How to Let Go of a Senior Dog

The death of a senior dog might be expected, but it also might be unexpected. Regardless, you as the owner need to experience letting go of your dog. This can be a very difficult and sensitive process.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Talk with family and friends about your loss. Tell people about your senior dog's death, and talk about why you're grieving and have them help you work through the pain.
2. Go to a grief counselor. This is not unreasonable. A grief counselor for pets can help you work through your loss. They know how to handle these situations and can help you with a sensitive and caring nature.
3. Listen to members of your family. Everyone else in your family is grieving too. They all need someone to talk to, so it's important that you listen to what they have to say and give them the comfort they need to help ease their pain and yours.
4. Take your time with the post-death decisions. If your dog's death came suddenly and unexpectedly, take your time in making decisions about cremation or burial and the process of death. You may take the body of your senior dog to your vet immediately, and they can hold it for a few days while you make decisions about what you want to do with the body. Think through this process, and don't make hasty decisions.
5. Read about other people's pet death issues. There are many books and articles written about people's stories about their pets dying. You can gain comfort through these articles and books.
6. Keep things in perspective. Keep in mind that dogs almost always die before their owners do. So it's important for you to understand that every day you spent with your friend is a gift.