Am I Going Crazy?, loss of beloved dog Options

[Fiona]

Am I going off my head? My darling wee hairy dog, Sgith died a week ago today after being hit by a car - and I wasn't there. He was with my mum, who's blaming herself no matter that I say dogs will be dogs and run across the road. Sgith was my faithful companion into whose fur I cried many times - he was my fourth baby - I have 3 children who are all also totally devastated. Sgith was a little dog with a huge personality and could never be 'just a dog' as someone said to me yesterday. He spoke to us, understood every word said to him and was spoiled rotten. Now I catch myself pretending hes sitting on the bed with me, speaking to him, trying hard to imagine hes there with me. I cant believe hes not here - can i turn the clock back - when do the tears stop? I cant stand the emptiness in the house - every advert on TV has dogs in it.

Please someone tell me it will get easier.

[Christine]

Hi Fiona, I don't think it's possible that we or our furry friends feel pain because we leave all that behind in our bodies. That may be how he appeared to you because he knew you would recognize him. I sent a donation to my local humane society after Sandy P passed on, so her life will be honored by helping those poor animals in need. It is just a small comfort, because I would give up everything to have her back. I miss her most at night when she's not in her usual spot in the bedroom. I always had to step over her when I got up at night. Sandy P was such a high-spirited, assertive, and fearless dog. She was the boss in our house, and I'm sure she's just the same now. It's rainy over here also. Sgith is with you in spirit and always will be. Sometimes I worry that my grieving is holding Sandy P back from where she needs to go, but I can't help it. I try to keep my mind occupied all the time, but those sad waves of despair just come barging in without any warning. I've planted her a little garden where she is buried. We put her next to Edo who was a rottweiler and her friend. If he was in the way, she just used to walk right underneath him! I think my happy memories are slowly taking over the sad thoughts of her last few days. I've got lots of photos and images in my head (they are movies in my head--thank God for memories). I'm glad you liked the "All is Well" post. I'll be thinking of you and everyone else who is grieving the loss of their furry (feathered, or scaley) friends.

Love,

Christine