Many pet owners have had to deal with the pain of losing a dog. Most will agree that it’s difficult, but one thing’s for sure: the pain is not incurable. You will get through it, if you allow yourself to.
You might have to deal with the loss even before your pet’s actual death. This is because the death is inevitable, and the mortality of your furry friend is much shorter than that of a human being. In this case, one way of coping is to accept that fact and do what you can for your senior dog to live a full last few months or years.
Talking to the vet is also appropriate at this point. You can ask about what your older dog is going through. Is your dog in pain? What are the treatment options for your furry friend? These are questions that will need to be answered, and might require a second opinion.
You might also want to take snapshots of your pet as a remembrance, along with your dog’s favorite items. And of course, you should cherish every moment with your pet—go to your favorite places, and bond with your furry friend.
If your pet’s death has become a certainty, you should make arrangements as to where your pet will lie. You should also give your friends and family a last chance to visit your beloved pet. And lastly, be with your pet in the last few moments.
As hard as it is to deal with the mere thought of your pet dying, coping with the actual loss is even harder for many pet owners. After your pet dies, don’t be afraid to let it all out. Cry. You’ve lost your companion, and it’s perfectly okay to mourn the loss of your friendship.
Don’t be afraid to tell others about your loss. Your closest friends and family will understand what you’re going through, and they will be there for you.
The Reality of Losing Your Dog
Remember your pet. Don’t pretend you never had one. Even though it makes you sad, it is best to remember and cherish the memories, not ignore them. It may hurt at first, but it’s the only path to closure, and it’s the only way you’ll ever be able to remember fondly your time with your pet. This is a good time to make a scrapbook or post photos on your blog or homepage. Include pictures, stories, and notes about your pet. Read “The Rainbow Bridge” poem online. It will make you feel better about your loss.
Go on with life. Although losing a pet is very sad, it is no reason to shut yourself up in your house or go into depression. Your pet has always felt comfort in your comfort, and the sooner you get back on track, the sooner you’ll be yourself again.
Consider volunteering at a local animal shelter. While emotionally, you may not be prepared to welcome another pet into your home right away, the act of helping to care for a homeless pet, a pet in desperate need of a caring human, may help with your grieving and sadness. (Read More Here)
These are just some of the healthy ways to deal with your beloved pet’s loss. While there’s no single formula when dealing with your loss, know that there are people who are willing to stay with you. Your pain is not insignificant, and it’s okay to take it slowly.