Vota Posted March 14, 2020 Report Share Posted March 14, 2020 I don’t really post on much of anything but in looking for resources I found this forum so here we go. My service dog elsie has been with me since late childhood, and has been an essential part of my life. I see her as my closest friend, and as she gets older I can’t help but feel the overwhelming feelings to come when she passes. I have no idea how I’m going to cope with her actual passing of the grief already hurts so much. I’m at a loss, I really am, any advice would be appreciated. Thanks 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MartyT Posted March 15, 2020 Report Share Posted March 15, 2020 My dear, your concerns are understandable and I appreciate your willingness to think about the passing of your beloved service dog now, before you are faced with the reality of it, and while you have time to plan ahead. You've asked for whatever advice we can offer, and for starters I invite you to read these articles, in hopes that they will give you some of the understanding and guidance you are seeking. Note that links to additional readings are listed at the base of each: Pet Loss: Is It A Different Kind of Grief? Anticipating the Death of A Cherished Pet Pet Loss: Death of A Service Dog Pet Euthanasia: When Is It Time to Say Goodbye? 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kayc Posted March 15, 2020 Report Share Posted March 15, 2020 I wrote my journey with my dog Arlie's cancer and subsequent passing, in Living With Loss (Loss of Pet section). It shares the kind of emotions, fears, etc. you face. It was the hardest decision I've ever made to have him euthanized. He was my constant companion and of ten dogs I've owned, the one by far I was the closest to...I called him my soulmate in a dog. I want you to know you will survive it when the time comes, but it is not easy. Everyone grieves differently...I am still grieving him seven months later. My son brought me a puppy before Christmas and it has helped....it is not the same as having Arlie and I still grieve, love and miss my Arlie, but I've fallen in love with my little puppy too...they hold different places in my heart, one never replaces another but it can help the void some. What you are feeling is anticipatory grief, which is a lot of what I shared, as well as dealing with his death afterwards. I'm sorry for what you're going through and pray for comfort and peace with you in the time ahead. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now