What are the best ways to cope with the grief of losing a beloved dog?

I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Mattie. Losing a pet can be one of the hardest things to go through. There are a few things that may be able to help. Many veterinary clinics (and some local animal shelters) do offer grief counseling for the loss of a pet, as well as support and craft groups that allow owners to share their stories, and even create memorials for their pets. If that is not available, speaking with a counselor or therapist in your area may also help so that you do not have to go through this on your own. There are also resources online such at The Rainbow Bridge, where you can chat with and share stories with other owners which may help you to remember the good times you had with Mattie, instead of the sorrow over her loss. It sounds like Mattie was very loved and well cared for during her time with you, and she likely loved you just as much.

I am terribly sorry to hear about your loss, I can only imagine how heartbroken you are. I advise to neuter pets all the time, and it is the right decision to take because it saves them a lot of suffering as they get older. Don't blame it on yourself, you just chose the best for him and he knows it. Dogs are very very special and they sense everything, he knows he was very loved and that's why you all miss him so much. The pain will not go away, will change over the course of time. In my case spending time outside, walking, embracing my family helped me gradually feel better, which felt impossible in the beginning. I know it feels impossible now, but give yourself time. Sending you love from the other side of the world.

I'm so sorry you had to say goodbye to Odis! He was a handsome boy. It's never easy to have to say goodbye to a beloved pet, but it did sound like he was quite sick. By letting him go, you took away his pain and discomfort, which is a great gift. He's at peace now, no long suffering, and you should know you did the right thing for him. I'm sure he loved you, and try to remember all the good times you had with it. It's so painful now, but over time, the pain will ease. You will always love him and miss him, but keep the memories of him close with you. I hope this helps.

I am so sorry to hear about Scooby. You did everything you could do, he was just too sick. You might find it helpful to write him a letter- it has been very therapeutic for me in the past. I hope his memory keeps you smiling for many years to come. Thinking of you. Take care.

First off, I'm very sorry you lost your ex! It must be hard on you, so please accept my condolences for your loss. In terms of Rico, the best thing you can do for him is give him lots of love. I agree that he may know your ex is gone, and he probably is reacting to your emotions as well in terms of the loss. Spend a lot of time loving on him, playing with him, and giving him a ton of attention. This will help him through this tough time. While dogs do mourn, it typically doesn't last long, but I always recommend extra special attention when someone important from their life is gone. Best of luck, I hope this helps and again I'm sorry for your loss.

I am so sorry you lost Ned, but you did the right thing. Meningitis happens in dogs just as it happens in children and adults and sometimes it is so severe that the affected people or dogs die. It happens. It is terrible, but it is not something you could have avoided. We have no vaccine for dog meningitis, so you would not have been able to protect him with a vaccine. He could have picked up the bug anywhere. There is no way you can keep a dog in a sterile bubble and protect him from everything. It would not be a good life for the dog either. You did everything possible to give him a good life, and you took care of him when he was ill. You went all out and you gave him your love. You did not let him down. He had far more love and care than most dogs in this world. Grieve for him and remember him. Some day another dog will find you and will deserve you. Thank you for being such nice doggie parents.

Here at Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach we are very sorry for your loss. We are glad to hear that we were able to help you with him. Please let us know if you ever need anything else from us. We will be thinking of you as you go through this difficult time.