National Love Your Pet Day

By Leanne Moulton (Chief Academy Officer)

Working in self harm and suicide prevention means that, as an organisation, my colleagues and I spend a great deal of time holding space for pain, complexity and distress. It is deeply meaningful and rewarding work, but it can also be incredibly emotive. On the days when everything feels a little too much, I am very lucky to go home to my two small dachshunds.

Kevin and Colin (my sausage dogs) don’t know what my job title is. They don’t know about policies, safeguarding, self harm or suicide prevention. What they do know is when I need to sit down, slow down and focus on something simple.

In suicide prevention work, we talk a lot about the importance of active listening. Kevin and Colin are excellent at this. They sit with me without needing explanations or solutions. There is something profoundly regulating about quiet companionship, just having the permission to exist without having to perform or fix anything.

On harder days, mental health can distort how we see ourselves. My dogs don’t see me as replaceable or failing; they see me as their person. The one who opens the door, fills the bowls and throws the toy just one more time. Being needed in such a pure and uncomplicated way is grounding and, honestly, lifesaving in its own small but powerful way.

Pets are not a substitute for professional support but they are a protective factor. They bring connection, routine, affection and moments of joy. For me, they are a daily reminder that care can be simple, love can be steady, and staying and just being there no matter what helps.

This National Love Your Pet Day, I’m grateful for my two sausage dogs and everything they give me: muddy paws, loud snoring, unconditional love, and a reason to keep showing up. If you have a pet who supports your mental health, I hope you take a moment today to thank them, give them a cuddle and maybe give them an extra treat or two.