Because I no longer have the time to moderate the blog comments, I have set the blog to where it will close off any post older than 30 days for any new comments.
I’m sorry for the inconvenience, but I am going through quite a bit of soul-searching on blog and where I want to go with it. I have changed my mind about many issues on the blog, and I have also found errors. I am tempted to do an errata post, but I am resisting it. Let’s just leave things as they are.
You may have noticed that there are fewer dog posts in recent months, and as it stands right now, I am no longer writing dog-related posts.
Of course, this decision is subject to change.
Dogs themselves will always have my deep admiration and fascination, but the world of “dog people” has taken its toll on me.
I was diagnosed with depression last year, and as I’ve looked at things that could set off an episode, it turns out that regular pugilism on online fora is one of the worst triggers.
One cannot write about dogs without engaging in this sort of combat.
So I’ve stopped writing about them. I still have my ideas about dogs, which I am more than happy to discuss with you, but I just cannot continue producing dog posts like I once did.
Maybe I will change my mind.
No.
I know I will change my mind at some point.
But for right now, the main focus is going to be wildlife.
I have two trail cams out right now– solely to produce content for this blog.
So that’s what to look forward to.
Scottie, I hope a rest in whatever form you choose will help you do whatever other projects you choose to take on. Thanks for all the work you’ve put into your blog. I’ll be looking forward to future posts.
So sorry to hear about your decision to not post any more blogs on dogs, I loved reading them and more importantly learnt so much in the process especially about the genetic side of things.
However, I totally understand how difficult it is to cope with depression, as I too have to live with this awful illness and on top of that, you are then trying to deal with idiots on forums, certainly does not help. I agree that you have to get rid of the triggers in your life which can set off a major episode (for me it was to exclude my mother and siblings from my life) and now my life although in many ways is very difficult it is far more peaceful and the triggers that set off my illness are no longer there. I am hoping that one day I can say I no longer have this illness, but at least the illness is now controllable.
I can only hope that you will find a measure of peace in your life also and that the people around you are giving you support and understanding. I’m sure your beautiful golden dog will help you, and walking out with Miley each day will help you in so many ways.There is a saying I love:
‘Courage doesn’t always ROAR, sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says ‘I’ll try again tomorrow’.
Be strong and stay safe dear friend.
I so understand, Retrieverman. I think that the dog world is currently very depressing and those of us with depression have a greater toll taken on us than many. I have always read your blog with interest and often, fascination.
I love the duck posts. Your dog posts are wonderful and the dog world needs you, though that may be hard to stomach at the moment. Please keep writing anything. You are appreciated.
Britain Hill
“I was diagnosed with depression last year, and as I’ve looked at things that could set off an episode, it turns out that regular pugilism on online fora is one of the worst triggers”
YES. Definitely understand that!
Please keep posting photos.
I am so sad to hear that!!!! I am also a dog blogger and I am fighting the same as you are – also been depressed.
Do not let them get sown. You write for the people who love your writing! Just turn the commenta off and do not go to the fora!!!! Hatera will always hate, it is what they do, but you create! Do not stop because of the few destructive primitives! Please.
Hey Scottie,
I wish you the very best in whatever you do with this blog. But remember, that opponents will be there on whatever you post on this blog.
To have opposition is a bliss for it makes your website popular, albeit for reasons you don’t want.
I have posted lot of contentious material on my own blog. I do receive hate messages on my email, but never so in the form of comments on my blogs.Gosh, I would have loved to received nasty posts on my blogs to keep me on my toes.
Btw, wildlife observation will definitely keep you healthy.
Cheers!
{{{{Scottie}}}}
A lady whos blog I was reading refered to some posters as “one-eyed feral barncats”. Yes,yes they were.
I enjoy your ducks and wildlife cameras,I always learn something.
As a person suffering from depression and anxiety I understand where you are coming from. Our furry partners can help us cope and I hope you decide to come back full steam. Thank you so much for all your posts; future, past, and present.
Maybe this will cheer you up
Best wishes to you, Scottie. Live YOUR life