losing my soul dog

aivilo45

Hi all,

In march of this year, I lost my soul dog. He was my absolute world and everyday since I feel a piece of me is missing. Home does not feel like home anymore, I just feel so empty inside without him. I went through really bad depression from 2016-2020 and he was my absolute everything. He just knew I was not okay and was just there for me. At the start of this year I was diagnosed with many chronic health issues and before and after the hospital, he did not leave my side.

I miss going on walks with him, I miss cuddling him on the couch, I miss having him sleep by my side, I miss my best friend.

I have tried talking to my parents about another dog, as I believe it would help not only me but also the three of us, as over the last few years we have experienced many losses, and I just think it would be ice to have some extra company in the house, as well as a new best friend. They don't seem to keen on the idea as they want to travel a lot more, but I would like to have one so as when they do travel I have some company at home.

Life this year has just felt..... sad. I just feel like a lot in my life has fallen apart this year. Especially since my boy passed. My psych agrees another dog would be good for me, but I just can't talk to my parents about it.

They keep asking me whats wrong and why im flat but i cant be bothered saying its because I feel empty since losing my boy and would like another to bring some light into my life and fill that empty void.

Nelly-Kelly2

I’m so sorry that you’ve been through this, I know too well the feelings and emotions you are experiencing. I could never have children so I bought my soulmate Pippa who was everything to me. When I had no one, she was there,I It is very tough still is after 4 years. I really feel for you but I know in time, if you do decide to get another little companion, although it won’t be the same in time it will bring joy to your world again. You’re allowed to grieve so take as much time as you need to do that. It will get a bit easier in time just look after yourself and be kind to yourself. I know it’s hard to do at the moment but be strong. I hope that helps you a little bit.

Itwillgeteasier

Hi aivilo45,

So sorry for your loss.

I have experienced a similar situation.

The reason was also not to get a dog because of travel.

I fostered for AWLO,it was a fantastic salve for my soul,plus I was helping someone else out.

When are your travels?Please try and talk to your parents,they obviously care because they are asking you what is wrong.Also can you try doing a share care,ie you look after someone else's dog and they look after yours when U both do holidays?

I hope you put your best efforts into filling that giant hole.All the best.

ABC01

Dear aivilo45,

This year I lost my soul cat unexpectedly. I can empathise with the loss of such an important loved one and how them missing from your daily routine and life can be so incredibly hard. There is the first loss of them and then the secondary losses of the things you did with them in life, like taking walks and cuddles when you’re having a bad day. Somehow they ingrain themselves into every aspect of our lives,so when they leave, the abruptness of the cut off can be quite intense. Home is particularly hard, because they were the reason home became a safe haven. Because they were there looking after us,as we looked after them. I too have found my home,just a house this year. Sometimes when I go out to do my grocery shopping, I find myself not wanting to come back home. Because they aren’t waiting for me and so happy to see I have returned. Life is lonely without them,as they knew me better than any other human did. They walked beside me through some very tough times.

I think it is great that you have come to a place where you feel you are ready for a companion dog again. They would bring you the light you are looking for. And that your psych agrees with you is a great thing too.

Perhaps if you can’t tell your parents why a dog would be a good idea, can you write a pros and cons list, maybe with your psych if you can’t do it alone. And present that to your parents.

Outlining how a dog would bring your mental health up, company at home making it a place you want to be, the company for when they travel. Even you taking on full responsibility of the animals care,so they know they can travel. You can explain that a dog opens up opportunities to be social in the community through dog walking groups or the dog park. And most of all, that you have alot of love and kindness inside you and are ready to love again. That you have a void and that it can be filled by a new dog. The only cons maybe the expense of an animal and that they will eventually pass too. Perhaps you could also outline that it will not replace your soul dog, but it will create a new love inside your heart and their’s too.

It is spring,so lots of animals are being born. They need homes. As well as older animals who are waiting for someone to see them and be invited into a loving family.

Getting a new furry family member is an emotional one, but the decision is a practical one. If your parents need convincing, and for your benefit the most, they made need more than a few conversations to convince them, without showing them your true feelings.

You spoke so well in your post, conveying your thoughts and feelings.

Please talk again if you need to and let us know if you do find a new family member.

All the best sincerely,

ABC01