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How far do you go to indulge the obsessions?

andyjay

Hi All,

My 12 year old daughter is obsessed with dogs (we think she has Aspergers, undiagnosed as yet) she always has been for as long as I can remember.

We have one dog already, who is her best friend in the whole world and I've just agreed to let her have a second, telling her that this is her last one.

She spoils the dog we have, although she looks after him well and I've resisted introducing another into our family for a while.

The problem is that I've had a very negative response from people I've told, people saying that I shouldn't indulge her obsession so much. Do people think I'm being silly by agreeing to the other dog or will it be good for her?

I'm starting to feel very confused.

Thanks

Andrea

  • Hi,

    One thing your child will give is total devotion unlike the can I have can I have can I have a hamster knowing full well you will be looking after said animal so go for it you know your child best...... My 9 year olds obsession is anything that gets a reaction ie turning taps on watching washing machines go round again and again but it's what he does so at the last count we have had 3 washing machines 2 tumble driers and 10 personal DVD players and 2 touch screen pcs he has worn out oh and flooded the bathroom twice and kitchen once, he's gonna bankrupt me the little angel.......good luck....

  • Hi, thanks for that. We're going to go ahead and get the puppy, you've reassured me I'm doing the right thing.

    Her Bobby dog is everything to her and he is constantly at her side. My favourite photo's in the whole world are ones where my daughter fell asleep on the sofa and Bobby was curled up next to her fast asleep too.

    I think you're right, it would give her another friend and a puppy would also be a good way of teaching her responsibility. We got Bobby as an adult rescue dog and she didn't have to start at the beginning training him.

    It's lovely to read about the relationship you have with your animals and pretty much like you, my girl has always prefered animals to humans. In fact at times when she's feeling anxious or upset about something, Bobby is the only being that's been allowed anywhere near her.

    I suppose other people just don't see the wider picture and don't understand how precious this pup will become to my girl. It's good to hear from someone who does.

    Take care

    Andrea

  • My family has one dog, 3 cats (ones 'mine') and I have three geckos. If she can care for another dog and is happy to take on the responsibility, I see no problem with it. I've got aspergers (I'm 17) and I love most animals. My main obsession is dragons, and I have tons of dragon pictures, toys, models, etc.

    But seriously, I grew up with two cats (both deceased, miss them so much :( ) who I spent most of my life playing with or cuddling. I relate to animals far better than humans and having animals around gives me someone to relate to who won't insult me for my opinions. Its also good for teaching me responsibilties. I help walk the dog, I feed the cats and I buy all the equipment/food for my geckos (and I spoil all of them).

    By giving her another dog to look after, I think you'll be essentially giving her another friend, and it does feel good to be able to fuss and look after someone who doesn't judge. Like my cat Smokey (aka Fatso) who is rather tubby, he just purrs everytime I pick him up and fuss him.

    Try not to focus on the 'obsession' side of things. Far as I can tell, if shes so good at taking care of one dog, another will just challenge her to be more responsible and give her a new friend.