Anxious about my dog.

[lost_soul]

Lately I've been really anxious about my dog dying.
My dog is a Pugalier (Pug X Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) and he's turning eight this year.

I know he's not that old, but he's overweight and arthritic, and I know it's probably a bit uncalled for, but I worry so much that one day I'll wake up, and he won't be breathing anymore.

It's my worst nightmare, and it's really getting me down.
I can't lose my dog, and my thoughts are probably a bit silly and a bit early, but it doesn't make them any less stressful.

Does anyone else get this? What do you do about it?

Thank you

[ALLorNOTHINGforCHRIST]

Well first of all, it is not odd MANY people see their dogs as family and feel that it will be tough when they pass.

If he is overweight try putting him on a diet ( designed by a vet would be best). You can also try to break his food up into small portions to make it SEEM he is getting the same amount.

Also light exercise at first a build up just like a human would.

[abandoning]

i fear my dog passing... he is like a child to me.
but i am glad my daughter will have him to grow up with.
hes a smaller dog so i'm hoping he'll live longer.
He's only a year, I've had him since he was 3 weeks old.

i also have an Akita who is 8 and a Tibetan mastiff who is 7... They're healthy and will be around for a few more years... but they're my moms dogs. I'll still be heart broken when they pass, they were my family's first dogs.

[Pour the Teapot]

oh i have constant nightmares about my dog bolting out the front door and getting hit by a car. it's definitly my worst fear. what i do, is try to put bad thoughts out of my mind, by spending as much time with my dog, and doing all i can to prevent that from happening. yes, i'm a little paranoid whenever someone opens the door, but i always hold her back so i feel better. and i try not to get mad at her even when she's being annoying, because you know, anything could happen.

i know you love your dog as much as possible, but aren't there things you could do to help make your dog feel better? some therapy or meds for the arthritis, and a healthier diet to help him lose a few pounds? these are things you can do to help your dog live a longer, healthier, happier life.

[LunaInTheSun]

It is not weird at all. My dog is basically a member of the family who I love. The though of anything happening to him breaks my heart. and we love him.

If you are concerned about your dogs weight and over all health I think the best bet is going to the vet.

[Wallflower.]

If you're concerned about your dog, I think the best thing for you to do is take him to the vet. Also, take him on walks, don't feed him as many treats or scraps from the table (if you do). If you take little steps to make him healthier then you won't have to worry as much!
And it's completely normal to worry about your pet like that! I know that I do. Pets are a part of the family, if you care about them enough. And it's great that you do care about him so much.