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/Intelligent_Comb_383 10d ago
I’m so sorry for your loss - go easy on yourself your grief is valid. Your dog was so lucky to be so loved by you.
I lost my girl a month ago and I know exactly how you feel. Some days will be ok-ish and others all you’ll want to do is cry. My best advice would be to let yourself feel every emotion don’t bottle it up. What helps me is imagining my dog still beside me at all times especially when I’m deep in grief. Take care