Emily, I think it's a great idea to approach cycling from a completely different angle to ease yourself back into it. Hang up your road bike for a bit and ride rails-to-trails or mtn bike tracks (carefully!!) to give your heart a lift without all the worry (any black bears in your area?? ). I know EXACTLY how it feels to have that awful cloud of worry hanging over something you love so much - it spoils everything!!!

P.S. I don't think there's a dog-free rural road anywhere in the US. Two jack russells made for me the other day and I left my ride partners behind in the most cowardly display of speed!!