Deb D’Andrea, Nederland. Bonds formed with our beloved furry ones last a lifetime; and when the time comes to say “good bye,” the loss and emptiness can bring one to experience overwhelming feelings of grief, sadness and emotional emptiness. Some people don’t understand how deeply this loss is and say “It’s just a dog or just a cat…” as if you aren’t supposed to feel the loss of their presence in your life. You are losing a loved one, a family member, a part of your pack.

Everyone experiences a different grieving process, with some going through this process quickly while others experience years of remorse. Did they try hard enough to save them, how could they have changed the outcome, all the unanswered why’s that go along with their passing or was it their time. Working through the empty space they leave in our hearts, the sadness when you see a toy or remember walking a trail with them by your side, can stir up strong emotions even years later. If your companions passing were a positive thing due to old age, health issues or other issues, it doesn’t make it any easier to say goodbye.

Our positive memories of time spent together with our companions, and that brief history of fun moments shared, along with remembering those special times that made one smile can help work through grief. Grief is a very personal emotion, and for children it may be their first experience with death. There are many stages of feelings during the grieving process with guilt, denial, anger and depression being emotions that surface, potentially leading to extreme depression. Being honest with yourself as you work through your emotions, expressing your feelings through poems, photo collages and talking with others about your loss are helpful ways to work through these feelings.

When I was a kid we had to put a kitty to sleep because it was beyond rehabilitation by the time it was put on the front door of our house. We had saved so many, but this poor kitty was just too far gone. To this day I understand we did the right thing, my parents explaining to me what was going on and that we had to do the humane thing and put the kitty to sleep. At a very young age I understood that sometimes you’re just too sick, your body has failed, and that it’s time to say goodbye. I thank my parents for explaining to me what was going on and feel that their honesty has helped me deal with the death of companions I’ve had throughout my life.

But with that said, I also know it’s a very hard topic as several of my friends never understood and never had their parents explain these difficult topics to them. It’s never easy, even if it is the path that makes the most logical sense. I have several who call me, ask me to come over, and ask if it’s time. A big hug goes out to all who have lost loved ones for various reasons.

Till next time! Deb D’Andrea, founder of 4TheLuvOfDogz, provides Petz Nanny Services, Canine Massage, and coming soon, Canine Agility. 4TheLuvOfDogz home-made dog treats are sold at local stores and K9Birthday Cakes are available directly from Deb. 4TheLuvOfDogz cares for dogs, cats, birds, fish, and horses; but no children. Contact Deb at 720-675-7078 or info@4theluvofdogz.com. Online: www.4theluvofdogz.com