Has anyone every lost a pet? How do you handle their passing?

[SherlockandWatson96]

I just found out this morning that my dog might be put down today. He’s been getting old but as of last night he couldn’t eat, drink or go to the bathroom unassisted. He also seems to be having issues with his back leg too. I knew this was coming, but I didn’t think it would happen so soon. He had a good life but i always thought it could be better. Ive know this is coming for a long time and I have been reminiscing on good times with him so maybe I’ve processed some of this already. I don’t know, I haven’t had any strong reactions and I know I should be incredibly sad. Does this happen to anyone? I guess I worry that the grief will all hit at the same time and I’ll be a mess. How did you handle your pets death? 

thanks for listening

[tmas]

Im so sorry that you are facing this situation - I lost my family dog last year and it was absolutely heartbreaking. She was in a similar situation and I was comforted know that it was the most humane decision. Her passing was peaceful and I still have moments of sadness, but more so I can remember her at her best. She was well loved, as I’m sure your pet is too. Lots of love, the grief is hard but a little easier to move through when you remember the love an happy memories with them xx

[SherlockandWatson96]

Thank you so much for reaching out. We ended up having to put him to sleep. Since we found out i’ve been between 2 feelings. Being numb and balling my eyes. Is that a normal feeling? I get into my head too much and worry that could lead to some bad depression. I’ll always remember the happy memories with him. He was my best friend. 

[james1]

Hello SherlockandWatson96,

I'm really sorry to hear about your dog's passing last Thursday. I have lost quite a few pets and none of them were easy. I think it's very normal to feel the way you have described, as your dog obviously meant so much to you. As you say, he was your best friend.

I don't think there's a best way to handle a pet's death, other than just let ourselves grieve in whatever way we find most helpful. Personally, I tidied up their space and moved their things to the garage. Then at some point I went through photos to see which ones I'd want to print and keep. It's always really hard, but I suppose that's my way of moving forward while also being able to cherish the memories.

I hope you are managing okay.

James

[sbella02]

SherlockandWatson96,

Thank you for being so open and vulnerable with us, I warmly welcome you to the forums. Goodness, I'm so sorry to hear about your dog's passing.

Grief from the passing of a pet is a unique kind of grief, in my opinion. Pets add so much value to our lives, as we do theirs. I lost my cat just over two years ago now, and my dog about ten years ago, so I can definitely understand how you're feeling. As much as it may hurt to remember, reminiscing can be a good way of managing grief, as can journalling, which is always my go-to whenever I'm processing difficult feelings.

As James1 has said, there's no right or wrong way to process grief, just the way that feels most natural to us. For some people, this may be putting time and energy into hobbies like art. For me, it's journalling. It depends on what feels right, and what we feel we need to do in order to allow ourselves to express our feelings. 

I wish you all the best in this situation. Just know that you don't have to struggle alone, and confiding in loved ones can be another good way of coping. 

Take care, and remember that it's okay to grieve. SB

[jaz28]

Hi there,

I lost one of my childhood dogs earlier this year and it was heartbreaking. He was old so we knew it would happen eventually, but her also declined fast. He was internally bleeding from a tumour so the vet said the best way was to put him down. It was actually devastating - I think I cried for a good 2-3 days and there was an empty feeling to the house for a while. We still have one more dog, and it was sad to see her missing her companion too. 

Unfortunately, it sucks that humans outlive dogs, but it is something we accept when we decide to bring them into our loving homes. It sounds like you have given him the best life possible and that's all you can do. I was upset for a while, but after a few weeks, I felt better and just reminisced on the happy times. I still miss him but I am glad he is doggy heaven now and not in pain! It is just a part of life x

Jaz xx

[SherlockandWatson96]

Hi James 

Sorry for the late reply. That you so much for responding. Those all seem like really great ideas. Now that it’s passed a little bit I’ve had time to come to terms with it a little more. I kept his favourite toy and I’ve been able to talk about all the good times with him with friends and family and it’s made it so much easier. 

[SherlockandWatson96]

Thanks so much. I’ve definitely realised talking about it helps and all my hobbies keep me busy and relaxed. 

[SherlockandWatson96]

Hi Jaz

Thanks for that. When things like this happen all I feel is alone so it’s good to know I’m not the only one feeling this way.