Loss of my first pet

[Blue135]

We have to put my dog down due to health issues. I've had him for 8 years and it's really hard to face it.
I feel physically sick and I feel so sad I feel like I'm at the point of dissociation.

I've never had to deal with loss and I'm finding as hard as one could imagine.

I tend to hide all of my emotions and weaknesses from friends and family. I try my best to change that and talk to people but every time I try I can never go through with it.

I don't want to leave my room because I'll see my dog and I know it's just going to set me off. In my mind it's like if I don't perceive him it won't happen.

I don't know what to do

[Katyonthehamsterwheel]

Hi there

I'm so sorry I can't think of any way to make this easier for you. It is such an awful thing to have to go through, and I dissociated to deal with having to let my first dog go too. Sometimes that's how we manage difficult things.

I know you don't want to look at your dog, but I wonder if putting the focus on him and trying to spend some nice time together before you part will make it gentler on you both? I'm sorry you're finding it hard to reach out to family and friends too. We're here to listen and support if you want to talk.

Kind thoughts, Katy

[Blue135]

thanks you so much katy

Having support from people at the moment is both hard and reassuring.

I agree that spending time with him may be better for me and him and I'm gonna try my best to do that while I can.

Thank you again and I really appreciate you reaching out

[geoff]

Hello Blue, I am truly sorry this happened and you are not in any way overreacting because people get so attached to a dog who understands how you are feeling by the tone of your voice and knows exactly what it means when the lead is brought out of the cupboard and show their excitement.

Your friends and family know that you're trying your hardest to be brave, but deep down they understand that he meant the world to you, because you wouldn't have gone out unless you knew he was feed, had water and his bed was made.

The heart break of having to leave him every time you had your own commitments is always devastating and the enjoyment when you came home is priceless.

I've been through this and it never gets easier, but I suppose the love and enjoyment they provide to us is a memory you will never forget.

This excruciating loss you've had to endure is one we realise that no one else could have had this bond that was so strong, we feel the pain you are going through.

My best.

Geoff.

[Guest_4643]

Hi Blue135, welcome to the forums.

I'm very sorry to hear about your Dog. I've lost Pets myself so I understand how difficult it is. I know this may not help, but your Dog is at peace now, out of their pain etc.

I'm sorry if that's not helpful, I know how hard grieving is for people and pets, and sometimes I just tell myself that.

[anon143]

I’m so sorry you’re going through this, I’ve just had to put my dog down today and I can not stop crying. I hope you are better now

[Guest_4643]

Hi anon143, I'm so sorry.