Still can't get over my dog's death?

Question

My 12 yr old White West Highland Terrier had to be put asleep for getting deadly sick maybe about a month ago, but I'm still so sad. We had her for so long and I think that's why I can't stop but think about her. Some people think "oh it's just a dog", but she was like a friend to me, and sometimes I think I can still hear her little feet clicking on the floor when I come home, and it drives me nuts! Is there anything I can do to foget about it? =(

Answer 1

You'll never forget, but hopefully in time it won't hurt so bad and you'll have fond memories. I can relate to having canine companions that are like family. They become an important part of our lives and are defintely missed when they leave us.

This poem, although it always makes me teary, it also makes me smile...maybe it will bring you some comfort as well. I hope your heart heals soon...your precious friend will always be with you (in your heart).

"Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown..."

Answer 2

My friend's dog died unexpectedly at the age of 3 last summer from a freak accident. It was a very sad time for my whole circle of friends and to be honest with you I can't say I have even gotten over it yet. The thing that seemed to help us has been talking about Chico a lot and keeping him in our minds. It was hard at first but now we can all laugh about the things he did and we will be coming up on the anniversary of his death next month. I am sure we will all get together and say a little something for him. I know I may sound crazy but we are all big time dog lovers and they really aren't "just dogs" they are our friends, our children and our families.

Hope this helped some.

Answer 3

First let me say how sorry I am to hear about the loss of your beloved pet. Second of all she was not just a dog. She was a part of your family. You will go through the same grieving process as you would if you lost a human family member. So ignore these people. You have a right to your feelings. You still hear here because you miss her so much and wish she was still with you. This is normal. You will never forget about her. But talking to others can ease the hurt. It will get easier and hurt less eventually. I know. I have been in your position many times. Hang in there and remember that you are not alone.

Answer 4

im here for you. My Grandmas dog was around for 17 years. Yeah she died the same way as yours. Hey! Maybe they became friends in doggy heaven! :D I love that sound of their cute, small, little, claws on the floor too!
why would you want to forget about her? If you loved her like a friend i think you should keep her in your thoughts. You sound just like me when my grandmas dog had to get put to sleep because she was blind and couldnt hear very much, also she was getting sick... so it was time. That was a year ago, She died 6 days before her birthday, which made it even sadder. Don't worry, im fine now, it just takes time. It was a month ago right? It took me, idk...3 months? Just keep her collar maybe, and where it as a bracelet! I did that for 2 months actually.

Hope some of this helps, i know exactly how you feel. :)

Answer 5

Aww, im very sorry about that. I have a West Highland White Terrier as well. She is 3 years old. I would be very upset as well if that happened to my dog. My dog is like my best friend too. I know exactly how you feel. I would say just try and remember the good times you had with her and buy a westie stuffed animal and sleep with it to remind you of your dog. It will feel like she is still right there beside you. Her spirit will always be with you and as long as you keep her in your heart, she will be there for eternity.

Answer 6

Don't ever forget about your dog okay? Don't ever listen to anyone that says "its just a dog". My dog Copper (golden retriever) died a year ago at 10 years old. He had cancer in the spleen, we spent alot of money the last year of his life removing the cancer and such. But of course it came back. The day that he had to be put to sleep, I had to watch him suffer for awhile. I had come home, and copper collapsed in front of the door & peed everywere. I couldn't get him up & started crying. Eventually I got a towl around him & helped him walk to the car. When I got him to the vet he was very limp, I knew it was the last day i'd ever see my baby again. I just couldn't accept the fact this would be the last time i'd ever see him. I said my goodbye, and they took him into the back to put him to sleep. I've never cried so hard in my life. He was my first dog ever, i begged for a dog when I was 10, finally my parents gave in & we got copper as a pup. Its been over a year now & this may sound stuiped but I still cry once in a while because I can't let go, I don't think I ever will. There is far too many memories to keep ahold off and I will continue to love that dog for the rest of my life. Don't ever forget about your dog and he wont ever forget about you :)

Answer 7

I'm sorry to hear about your loss.
This is normal I had a dog for about 14 years and seh died froma massive heart attck.
Fro several years i would think I could hear her or sometimes I would swear I would see her.
Not to actually replace your westie but I found getting another dog helped ease teh pain i had a new pup that needed me and even though I still remember my little baby I have somethign that keeps me busy I would think your dog would appreciate seeing you giving another dog a good home and loving it as she was loved.
Good luck it just takes time.
You are the only one that knows if you can handle another dog.

Answer 8

I'm sorry to say, only time. Our spitz was 12 1/2 when he started having strokes. The meds did not take care of his pain so we had to have him put down too. It hurts sooo bad. I fixed one of these photo frames that has a lot of spaces that are different sizes and made it all about him. It's hanging where we see it daily . That actually helps, looking at photos that have good memories. Good luck and don't feel silly about mourning the death of a pet. I'm 52 and still miss ours.

Answer 9

No, You just need to grieve. No, she wasn't just a dog she was a friend and it does take time. Do try and think of the good times and that might help, also try and talk to friends about the good times with her or write them down. Time will make It easier, I wish there was a quick fix or magic but there isn't. All there is is time and wonderful memories to think about. I am so sorry about your loss. Take care.

Answer 10

How would she want you to react to her death. I know my dogs love me too, but I know they would want me to be happy. My dogs know that they have a good home, and would most likely want me to give another dog the opportunity to have the wonderful life they had while with me. I would want to take the opportunity to give another dog the love and affection I can longer give to my dog.

It is always hard when an animal leaves us, but depending on your religious beliefs... you can always think of them being in a better place where they are always happy and healthy.

I hope you find some solace sometime soon.