Dealing With Dog Loss
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We love our dogs and when they leave us due to old age or illness, it can be devastating. Whether there is advance notice of the pending loss or not, it’s hard. It can be especially hard on children and single folks who depend on their dog’s companionship.
If you find that you aren’t mentally prepared for that inevitable moment, it can hit you like a ton of bricks. This is compounded when the loss is sudden and without much warning or none at all. If you are facing this difficult time, here are a few things to remember when you are dealing with this kind of grief.
Take a break and get away. Sometimes it is best to take a small break and get away, even if it is for the weekend. Find a quiet place to rest and grieve. If you have to do this alone then do it. When you return home, you might feel a little bit better.
Just cry! Venting our emotions helps us acknowledge how we really feel. By knowing how deep our pain is we can begin to deal with it. The sooner you move through grief, the sooner you can begin to heal.
Share your feelings about your dog. Your dog was a one-of-a-kind, and no other dog is going to be exactly the same as the one you just lost. If it helps you feel better, you can keep some of their things like jewelry, or dog collars. Or perhaps you can keep a picture, or their favorite toy. You might be one of those people that need to get rid of all their personal belongings because it is too painful. If that is you, it is ok. Everyone grieves differently. Sometimes talking about your dog with other people is can be very healing. Many people that do this seem to be able to cope with the loss much better.
You can’t replace your best friend but you can develop a new relationship with a new friend. Yes, I’m suggesting a new dog which may seem odd at first. But give it a chance with all new dog accessories - a fresh start with a happy, friendly face can have you move through your grief much quicker than you can imagine.
Know that time does lessen the depth of the wound. Nothing makes the loss go away altogether but the pain softens and we move forward positively with our lives. Time will not erase your memories so don’t be afraid to move forward.
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