It Hurts When Your Dog Passes Away

When You Are Grieving The Loss of Your Dog

There have been studies to confirm the loss of a beloved pet is just as traumatic as the loss of a beloved human; in fact, at times it can be more devastating for those of us who are single, childless or empty nesters.

Preparing yourself for the onslaught of grief is over-rated! When a loss occurs, it is difficult to prepare for the physical and emotional upheaval that results. Losing a pet, especially, means the loss of unconditional and non-judgmental love and devotion: A companion who is always accessible and available and focused on you, the caregiver.

In the beginning, grief can take the form of a massive bottomless crater. The intensity can be overwhelming. It is important to give yourself permission to go through the process of grieving knowing, eventually, there will be another side to your feelings.

Memorializing your pet for posterity is a release. Resting, acupuncture, good nutrition, exercising, attending support related groups, receiving individual therapy, talking, writing, singing and painting are all activities which can help to alleviate some of the sting.
Society often does not recognize the need for bereaved pet owners to express grief openly. Pet owners often feel isolated and alone. Recently, more resources are becoming available to help the bereaved pet owner realize that they are NOT alone and that what we are feeling is entirely normal.

After losing Puma a couple of months ago, I reached out to find a pet grief group in our area; only to discover the existence of ONE which meets one time per month and is 45 minutes away.

In the beginning, grief can take the form of a massive bottomless crater.

With the intensity of the grief I was experiencing, this was not an acceptable solution. As a result, I started a pet grief group in our immediate geographic area. The group meets every other week. Just the exercise of organizing the group has been therapeutic.

After mustering up some courage, I also signed up to volunteer at a shelter with the stipulation the work needed to be administrative and not interactive with the animals. Who knew this particular shelter houses dogs in every office and room!! The minute I entered the facility, I locked eyes with a little guy behind the reception desk. That was all she wrote! Talk about therapeutic! Even though my passion is focused on BIG dogs, the only small thing about this guy is his legs!! Welsh Corgi’s legs are about 5”!! The rest of him is BIG in every way.

Unfortunately, he is too small to replace Puma as our main model for the Tailored Dog collection. The apparel, for the time being, is designed for BIG dogs as few items are available for them.

Remember, just because a dog is BIG does not mean it is warm!
When the temperatures dip and the wind howls and the ice forms, PLEASE protect seniors and short-haired dogs, especially, from the elements.

Visit Tailored Dog to see unique BIG dog apparel to keep your best friend comfortable this winter. While they can provide you unconditional love, you can assure their comfort and provided them protection; one solution to prolong anything related to grieving!

Rita Green is the founder and CEO of TailoredDog.com, An online store where you can purchase high quality, practical and well made clothing for your big dog. Rita created a line of  raincoats, sweaters and hats to protect her ChowChow mixed Puma from the elements.

Puma recently passed away and leave a legacy for all bid dogs: A beautiful line of practical clothing that big dogs will love to wear.

Tags: grieving your dog