How to Recover After LOSING YOUR DOG - EP.65 

check my online dog training : robertcabral.com/training/yt

It’s one of the worst feelings. It’s not just a dog it’s a Friend. A Dogs love and loyalty Is like losing a piece of your soul.

Had my beloved 15 year old German Shepherd, euthanized at home . She was my HEART DOG. It was one of the MOST agonizing, gut wrenching decisions I’ve EVER had to make. I’m SO glad I felled her transition in HER comfortable, peaceful environment filled with familiar scents, sounds, and visuals , embraced in my arms. Although I’m an educator,Jada was MY TEACHER. Daily she demonstrated unconditional love, patience, discernment, living in the moment, confidence, and humor. I’m so many ways, dogs are closer connected to ✨Source ✨than we are. Love her deeply.

My sweet girl was 15-1/2. I feel so much guilt over scheduling her euthanasia. She was in such cognitive decline which made her inconsolably anxious. She was also unable to safely navigate our stairs but was adamant to follow us everywhere. Her hip dysplasia was so bad, but her anxiety wouldn’t allow her to lay down to rest. She couldn’t get comfortable and medication didn’t help. This was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. I feel like I betrayed her unconditional love and trust. I wish she was still here. There is a piece of me missing. She was with me for 1/3 of my life. I’ve never experienced this depth of grief.

Thanks for this video. I lost two horses and my beagle within six months the year I retired. Then a year and a half later, my 17 year old Jack Russel died at home in my arms. I thought the pain was never going to end. We were still grieving when our almost 13 year old German Sheperd collapsed 5 months later. We rushed him to the vet at 7:30 at night. The vet said we could leave him there and they would X-ray him in the morning. I said no and took him home. I knew he wasn't going to make it until morning and didn't want him to die alone. He passed away at 9:30 at home in his bed. We have always owned a Sheperd, but it took me 1 1/2 years before I could get another German Sheperd puppy. Our 20 year old cat died the same year. We have a pet cemetery on our farm and the horses, dogs and cats all have marble headstones. It's helped me cope with the loss, but it is so hard to lose them. All 3 of the dogs we lost were adopted or given to us because other people didn't want them and they were all great dogs!

Thank you for sharing this. I just lost my French bulldog of 5 1/2 years. She was a rescue I had spent 15 thousand and taught her how to walk again she made it for a year and a half after her surgery and just died from breathing issues. It all happened so quick my family and I are devastated. I want another dog at some point but I’m so scared of going through this again.

My 16 yrs old jack russell dog in heaven this Tuesday she was struggling to breath lungs was filled with blood heavy breathing cannot walk without fallin over doesn't eat anything just stays in bed the vet told me she has days to live before she dies from a heart attack..I feel empty atm the most heartbreaking is she is a big fighter at the end before we took her to the emergency vets at 2am she went out to the garden to do her dutes ended up collapsing upside down in the heavy rain went out and took her in to say our last goodbye with the family... At 3am after the vet visit she gone we put her down.... This is my first dog had plenty happy memories with her....

I just had to put my dog down, after 10 years today. Her name was Stella she was a presa canario. She got lymphoma and in a matter of 10 days she lost 30 pounds didn't eat could barely walk, it's almost like she gave up on life. It was the hardest thing to do in my life, she been with me through my heaviest depressions and anxiety in my life and she was the only reason I overcame some of my hardships in my life. Now I feel hopeless and with no purpose in life. I know that I can't look it at that way but it's just how I feel. We had what it seemed like an unbreakable bond, till it broke today. Accepting that I will never see her again just breaks my heart everytime I think about it. Thank u for some of the advice, I didn't know where else to turn.

It is indeed like a sucker punch right in the stomach and that pain stays for a long time. However, in my personal experience, the pain does "lessen" over time, but certainly not forgotten. Sometimes I just need to take 10 minutes and have a really good cry..it's not a cure for my pain, but it helps me learn to live with the grief and gives a sense of release.

I needed this lifeline after losing my 12 year old Bischon 3 days ago to kidney failure, I am absolutely heartbroken and keep breaking down all the time,.I went onto you tube to listen to some music to try and find some peace and found this podcast......I live in Southport, Queensland Australia and even from across the world your understanding of grief and heartbreak has been the most comforting escape for me...... I now listen to this repeatedly and it is absolutely helping me...... I feel I have a guidance now to help me through this traumatic heartbreak... Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

I lost my dog yesterday I am a retired commando medic and I'm crying as I watch this video. I it was just Marvin and Me for 10 years thank you for the video unfortunately its just me now I hope the hurt in feeling ends

Its not always a bad decision. I have another rescue dog 3 weeks after my dog dies. Because i really wanted to end my life. I have anxiety, borderline, and depressions. My life is save with a dog around me. I can't live without a dog by my side. I know its not good. But i need psychical help but they can't help me. So i need to help myself. I tell Mickey a lot about his big Brother. Mickey feels my panic attacks even for i know i have it. He is also a amazing friend. Bobby was my fur baby. Now God gave me a best friend. Im blessed. I still grieving but i have fun with Mick.

Thankyou for sharing the loss of your beloved Goofy. I lost my baby boy last October during lockdown and endured veterinary beaurocrap on top, it was a nightmare and heartbreaking. My beloved Bigg's was 19. I rescued him at 6 months, and it was like losing a teenage son. We did everything together, I think about him always and talk to him everyday. luv n light x

You are the best person ever.. I have a great love of this podcast so much! You are the man and I thank you for sharing this with all of us because I’m still grieving my dog after six months and believe it or not videos such as yours and a few others, I love. They get me through these occasional burst of grief that I can’t even function. So good to you and thank you again my man .Peace.

Thank for this man I needed this

I find my self wanting to cuddle any dog I see just now. 🐶I’m lost my cat of 13 years in april and my dog of 8years in July 2020. And omg I’ve never felt so much sadness ever in me life.. I also feel bad sometimes because I never felt the pain with my cat.... But it is such different feeling with both. I’m slowly coming though the other side just now. But defo I’ve never felt anything like that in my life... thanks for this vid I really needed to here this.. ❤️

Thanks ..

I'm a farmer by profession. Through the years, I've gone through the passing of 3 dogs. I buried them in my plantation. Macy (15) was buried under a jackfruit tree, Kara (15) soursop tree and Kramie (14) under the shade of a durian tree. This may sound silly, but in being able to care for these trees and keeping them in good health gives me a semblance of continuity of the care and love I gave to my dogs....

Some people just don't get it. Sending hugs to all that have suffered the loss of their best friend ❤️

I lost my Princess 3 days ago. 13 years. She was my everything. I am a mother of 4. I’ve lost people very close to my heart including grandparents and my dad. I can say without a doubt this is the most painful loss. I can’t stop crying . She was my 4th child. 💔.

I've just put my 16 year old Minie to sleep. She started to stop eating, losing strength on her legs, and has been down hill for the last couple of weeks. My heart has been ripped out of my chest. I feel nausea, guilt, sorrow, emptiness, high level of anxiety. For anyone suffering from losing the company, the love, the connection, their eyes looking at you, their smell, the bark and the presence of your beloved pet, a big hug to you...

So true about women who don't have kids, really feeling the loss hit deeper and harder. I am that woman! No kids. My dog was like my little girl. I just had to put her down a few weeks ago. Dinner time and coming home to an empty house is extremely lonely and surreal. This has been such a raw experience. I've gone through so many tissues, it is unbelievable pain...💔There are no words. Thank you for your compassion.💗

Very helpful ! I lost my dog yesterday and I can’t eat or sleep he was 14 years and he took my heart with him .. I don’t think I’ll ever get attached to another dog . We had such a special relationship and he understood me the most out of anyone in this world and now he gone . 😢

The HARDEST part of owning a dog , is SAYING GOODBYE

You are the first person that expressed and displayed complete and utter comprehension of the immense pain experienced by one who has deeply loved and bonded with their dog. I lost my Beloved Tigger on August 10th, and the pain is unrelenting. I'm disabled, don't work, have no transportation, and Tig and I were together, just the 2 of us, 24/7, for 8.5 years. He was my world. Thanks for being who you are.💔🐾💔🐾💔

Lost one of my best friends 2 days ago. The pit in my stomach that comes up into my throat and into my eyes is overwhelming. The miss of her presence leaves such a empty hole inside. After 13 years of being togther it is just heart breaking. I was lucky enough to carry her to work every day with me and on the weekends we were always together doing stuff or just chilling at home. Every thing I do for the first time since her passing is just heart wrenching and almost unbearable at times.

I lost my dog a little over 24 hours now,. I’m completely heart broken. It came so fast. I couldn’t watch him suffer anymore.

I lost my dog to liver cancer two days ago, it felt like apart of me died as well. She was my shadow, helped me through very difficult times. I am devasted it is just so painfull. The pain is just to much..I loved her so much she was my world. I can't stop crying.😭😭

There are women who have lost children and who have lost dogs and who say that the devastation and pain is identical.

Worst grief I’ve ever experienced

I have no children. My dog is my child. I dread this day...she saved my life and is my whole world. The day she leaves me.... i will be broken

the sudden loss of a dog is the actual worst thing in the world

We have children and Ive just lost our dog recently and it also feels like I lost a kid

Thank you for posting this. I just lost my dog today, had to put him down after he suffering so much from pain and I'm still in disbelief. My heart aches so much it feels like it will burst. I think about how I will be able to sleep when he's not beside me. It's like I just want to sleep and not feel it hurt so bad. But thank you for saying it's okay to hurt. It helps so much listening to someone that understands the immense pain of losing a dog

I'm so grateful to have found your podcast. I lost my soulmate-dog 15 weeks ago and I'm still devastated. My pain is crushing still, and your words gave me strength. I'm feeling my grief alone, rather than with people who love me, as they just don't get it. And that's fine. The connection I had with my boy will always be the greatest gift of my life. I miss him terribly. Thank you for your programs.

I just put down my baby girl 2 hours ago. Im laying in bed, her bed sits in the corner of my room I usually feel her warmth on my leg or stomach as we sleep together. I dont know what to do Ive cried all night but now This room feels so empty. I feel alone

Thank you for your video, Robert. I lost my 13-year-old golden retriever 100 days ago tomorrow. We'd been together since she was 8 weeks old. I have lost other dogs but Julia and I were truly bonded on another level. I have never felt loss like this before and I still struggle with the guilt of making the decision too soon. She wasn't in total discomfort but she struggled making short walks over the last couple of weeks. It came on so quick. We were faced with a neurological diagnosis and then an amputation. I felt she told me it was time but at the same time, I had some doubts and that possibly we could make it another day, week, or month. I finally felt that I just couldn't put her through all the testing and surgery at her age. I must live with my decision but it haunts me. I only wanted the best for her. I now try to celebrate her legacy but as a human, I always wish that I had that one more day with her. It's a gut-wrenching feeling.

We never had kids, but we've lost our parents. This is a grief beyond anything iv ever experienced in my life. She WAS my child!! 😭

I lost my 11 year old German shepherd junior on the 11th April and I am really struggling coping. I just miss him so much! 😢

I’m a mother and grandmother and yet it still feels as bad as losing a child

I really needed to watch this video. I had to euthanize my dog yesterday. When I came back home everything was so different. I know my life is going to shift a lot since I no longer have him. What gives me comfort is that I know I made the right decision ( hardest one I have ever had to make). My dog was suffering too much. I knew the time had come. What makes me feel better is that I know that I truly loved my dog and I know that he knew that.

My 1 year old German Shepherd passed away suddenly with no warning immediately abruptly and has destroyed our entire family. This just happened 3 days ago. The worst part is not knowing what happened and constantly blaming myself thinking I did something wrong. Thank you for this video, my heart is so broken and will never be the same.

The death of my first dog hit me so hard it was over a year before I got another. I knew I wasn't ready and didn't want to put my grief onto a new dog. Waiting was the right thing for me and my new doggie was worth the wait.

The world lost the cutest little dog ever yesterday 4/13/21. She passed away unexpectedly and I am heartbroken. Goodbye Cali wags I miss you so much already. You were always such a good girl. I hope you get all the ear scratches, belly rubs, and treats you can handle in dog heaven. 😔😢

I just lost my first dog, my best friend for 14 years, two days ago. I feel so broken

I lost my Grandpa Moses on the 19th October 21 and my Cola on the 25th October 21. I am 61 years old my children out of the home. I am not just devastated 😢 💔 I am physically ill with excruciating pain that cannot be described in words. They are my children.

Absolutely incredible healing words. 1 week today my amazing boy left me suddenly, way too soon. I’m full of sorrow. We had a real love affair going on. When I go for a walk alone now 🥲I carry his lead, I leave the flap door open in case , I change his water daily, constantly talk out loud to him “ Charles your welcome on Mummy’s bed anytime” seems strange to many , However it’s soothing.

So thankful I found this podcast Robert. I had to have my dog put down 2 days ago and the pain and sadness I feel is unbearable. Your conversation is so comforting to me. Thank you for this. Blessings to you.

My dog of 18 years and 8 months just died. She died naturally, I was forward and backward whether or not to put her to sleep, but she was just old, not suffering and in no pain. I thought that we have had such a long road together, I will leave it in God's hands. I also knew, deeply that in caring for her in her old age, is part of the package. She died naturally, at home, in my arms, with the other animals around her. It was profound to see her die, it brought such balance. My mom also died a month ago from cancer, the pain is unbearable. Both my soulmates, gone...

My eldest child said it was only a dog! An eleven year old collie and my baby. I am struggling everyday I truly hope I do come out happy because living like this is terrible. Thank you for your podcast.

Lost our dog recently & nothing prepares you for the sadness . The Spirit remains & knowing that gives some comfort plus the memories stay with you forever . Thanks for the advice in this video .

Sleeping with my Harleymagoo on the floor for the last 2 nights.. 12 years old and my shadow,,, my only family and he’s slipping away .. I’m throwing up every few hrs and can’t stop crying .. this is crushing me and my heart goes out to anyone else experiencing this depth of pain… feal like I’m gonna die without him that’s how strong ,, this popped up at 3 am as I got up to get a coffee as Harley is sleeping peacefully.. thank you for this

I lost my dog a week ago and it’s really been tough. Your video here has been so helpful for me. It’s reassuring to hear you say go “just go through it” because my instinct was to do just that. Whenever a wave of grief hits, I let it wash over me. My dog was worth it. He was worth the pain I’m experiencing. Thanks so much for your encouragement and guidance through this process.

My Walter just died this past Sunday. We went hiking then he died of a heat stroke. We got home, and he just stopped breathing. He passed away in my house. I had no idea what he was going through. I keep replaying over and over again what I could of done differently to save him. I should’ve took him to urgent care right away but I didn’t know and I’ll forever regret it. He was only 6. He was such a gentle soul and amazing dog. My heart is forever broken. I miss you so much Walter. I love you. Thank you Robert for this. It really helped me gain more perspective. ❤

My precious Frankie became an angel last night. He was an Australian Shepherd that was the greatest frisbee catcher. I always felt like I was Joe Montana throwing a touchdown pass to him. He was showing no symptoms until a week ago. We took him to the vet, then he was transferred to another place. Anyway, terminal cancer. We showered him with love the last few days, gave him his favorite food and snacks. I am still in shock....he had just turned 8 and was still lightning fast. I am devastated, heartbroken and feel completely hollow. There are times when I just break down and cry like I've never done in my life. This hurts more than when I've lost family or friends. I know this healing process will take time. He was my best friend, wickedly intelligent, trained us humans, etc.....I can go on and on. Godspeed Frankie.

I just lost my boy Otis, I am in major pain, he was my best friend, I am glad that I am not the only person that experiences these very deep feelings. Thank you your podcast was very helpful for me.

What you stated about the grief being more painful than that of losing a relative...or something along those lines...is spot on. The dog you see is Ryder and I lost him 8 months ago. For almost 15 years, I woke up with him and went to sleep with him. For the past 10 years after my divorce, it's been just he and I. The grief and pain and loneliness I still feel has been more so than when I lost my Dad...which is something I didn't think possible. The routines we developed were those I cherished and looked forward to and to have them be gone in an instant is just excruciating. Thank you for this video. Hearing from others who share the pain is comforting. Mark

This past Friday we had to euthanize our little Chihuahua Bruno,who was 19 years old,he had a tumor on his head, lost one of his eyes because of it, had arthritis, extreme weight loss , and incontinence . Took him to the vet and she basically said I needed to put him down right away because he was suffering so much . So I and said ok but now the guilt and, sadness and pain are eating me alive .

Never had a dog growing up, always wanted one. I married young and two months later got my first dog at a chicken swap (an event usually held at a hardware store where folks can buy/sell/trade small farm animals, tools and equipment). Some folks showed up with two puppies and said they were 8 weeks old that day and needed to go. Both females, collie/black lab mixes. One looked just like a collie and mine more like a lab. The collie looking one got scooped up quickly but no one wanted the lab looking one. I had no plans to get a dog that day, but I felt sorry for the pup (I had no idea what I was doing, lol). Long story short she came home with me. At three years old she saved me and my 6 month old son from a charging bull moose-the moose was only about 75 feet away from us. She intercepted and jumped on his head, chasing him into the woods. She is now 11 years old and has slowed down dramatically in the last few months. Took her to the vets and her liver numbers are elevated and keep going up..... I get a knot in my chest every time I think about what's coming. My first dog, my best friend. This year is going to suck. 😞💔 Update: I had to put her down two weeks ago. I am more tore up over losing this dog than any human I have lost. 😭💔

I had to put my best friend of almost 14 years down Friday September 15 2023. I have no words, I was there for the entire process and it has been hard to say the least. I doubt I'll ever be the same.

I am starting to wish I got another dog just before my dog passed as the stone cold silence and stillness in the household after the loss is excruciating. I agree with statement made in this video. .

Hey Robert, thank you. Nice to know I'm not alone with my grieving. Appreciate your video. You're a kind and decent human being.

I just lost my girl Sam yesterday. I havent been able to focus on anything, 13 years with her. I grew up with her, it wasn’t just losing a friend, it was losing a sibling.

I lost my best friend Barkley suddenly yesterday after 11 joy filled years. He was my heart and soul, I’m broken without him 💔😭

I am so appreciative of this video much needed my Lilly passed away in my arms 4 years ago 2016 she was my world, and I am searching for help with my grief can’t handle this pain seems like it was just yesterday this happened!! HELP!!!

I lost my soul friend of ten years in November. I had been out of town for a month, and Sunny stayed with my parents. They told me he was missing me a lot and didn’t look well. I was home two days later and saw that he was actually mortally ill and had to make the decision to end his life within 12 hours of arriving home. I was so truly heart-broken and I couldn’t face the pain. I got a puppy a month later. And the new puppy did make me happy. But three days ago he lost all energy and coordination. None of the four vets I visited in a panic could tell me what had happened, but they speculate he had a congenital brain tumor that had begun to impact him and there was nothing they could do. I lost him yesterday at only four and half months old. I’m so lost now. I loved them both so dearly. I love you Sunny and Hank. Your loss is indescribable

No one understand 😢😢😢,,, i am alone with this tragedy 💔 it's like i don't have a place to Griff, im lost

Right now I am trying to help my retired service-dog fight Hemangiosarcoma...she is my 3rd dog to have had this horrific cancer. She just hit the 6 month survival point & I am actively grieving which isn't really helping her fight actually. I have lost about 30 pounds & cannot really afford to..I am nearly 90 pounds now & falling. I don't know how to pull out of this so that I can more thoroughly enjoy our time left together. Hopefully, this video will help..Robert, I smiled when you said that you slept on the floor with your dog as that is what I do most nights. That made me feel a bit better. Thank You🥺🥺🥺💕💕💕

I had to put down my two dogs last year this February . Not one friend or family member sent me any sort of condolences. I'm a caregiver and i love people and Buddy Love and Molly girl brought so much comfort and joy to others. I feel so sad not for me but for by two beloved furbsbies. I'm still grieving and its been a year and j want to thank you for your honesty and kind words. Your grief podcast saved my life.🤗

Thank you. I just lost my companion recently. She was challenging, but she definitely made me whole. I am really struggling.

I lost my beloved Jack Russell , Henry on 12/22/22 He was my constant companion. My best friend. My wingman. My soulmate. Yesterday evening 1/28/22, while at at dinner with my wife I was overcome with a burst of emotion & sadness about my loss. It was overwhelming. At this point my wife has tired of my crying and deepening depression. Our marriage has begun to suffer because of my uncontrollable grieving. I just can't shake this depression and sadness. When we returned home I searched RU-vid and found your video. Everything you said was spot on. It describes my relationship with my friend and the loss I am still feeling five weeks after his death. I just wanted you to know that the video was comforting to me.Hopefully it will be the first step of my recovery from a loss that not everyone understands.

My Boxer dog Virgil passed March 27 2021. My first loss of a pet. I'm completely torn apart. 💔

Thank you Robert for this potcast which I hardly can listen to. I lost my 6,5 year old Rottie september 29, 2020 due to a streptococcus in his lungs, which we could not get under control and he could not breathe because of. He was my EVERYTHING - It still hurts so bad. Thank you Robert for this potcast

My dog died today and I feel like a part of me just died

I had my best friend Abby (8.5 y.o. Staffy) euthanized 7 months ago (Oct 19, 2022) after a LONG year of battling dual-torn CCL's, chronic shoulder injuries, muscle atrophy, total incontinence, paralysis, bone cancer in her spine, chronic severe dehydration and eventual kidney failure and sudden blindness from the ongoing daily use of prescribed NSAID pain meds. I pretty much didn't work much at all in 2022, because I was home with her all day carrying her in/out several times a day, administering meds and sub-q fluids, massage therapy, physical therapy, red light therapy.....and I just didn't want to leave her alone. She was just a puppy when my wife left me and, since then it's been just me and Abby. She saw me at my worst, darkest, most depressing periods and she's the one who supported me and got me through those times. Everyone loves their dogs, but it's hard to describe how much she meant to me and what she did for my soul. She actually saved my life a couple times. I've lost best friends, my grandparents and other people I was very close to, which includes many other pets. I've gone through numerous breakups and, obviously I've gone through divorce. My first ex wife once told me that she was pregnant and that I was going to be a (first time) daddy. I was over the moon and IMMEDIATELY began restructuring my life and my goals to take care of this baby. Then she had a "miscarriage" and I would later find out that what REALLY happened, was she cheated on me, got pregnant, then felt guilty and had it aborted. I was devastated over hearing that, the betrayal. The grief I felt over these things didn't even come close to the hell I went through when the best friend that I've ever had got that shot and her lifeless body slumped into my arms, when just seconds earlier she was being doted on with Hershey kisses and love. Having to walk out of that room without her and seeing her laying there with her tongue out, that was the single hardest moment of my life. I'm not ashamed to say that I balled and wailed, without stopping for a solid week. For another few weeks after that, I wouldn't leave the house at all, because I thought that if her spirit came back to visit me, that she's be visiting me in our home and I didn't want to leave the house and miss that opportunity. So, for an entire month I stayed on my bed, where she laid next to me every single night of her life, minus the first 8 weeks before I took control of her. Gradually, my wails turned to cries and my cries turned to whimpers and they became less frequent.....but I am still struggling no less, 7 months later. I still talk to her everyday and I still tear up in the evening when she would usually be laying next to me. She used to love apples and would bark at me as her front legs hopped off the ground and she stared up at the apple trees and I would grab an apple and we'd sit and eat it together. I still can't look at those trees without thinking about her. There are too many other things to list that remind me of her to this day. Many people have suggested that I maybe get a new dog, possibly a rescue. While I love the idea of taking a dog out of a bad situation and giving them the love they deserve, I just don't feel ready yet, for several reasons. Last year was absolutely exhausting, physically, mentally and especially emotionally. It was a roller-coaster, she'd be her old self for a few weeks, then a week where I think it might be the end for her, then she's perk up again for a month, then another bad few days, just a lot of back and forth. It took it's toll on me in a lot of ways and I guess I'm still trying to recharge after all of that. I also feel that getting a new dog would force me to turn the page on Abby and start a new chapter and that terrifies me. I feel like that would push Abby even further away from me than it already feel like she is. My grief has improved a lot, but here we are 7 months later and I'm still working through it. Originally, I thought maybe I'd be ready for a new dog in the spring, but now I'm thinking maybe not until October, which will be one year since Abby was put to rest. Maybe it will take longer, I really don't know. I know that people lose dogs all the time (I've lost a few of them myself) and that it's a normal part of dog ownership, but this one hits me different than the others. I was far more bonded and much more connected, intuitively to this dog, for sure. I seriously feel for anyone who experiences this degree of bonding and connection to a dog and ultimately experiences that loss. It's almost soul-crushing. I am getting through it, but it's just taking a while. I WILL say though, that I've never been able to give and receive real, true unconditional love with any human the way that I have with my dogs over the years, particularly with Abby. The love, adoration and dedication we get from humans just can't be compared, at all, to that we get from a good dog who feels loved and cared for. It's just not the same, period. I think that most people tend to be too busy to form those types of connections to their pets, they're too bogged down and distracted by work, family, spouses, kids, activities, events, bills, etc and their household pets become more accessories within the home, rather than a focal point. I tend to put my pets above everything else, which includes people and, maybe that's wrong or dangerous of me to do, but that's just who I've always been.

yes, my dog was 14.5 when he died. He was my world, my sole companion and my child. That was 3 years ago. It has been the most profound loss I have had in my life and I have had multiple big losses, believe me. My life went dark when he died. You're wrong to say women who have children don't feel such a loss. I have been a single parent all my life and my dog was as important as my child. No difference.

Thank you Robert for doing this video. I think I am very similiar to you as I am a deep griefer. We lost our Molly just a few days after Christmas and the immense loss has literally struck me down like I have never been. I have never felt this way before and I guess it didnt make it any easier as she took her last few breathes as she drifted off to a peaceful and lasting sleep in our arms. I cry everyday and I am constantly 'bashing' myself for this (did I do everything possible to prolong her life to ensure that her suffering cease as she was diagnosed on the day that her liver tumor had burst and she was bleeding internally and to make things worse she is already on lifetime heart meds) and it is the worst feeling I have ever felt. I am trying to deal with all this as our whole family were there with Molly, my wife and our 3 kids. I think Molly was very happy that we were all there for her in her last moments but I cant seem to get that moment out of my head as she passed through. I was thinking that I may be silly and abnormal with my grief but Molly was my everything and I miss her every second, every minute of my life. I dont think I will ever stop grieving but I know that life has to go on and your words of taking the grief head on is what I am doing and I think I will come out at the end a better person like yourself. Is it okay that after our grieving process we will still cry every now and then when we think of our loss?

Your video was very helpful to me. My dog Roxy who has been my companion for 12 years was just diagnosed with cancer today all i can do is give her meds and keep her comfortable i know the day well come but i dont want to think about that now thank you so much. mary

i have to put my sweet boy down in a couple of days. hes almost 17 years old and has been with me since i was 8 years old. it still doesn’t feel real and im trying so hard to find comfort in your words. i can’t imagine life without my sweet boy💔

Thank you for your insight, I lost my best friend Frodo 19 years on Monday, 4/3/23 and so your insight gave me validation of my feeling for him. as a 56-year-old man breaking down crying like a baby and learning to understand the unconditional love and bond between us is very important.

I lost my little one 2 days ago, it hurts like nothing I've ever felt in my life...

I have never felt pain this deeply. I lost my love yesterday from CHF. I don't know how I will ever be able to move on. She was the love and light of my life. I can hardly eat or sleep I keep thinking about how I want to hold her again. The pain is unbearable. Everything around me reminds me of her. How do I go on without her? She meant the world to me and now life feels impossible without her. I am grateful I got to hold her in my arms as she died and she didn't die alone. I can't handle the pain I am feeling now that she is gone.

At your 6 minute mark, this is what we struggled with when we had to make the decision to say goodbye to our 12 year old long haired Daschund Philippe. The weight of the doubt regrading the decision (just 6 days ago) is heavy. His heart was rapidly filling with fluid and a totally separate issue with potential kidney failure and Addison's Disease. We believe it was cancer just attacking his body. For about 24 hours, we waited and tried to see if any medicine would give some relief but when we saw him standing over the water bowl with no energy to drink it while having a hard time breathing, we took him to the ER vet and that is when she told us he was suffering and that more than likely all of the tests and procedures they had to do in order just to give him some relief off his chest; was something we didn't want to put him through. I have to know that decision that day was the best for him. Our sweet boy Phil; we miss you son.

I understand and feel everything you said. Especially the part when you said you can punch the face of the of person who will said: It's just a dog. That's why when my Angel White died of heat stroke or cardiac arrest all of a sudden, it shocked me. I have many times experiences a dog died but this one is all of a sudden death. Am so devastated coz Angrel White was only 5yrs old. Very active, she like to. Catch a rat. We have many happy memories that's why it was a shock to found out she was laying without life. 😢😢😢😢😢. I stop talking to people.. I only choose people who I want to talk. My officemates doesn't understand and don't care.

This help me so much on letting yourself feel all and numb your self lost my dog 14 years and i feel like my heart its been ripped from my chest

I just lost my dog Dakota who was my best buddy from Degenerative Myelopathy and on 12/22/22 I had to make the trip every dog owner dreads, we had to let him go. Every morning now I wake up to an empty house. He always wanted to go for a walk and would hurry me through breakfast. Now he is gone and my heart is bleeding. This hurts awful. Thank you for sharing this!

I lost my dog Bandit and it tore my heart. It was a good solid 3 years later and then rescued my dog now Otto. And I love Otto so much, he is the next greatest dog I ever owned. Still think of Bandit often, remembering the good times we had. It is never easy losing a pet because they love us so unconditionally, we truly don't deserve them. But it is possible to give your heart again after losing.

Wow thank you so much for those words of encouragement. Lost my best friend Duke who was my companion for 13 years. He had 6 seizures in one day was devastating to watch and the loss is immense. Thank you for your talks.

Thank you....I am devastated after losing my JoJo two days ago.

I’m in tears just reading the comments. I love my Beagle with all my life and know this day will not escape me. 😭😭😭

My guide /service greatdane13passed9months ago.Shyloedane was my everything my life n I couldn't function without her.I can't move on I've got pictures everywhere by my bed her guide harness her papers n I look everyday for a sign of her spirit.I told her before her passing n I saw it but It's getting even harder everyday n I cry at least 2xs a day n I can't even say her name or typ it and I'm crying.I have no control.

I'm 64 and I'm getting ready to lose my best friend I thank you so much God bless you and everything you do you've been a wonderful blessing

Thank you for reinforcing the “do not get another dog yet” idea. You should not make any major decisions during times of huge amounts of emotions.

My fox died in my arms yesterday as they put her to sleep winter February 14, 2006-April 29, 2023

Let me sum this rambling mess up for the people that are truly hurting feel the pain to the point you ugly cry. Get you a journal and talk to them saying all the stuff you feel necessary then gather up your pups belongings you’d like to keep and spend time around them. After that when your able to clearly choose a new best friend do it.

Thank you ❤! I lost Scooby a year ago! I was in a horrible shape and you right I had the wrong person around and me. This person told me to get rid off everything and Forget about it! Like it was trash! This person saw my pain but never go it! I was numb I was existing! I am an orphan and my dog Scooby was my best friend, my companion He was chilled and so cool . He died of organ failure that caused him to have a heart attack I did not know he was that ill! He acted ok. O took him to the vet Because I noticed bout of diarrhea! At the dog ER I was told that he had edema in his Stomach and eventually drowned and had a heart attack!😮 😢 my pain and my sorpriice was so horrible! I don’t have family and it is taking an over a year to cry. I couldn’t do it. Now I can cry. Thank you I spend a lot of days listening to David Romano ‘ If tomorrow starts without me’ I felt like my dog was talking to me when I listened to this poem. I have a dog now and she is good and I purchased the dog 3 months after the loss and you are correct I should have waited but she is funny and happy. She helps me a lot since I am an orphan I couldn’t wait

Thank you for making this video. I lost my most loyal friend and family member 3 weeks ago and still haven’t quite been able to recover. She was an old girl and my first dog, always bursting with life. I know time will pass and the pain will subside, but I’ll remember and love her for the rest of my days.

I lost both my fur babies in just a span of 44 days to bloat. If there's emergency facilities and a good veterinarian here then they could have been easily saved.Daisy was 5 years old and her son Troy was just only 2 years old. I was always worried about them and live in anxiety because of the trauma I had experienced with Daisy with no availability of emergency facilities. Deep inside I know they sacrificed themselves for me. I know they want me to live in peace and grow. I am grieving their loss and my life comes crashing down. But i won't let their sacrifice go in vain. I will live the way they want in their honour. I will carry forward the lessons they taught me. Thank you for coming into my life and teaching me self worth, unconditional love, forgiveness and patience. My life may shift without your presence but you will always be in my heart forever. Missing you both badly. I love you Daisy and Troy. Hope you guys are together and having fun till we meet again.

Thank you for this video, i really find an answer here🙏. I lost my dog 2weeks ago after 14years. She was my first dog and the pain and grief i am feeling is something so hard i never felt before. I am thinking geting another because the hole is too big and i am just lost wothout her, but i also feel i need to wait so my heart can heal a bit, and i just need to hear it from someone. Thank you❤ I know the new dog will come when the time is right, because i cant imagine myself wothout a dog anymore

Hiya, greeting from the UK. I have only just come across your channel. Loosing a dog. OMG I don't even more where to start and sorry this be a long one. 8 yrs ago a fire broke out in the camp site where we were living and the wind blow it into our direction. My Border Collie woke me up to alert me to the danger. My GSD X made it out and so dud my BC however he run back into the burning caravan. I was trying to get in to get him out but people were holding me back. I had to listen to burn alive. Now I am a total mess even after all these years and I truly believe I never will. To thus day I stoll have not thanked those people, I didn't want to be held back, I wanted my boy back by my side. I don't talk about this anymore, I in tears even now typing this. Since than I had to put 2 other dogs to sleep due to old age but boy nothing cut like loosing him. My kids don't understand cos it's only a dog. Wrong things to say to me. Currently I have a 3 way x of gundogs. He is a 9 months goofball, great with kids, other dogs, livestock. So sorry being a mum did not safeguard me from the pain.