worst.

As an endometriosis patient, I don’t know whether I would have chosen to have two dogs. Sometimes I can barely take care of myself. But I wouldn’t change this lifestyle, no matter how hard it gets. On the bad days, they give my life purpose. During flare-ups, they offer solace. Every moment spent with my dogs is one of happiness, warmth, and unconditional love. They are also the best heat pads whenever my cramps strike.

A dog won't be the best choice for everyone, but if they can fit one (or two) into your lifestyle, it is a move that's hard to regret.