I received a lovely message from a lady who is trying to cope with her feelings regarding her eldest daughter's move to University, which in turn is causing her dog to become very stressed and anxious. All of which is perfectly natural and appropriate, especially when we know that change, although rarely sought by any being, (as we all like to feel comfortable with where we are and how things go) is one of the only constants in life. 

The only difference between humans and all other creatures is that every other species will soon move on to accept the new situation, whereas humans tend to be thinking 'what if?' 

The way to help your dog is to accept and embrace change, is to recognise that it was something that had to happen and ensure that you show your dog that you are fine with this. Show them that above all you are still there for them. 'Amichien® Bonding' will help you through, providing you with the information needed for you to 'step up to the role of leader' , thereby reassuring your dog that no matter what situation he finds himself in, he can put his trust in you and he will quickly become content. 

I remember so well when my son left for university. On the first cold evening I sat imagining that he was alone, sitting in a cold room eating a bowl of cereal and I wanted to cry. The next evening I just had to phone him and had to do this three times before finally getting him the following evening. I asked how he was coping, bracing myself for the worst only to be told that the bolognaise recipe that I gave him had been a triumph and he had shared it with his new housemates and the only drawback with the room was that it was too warm but he just opened the window. I can assure you that when my daughter's turn came to a couple of years later I took the dogs wise attitude of just face what comes, when it comes and she did just fine too.

So my sincere advice to this lady is to enjoy hearing of her daughter's adventures, achievements and experiences and relax knowing that she has been instrumental in her daughter's ability to spread her wings. 
To relax with her dog and perhaps to have more play time together, spend quality time with her younger daughter and get ready to do it all over again and be as proud of her children's achievements as I am of mine and learn from the animals.

Jan Fennell
5th October 2011