How do I get my sister to understand?

Question

I'm 15 and terrified of dogs; due to a traumatic event when I was 3. Because of my phobia it's hard for me to walk on my own. So many people have dogs now-a-days that I get nervous and paranoid when I leave the house. I can and will walk on my own, I have a couple routes that I'm comfortable with, but, understandably, I prefer to walk with others.

I decided to go for a walk everyday, just for exercise, and convinced my sister to go with me.

but my sister is only 7, and she doesn't understand exactly how extreme my fear is. When we walk and she sees a dog she'll call it (jokingly). Or sometimes she says things like, "Lets walk back on that side of the street so you have to pass that dog again"

and I know none of that stuff is major, or anything to get worked up about, but she does it all the time and I hate that she doesn't understand.

My older brother used to go for walks with me all the time, but he graduated and now I'm getting used to walking with my sister instead, so I'll be prepared when my brother leaves. He always understood. He was always there to protect me- and my sister isn't.

I need someone I can rely on, not someone who frequently threatens to buy a mean dog and make it attack me whenever I visit, (when she grows up of course).

How do I get her to understand?

Answer 1

you can let your experience and ideas of the heart to tell her , i think you must out of the shadows , don't fear dog .

Answer 2

She maybe thinks she is helping you to get over your phobia. I understand you've had a bad experience, but the quicker you can pull through it, the more full a life you will lead. You need to understand that Humans are at the top of the food chain. You truly have nothing to fear. For the most part, dogs are harmless. They are incredible friends, and will always be happy to see you.

Answer 3

Obviously, a young girl like your sister wouldn't be able to understand much about this kind of stuff dealing with phobias and such. I would suggest inviting a friend to walk with you instead. I don't exactly know how you can get your little sister to understand, sorry. :(

Answer 4

I believe just talking to her about it, and trying to explain to her about your fear will work best. Maybe get your brother to help you before he leaves, and ask him to join you to talk to your younger sister about it. At the age of seven, they won't understand much, but if you just explain to her how serious this is, and how bad your phobia is, then maybe she'll understand. Maybe your parents could also help in explaining to her about how uncomfortable you feel around dogs?

Answer 5

shes a girl/woman...they never understand anything, not even themselves