How to get over a dog?

Question

I am putting to sleep my dog, whom I've had for only 7 1/2 short years. She has major arthritis and some hip dysplasia. How do I get over her? She is sooooo much more than just a dog to me. How do I deal with the pain in my heart? and the grief?

We have a puppy who is 7 months old. When we bought her, we weren't thinking it would be to "replace" our older dog, but the time has come. I almost feel as if I will not be able to give the puppy too much love because I am so heartbroken right now.

Answer 1

I understand what a difficult time this is for you. Letting go of a beloved pet (or anyone special in your life) is very hard. Know that you are doing the very best for her, and that she has had a wonderful life because of you. Remember the times that were happy and good, and keep pictures to remind you of those times. Don't be afraid to feel the pain and experience the grief of your loss. Time does not heal all wounds, but eventually they become less painful. Talk with friends and family about your feelings, and communicate these things to your veterinarian as well. Support is available to you, and there are many books that can help you cope during this time. Above all, keep in mind that you are being selfless by letting her go. You aren't doing something to her. You are doing it FOR her. You are making the enormous sacrifice of putting your feelings aside in order to do what is best for her. It is out of love and mercy that you let her go. In time, you will find comfort in knowing you were a pillar of strength when she needed you most.

Answer 2

Just like with any person in your family or friend it will take time. I know how you are feeling I had a dog since I was little and a couple years ago we had to put her down too. Just remember that your dog will not be in anymore pain and that that is what you really want to put her at peace. She still loves you and doesn't look at you like you are the bad guy. you are saving her and it will hurt for a long time don't get a new dog cause you will just be trying to replace her and you can't do that. I am really sorry and If i can help in anyway let me know I hope this helped you some what.

Answer 3

It is terribly hard. In May of 2006, I had my poodle (14yrs) put to sleep. It was the most difficult thing that I think I ever did. She was always with me. The hardest times were when I came home and went to bed. It eventually gets a little easer. This past April I got another puppy. I couldn't take it anymore. I (and my kids) needed another dog. She in no way has replaced my poodle, but we love her dearly. You may need to keep your puppy in mind now. If they were together for a while, the new puppy will probably go through a bit of depression.

I hope you are ok. This is a terrible thing to go through.

Answer 4

I'm sorry for your loss.

And I'm asking this in a compassionate way - why do you want to "get over" her? She's not a hangover or a bad boyfriend ;-)
She's a loved family member, and losing her is going to affect you for a while, maybe a long time. Give yourself some time to grieve. Make a photo album with all the pictures you have of her. Write out the narratives -- this is when we went on our trip to (wherever) and remember we stayed in this motel... etc. I find that it is very healing to do this.

My advice is usually to get another dog when you are going at least a week at a time without thinking of the old one.

My condolences - LRH

Answer 5

i had to put my dog to sleep a couple years ago and she was the best dog a person could ask for. it took me a long time to get over her, but i know she is in a better place and is free to run wild in the wind. And the good thing is is that before she died she had puppies, and 7 boy 1 girl, and the girl looks almost exactly like her, so i still have a little piece of Rosie with me, :)

Answer 6

I have a very old dog .She also has spinal arthritis ,she is 14 years old, and also has throat cancer i hoping she will make it to x-mas .But she has been our baby since we have no children.We bought a puppy about 1 year ago, she is alto of joy and love and could never replace our old dog. But she sure will help with the pain and the lose of our old dog. so sorry for grief, I know exactly how you feel. good luck!

Answer 7

You need time. I had to do this last year and for about a week or two my other dog wasn't able to cheer me up either. You need to keep in mind that your dog is old and sick and will be at peace and no longer hurting.
It is hard to imagine right now, but it really does get better with time. I still miss my dog even though he has been gone a little more than a year.

Answer 8

I don't think I've ever really gotten over the loss of any of my dogs over the years. You get new ones not to replace the ones that have passed, but to bring a smile to your face in their own way. You will love this pup just as much as you did your older dog, just for different reasons. Just don't compare the pup to the older dog, this will only lead to more disappointment, and resentment.

Answer 9

Im sorry to hear about your dog.Just so you wouldnt feel that much depressed anymore,just think you are now ending her agony and she wouldnt have to suffer anymore.You dont need to rush things and try to give your new dog the equal love and attention you gave your old dog.Take things one at a time.Just enjoy the company of the new dog and let her console you and help you move on over the loss of your old pet.

Answer 10

It sounds unthinkable, but Aly's right. It's not a replacement, a new dog is a way to move on. Give yourself a little time to grieve, then go out and get another one.

My condolences. It's always so hard to lose a pet.