My best friend is a German Shepard too!
Rose:
My shepard is about 15 years old and ill also. I can understand the stress of worrying about a beloved pet while dealing with the nonsense of having an intoxicated person around the house.
Maybe the serenity prayer will help you relax in regard to worrying about your furry family member (We need to accept the fact that some things are out of our hands) Your dog knows you care for him!
There are things we can do to help our pets, and after that point, it is up to God. I just thank Him greatly for giving me my best friend all these years. My dog greeted me every time I came home with a big wagging tail.
My husband greeted me too. Only he was usually drunk and pretty much a mess. So, I understand the impulse to scream at a time like this.
Consider yourself hugged.........