An animal’s dependence deserves steady care rather than occasional displays of affection.

Affection is the easy part, and it tends to arrive when you are in the mood for it. What an animal actually needs is the dull regular version: the walk on the cold night, the medication on time, the fresh water, the vet visit you would rather postpone. Enthusiasm is pleasant for you. Reliability is what keeps them well.

Look at which parts of their care depend on your mood and put those on a schedule instead. Pick the one you most often skip and fix that one this week.