Adopting a pet can bring joy and companionship, but it can also lead to a type of exhaustion that feels similar to burnout. This condition, sometimes referred to as "puppy blues," affects new pet owners and is marked by feelings of fatigue, sadness, and difficulty getting out of bed. According to a study by Hill’s Pet Nutrition and Toluna-Harris Interactive, about 20 percent of pet owners have experienced this kind of exhaustion, but it is more common among those aged 18 to 34, with 37 percent of them saying that caring for a pet drains them mentally and physically. This group often views their pets as family members, adding to the emotional and practical weight of ownership. Inès, who has owned a dog since she was 31, describes the stress of managing her dog’s needs, including scheduling her time carefully to avoid leaving him alone and ensuring he remains entertained. She also mentions the financial strain of hiring a dog sitter during holidays. These daily challenges can contribute to a sense of being overwhelmed, especially when combined with the emotional bond many people feel toward their pets. Romane, who adopted a cocker spaniel over a year ago, recalls the early weeks of ownership as extremely stressful. She had to isolate herself from friends and family to focus on training her dog and was anxious about his health. At one point, she even asked her family for help. She believes she began to feel the early signs of burnout after bringing her dog home. Her experience is not unique—37 percent of young adults in the same age group feel the same way, according to the study. Experts like veterinarian Dr. Laëtitia Barlerin note that while there hasn’t been a significant rise in burnout-related consultations, the "puppy blues" are becoming more commonly recognized. She compares this condition to the "baby blues" experienced by new parents and notes that it is especially common among dog owners who may have idealized the experience of pet ownership. Many are unprepared for the time, effort, and emotional labor required to raise and train a pet. However, despite the challenges, the bond between pet and owner often grows stronger after this initial period of adjustment.