Dealing With the Loss of a Beloved Dog
Our Dogs Leave Their Paw Prints on Our Lives
We all wish our dogs could live forever. Over the course of their lifetimes, we form a special bond with our pets; they become our best friends, our sources of comfort and joy, our activity partners, and our protectors. But there comes a time when we need to say goodbye to our dogs, and no matter how many times we experience this, it never gets easier.
Our dear chocolate lab, Jackson, passed away this week, and we miss him very much. He was a wonderful dog, a wonderful big brother, a champion swimmer, a dock diver, and the face of Pawsitively Pure Dog Food. We are taking our time to mourn and to give extra love to his brothers. If you’re going through a similar loss, we are right by your side. We’ve learned a couple of things that have helped us get through this time of sadness, and we want to pass them along to you.
There is No Wrong Way to Grieve
Your grieving process will be just as unique and personal as your relationship with your dog. Understand that there is no wrong way to grieve. Journaling, scrapbooking, and creating art are all great ways to memorialize your dog while expressing your emotions. Maybe you need some extra company from your family and friends while you go through this period of time, or maybe you’d prefer to spend some extra time reflecting on your own. Choose whatever makes you comfortable and helps you work through sad times.
No matter what route you take, it’s important to keep in mind that your feelings are perfectly valid. In the time your dogs spend with you, no matter how long or short, they become important parts of your family and your heart. Losses like these are never easy to deal with.
Be Affectionate and Attentive to Your Other Pets
Not only can dogs pick up on our emotions, they can also grieve just like we do. If you have other dogs in your home, they are dealing with just the same kinds of feelings that you are. Offer them some extra TLC and take the time to talk with them about their friend. They may not understand every word you say, but they’ll appreciate your care and attention. It may take some time for your pets to adjust to life without your other dog, so be patient with them as you go through this transition together.
Memorialize Your Pet
The memories we make with our dogs last a lifetime. If you’ve had dogs all your life, we’re willing to bet that your memories with your childhood dogs are still just as vivid as they were years ago. Do something special to memorialize your dog and celebrate the good times you had together. As we mentioned above, doing an art project is a great way to express yourself and keep your dog’s memories nearby. Some people preserve their dogs’ collars; others frame pictures of their dogs’ paw prints. You can even host a memorial service and invite the family members and friends who have made memories with your pup.
Another great idea is to use your pets’ legacies to help other pets in need. You could set up a charitable foundation or make donations in your pets’ names to help keep their memories alive.
It’s Ok to Move On
Some pet owners feel guilty for getting another pet after their dog passes away, but it’s so important to understand that it’s ok to move on. It’s perfectly acceptable to bring another dog into your home and create new memories with them. Moving past your grief doesn’t mean you’re replacing your dog – and they would want to know that you’re happy and healthy.
Healing Takes Time
Our hearts go out to you if you’re dealing with grief and sadness over the loss of your dog. As the saying goes, “time heals all wounds;” give yourself time to work through your emotions and you will make it past this difficult time. Take care of yourself and your other pets, and always keep your dog’s memories close.