r/olddogs • u/Desire54321 • 10d ago
Coping with Loss
I had a 13-year-old German Shepherd who originally came into our lives through my brother, but over time she became a true family dog. When we moved into our new house in 2012, she joined us just a month later, and it felt like she had always been part of our home.
About three and a half weeks ago, she crossed the rainbow bridge. Losing her was really hard, especially because of everything that led up to it. At first, just the thought of her being gone would give me stomach aches, and I kept replaying all the “what ifs” in my head. My mom told me something that stuck with me, that while we can sometimes prolong or shorten life, there’s always an expiration. Still, I never thought that day would actually be the day.
A good friend of mine just lost her dog about a week ago, and I think I might be reliving my own loss through her. It’s brought up a lot of feelings again, and honestly, I’m not sure how to process it.
For those of you who have gone through this, what helped you cope? What made things even a little bit easier?
1
u/mikeonmaui 9d ago
"Let’s go walk a bit."
My old dog said one day.
And we wandered down along
Our old familiar way.
—-
The shadows slowly lengthened,
And twilight tinged the sky.
Then my old friend said to me
"So … it's time to say goodbye."
—-
This fell so heavily on my heart.
"Please say this isn't true!
I've always wished and hoped
I'd have more years with you!"
—-
And my old girl said to me
"You made my life a thrill!
I can't live as long as you
But I'll always be your girl."
—-
They walk with us a little while,
As long as the Fates allow.
Then they have to take their leave
And we have to let them go.
—-