Here are 10 ways to help you care for yourself when you are a carer. Remember, every person who is looking after their companion with DM is a Carer. 

1. Trust yourself and know that it’s ok to cry
“Tears are not a weakness. We're human, and we feel the way we do because of love.

“Trust your instinct. You know the dog you're caring for probably better than anyone else in the world. If something isn’t right, or you have a feeling of what will benefit them, go with it.”

2. Lots of laughter can help

3. Be honest about your own needs
“Don’t make out to others that you’re coping when you’re not. I’m always cheery no matter what. Outwardly, I looked like I was coping but inside I was a mess”.

4. Keep your batteries charged
“In the beginning, my biggest mistake was not accepting help, and I tried to do far too much. So, take time for yourself, even if it’s just lunch with friends or a walk in the park, or sitting in another room, reading a book or having a relaxing bath – me time is vital.”

5. Keep supportive family and friends informed
“One of the things I did that I would wholeheartedly recommend, was that I kept supportive family and friends updated with regular group emails. From their point of view this meant that everyone got the same story at the same time, which reduced speculation and well-meaning gossip”.
“From my point of view, it meant that I didn’t have the stress of having to keep repeating myself”,

6. Say yes to help
“Your emotions are all over the place, and you’re worried and stressed.”
“don't think you can do it all yourself because it will take its toll.”
Sometimes, friends, family, neighbours and even strangers are more than happy to help out and share the load if asked, reach out, you may be surprised..
“Getting some help and support, so you have some time for yourself, no matter how little that is, even if it is only for an hour it can make the world of difference for you AND the dog you care for.” 

7. Accept kindness from others
“Find someone to talk to about things that distress you so they don’t build up. The more you can feel reassured that you’re doing everything you can, the less likely it is that feelings of regret will trouble you later.”

8. Look for guidance
“Find out as much as you can about the physical and practical side of caring, such as medical and dietary needs, the right bedding, personal and mobility care items and know-how. Ask other carers for their guidance on how they cope.”
“Get advice and guidance from those you feel comfortable with. Your veterinarian and support groups like the FB DM Awareness Group can help, and make use of resources and information you can find”

9. Remember you have to be well to be a carer
To be able to care, you need to care for yourself. “The most important lesson I learned as a carer was that the situation can get much worse if I become to tired or unwell.”
“Our dogs pick up on our emotions, if we are tired and run down, they will respond in a sad manner, if we are rested and positive, they will respond positively and in a much more upbeat manner”.

10. And finally…Don’t be too hard on yourself
“Learn to accept you’ll have days when you feel like you can cope and others when you question every decision. Don’t feel guilty for wanting to take some time out, even a five-minute one.”