Grief over pet

[JP8810]

I just found out my dog has terminal cancer. Im looking for feedback from people who have lost pets recently and how did you manage the grief?

[Kat_21]

Haven't lost a pet. But my husband has cancer. It's been tough dealing with his diagnosis. I'm sorry about your pet. I know it has to be hard. I'm here if you need a friend.

[JP8810 in reply to Kat_21]

Thank you very much and my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your husband.

[lexi05]

i lost 2 of my dogs within 5 months last year. one had a cancerous tumor that lasted a few months before we had to let her go. it is tremendously hard and devastating to lose a pet. the best thing i can say for you is to remember the good times and memories you made, make their collar into a bracelet, keychain etc as well as their tag so you always have them with you, and know that your pet crossed rainbow ridge and is now safe in heaven with all the other dogs getting tons of treats, toys, rubies and playtime.

[JP8810 in reply to lexi05]

Thank you so much for your kind words

[Reader182]

We lost 2 cats this winter, one 12 and the other 13. I won’t kid you, it was bad. However, we kept talking about the funny things they did and looked through pictures. I know it’s not what you want to hear, but time does help. It took me a couple of weeks to talk about them without crying. Don’t be embarrassed if you do cry - it helps move the pain out. I’m so sorry for what you’re going through.

[JP8810 in reply to Reader182]

Thank you

[kenster1]

hi sorry to hear about your beloved dog.I did find it hard last time around but went out and got another dog.not to replace my other dog but just because dogs/pets are amazing and all of them deserve a loving home.

[Blueruth]

I tried to go to restorative yoga and started bawling and had to leave. That actually helped release some of the pressure. Grief is pretty personal so you may react differently. If he hasn't passed I recommend an in home vet to see him off. I did this for one cat and it was really much better. she was in her environment. The vet had a nice room for my other cat but I had to bring her there when she was totally miserable.

[JP8810]

Good advice. Thanks.

[Serenity_Now1]

I lost both of my dogs to cancer. It's hard and I cried a lot. Both were in their senior years, so I had many great memories with them. I still have their pictures up. I know many people think it's best to get another pet right away, but I chose not to for a while. Hang in there!

[Hidden in reply to Serenity_Now1]

Get another pet when you are good and ready and you will know when you are ready for another pet.

[JP8810]

Thanks for sharing.

[Midori]

A pet becomes part of the family, so the feelings are the same as if you lost a partner or a child.

Unlike a child though, you will need the strength someday, to make the decision to let him go with dignity, before his pain becomes unbearable.

[Hidden]

I’m sorry for your loss. My baby girl passed away June 30, 2020 and I’m still in pain. I don’t have human children. Kacy was my daughter, . time will heal and remembering the good times.Hugs you tight 😍

[JP8810]

They give us such joy and their passing hurts alot! Thanks for your words. Peace to you!

[Hidden]

I'm sorry to hear that your dog has terminal cancer.

We had a black and white cat who had to be put to sleep when she was 22 as she was riddled with cancer and we were all grief stricken for a while but we have her ashes in the house with her photo on them.

It's hard to lose a pet as they are part of the family.

[JP8810 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you for your kind words. Much appreciated.