If you could make your pet understand one thing, what would it be?

My dog is an Australian Cattle Dog, a.k.a. a blue heeler. This is an active breed, active 100% of the time. You cannot wear them out. They were bred to chase cattle and sheep all day long. However, my dog, Emmy, is an anomaly. She is active in spurts and is pretty chill most of the time. If you throw the Frisbee, she will run and catch it and bring it back several times, then drop it and wander off or lay under a tree. So, Emmy’s activity level is perfect for me. She loves her toys, and has fun entertaining herself when I’m busy. She is also very loving. She loves everyone, especially children. Her barks alert me when someone has come to the house, and her presence comforts me. She is an amazing dog and a wonderful companion.

But, Emmy has separation anxiety, which has become a problem since my husband, her ever-present buddy, passed away. She hates to be alone. Since I work full-time, she is alone for hours a day. I have started taking her to doggy day care, but I think she would rather be home. She literally bursts through the door and drags the attendant while she runs to me when it’s time to go home.

If I could make Emmy understand one thing, it would be for her to trust that I’ll always come back. I won’t leave her for any longer than I have to. I really wish she knew this and could rest in the knowledge that I’ll be home as soon as possible. Because I love her and I want to be with her, too.