What are the Puppy Blues?

**SPEAKER_1** (0:00)
This episode is brought to you by Facebook.
So you were scrolling on Marketplace, and there it was, the bike you'd been searching for. You sent a message, and it turned out the seller was super chatty, kind of funny, and an avid cyclist. The next thing you know, you're in a cycling crew. Well, a community cycling group. The thing about Facebook, you might find more than what you're looking for. From a browse to a bike ride, this summer, find more on Facebook.

**SPEAKER_2** (0:31)
This episode is brought to you by Welch's Fruit Snacks. Back-to-school season can be tough on parents, but choosing a snack you and your kids can both get behind doesn't have to be. Stock up on Welch's Fruit Snacks, made with whole fruit, and now made with no artificial dyes.
It's a snack kids already love, and one you can feel good about giving them. Go back to school with Welch's Fruit Snacks, now made with no artificial dyes.

**Bababam** (1:03)
What are the Puppy Blues?
Thanks for asking.
You've no doubt already heard of the Baby Blues, a nice sounding euphemism for the rather unpleasant postpartum depression. Well, some new pet owners have started talking of Puppy Blues in the same way, to describe the sadness they sometimes feel after adopting a new fairy companion.
The Puppy Blues might be behind increased animal abandonment rates during the summer. Additionally, Fortune magazine reported a week ago that many Americans are surrendering their pets now the time has come to return to the office. Wow, that's pretty cruel. What is it like having the Puppy Blues? You might find yourself in tears looking at your puppy, despite how undeniably cute and Instagramable they are. You feel stressed, depressed and overwhelmed by the idea of having to take care of your baby. You feel like you've made the biggest mistake of your life. Right, don't panic. Leaving your pet on the side of the road isn't the solution. Having the Puppy Blues is nothing to be ashamed of. It's totally normal to feel that way, even if people don't often discuss it. In reality, what you're feeling is the pressure brought on by a new companion arriving in your home. Adopting a pet means big changes to your lifestyle and daily routine, like leaving doors open or closed at night, sleeping through barking sounds, being followed throughout the day, and having to go out every few hours for toilet needs. Furthermore, there are additional financial responsibilities. Food, vet visits, vaccinations and toys don't come for free after all. That can certainly add to new dog owners' stress levels. Sometimes, the Puppy Blues come from over-excitement prior to the adoption due to idealization. What can I do to get more confident about being a pet owner? In a National Geographic article, American journalist Liz Krieger described the rule of three which animal behavior experts have identified. Following their arrival, it generally takes three days for the dog's stress levels to come down, not to mention the owners, three weeks for them to get used to their new surroundings, and three months to finally feel at home. There is more and more animal content out there on how to raise pets. Pet forums are full of good advice too from experts and fellow owners. In the internet age, there's no excuse for not giving your new companion the best living environment possible. If all else fails, you can reach out to a professional for guidance.
There you have it.
Now you know what the Puppy Blues are. In under three minutes, we answer your questions. What would you like to know about? Use the comment section to ask your questions on the podcast platform.