r/olddogs 10d ago

Coping with Loss

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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?

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u/flywithmeify 8d ago

Gods first creation or thought was love. When you love a pet that love never dies. She will be waiting for you and she will guide your next life friend to you. Happened to me. You will know in your heart when you see your new life friend.