Man's Best Friend - why dogs are the best therapy

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Question:  I've had a rough couple of months - I broke up with my ex and then a few weeks later, found out I was getting laid off.  The holidays don't make things easier and I've been feeling really down.  I'm trying to stay away from alcohol, eating too much, and definitely staying away from retail therapy.  What can I do that will make me feel better without having to feel guilty afterward?  (Toronto, Canada)

Social Shrink:  Since it's the holidays, if you have some great friends and family to surround you, that is the best place to start.  They are the ones who will provide you with unconditional love to get you through the hard time.  Just realize that these hard times will pass and you should be comforted to know that your family and true friends will always be there for you.

You should also use this time for self-reflection - think of the positives that come out of these situations.  Now that you are single, start taking advantage of doing stuff for YOU and what makes you the happiest.  In terms of your job, reflect on the next step and what would be your perfect job.  Once you're able to narrow this down, research how you can get there.  This time you should focus on YOU.

We'd also like to use this opportunity to share one of our personal ways to feel better and is, in our opinion, the best therapy after a bad day: dogs.  Dogs offer you unconditional love and attention when you need it most.  They are loyal companions who not only make dog owner's days brighter, but also are used in therapy for Alzheimer's disease and in clinical settings as comfort for the terminally ill.  Below are some adorable photos of puppies that may even make your day a little bit brighter.  Enjoy!



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