My Sweet Wolfie Is Gone And I'm Devastated Options

[Kellyt]

My approx 6 yr old shepherd husky mix, Wolfie, died unexpectedly today. I took him to a state of the art 24 hr emergency vet, and despite numerous tests and ultrasounds, they missed diagnosing what wound up killing him-pancreatitis. My husband and I cannot believe that they didn't catch it sooner. There was talk of leptospirosis and liver cancer, as his enzymes were through the roof, but an ultrasound revealed gallbladder issues. Wolfie went in to surgery, and we were very cautiously optimistic, as the vet did say there could be infection complications bc he had bile in his abdomen.
Fast forward two hours, and we get a call that Wolfie took a turn for the worse and his heart stopped during surgery. We race there, in the middle of an impending hurricane, to find out he was gone. GONE. All due to a heart arrhythmia brought on by complications from pancreatitis. We were shocked and stunned. Pancreatitis was never mentioned, despite all the blood test and ultrasounds. Not once!
So now,needless to say, we are devastated. Our boy is gone. We weren't able to have children, so he's our baby. Everything I do, smell, see, and touch reminds me of him. To think of a future without him takes my breath away. I plan on going to a support group, but in the meantime, we're here, left to struggle with our shock and grief at losing the most gentle, sweet, funny, beautiful creature. We were so blessed to have him in our lives, but we feel cheated bc we didn't have more time with him, and bc he didn't have the long life he so deserved.

[moon_beam]

Hi, Kelly, please permit me to add my sincerest sympathies in the physical loss of your beloved Wolfie. Losing a companion is never easy regardless of the circumstances or how long we are blessed with the privilege of their company. Losing a companion suddenly intensifies the grief.

Kelly, this grief journey is one of the most painful experiences you will know on this side of eternity both emotionally and physically. It is a journey filled with many different emotions that normally consume us all at one time - - having control over our emotions during our deep grief is almost near to impossible - - it is frequently referred to as a horror roller coaster ride.

From what you have shared with us, Kelly, there is no doubt whatsoever that you and your husband did everything in your power to give your beloved Wolfie a happy and healthy earthly journey. When our companions are in a medical crisis sometimes the veterinary care providers can restore our companion's health so that they can continue to enjoy a good quality of life with us. And sometimes, sadly, as is the case of your beloved Wolfie, all the heroic attempts are unsuccessful. Under the circumstances your beloved Wolfie's transition to the angels was peaceful as he was under the effects of the anesthesia - - he felt no pain or discomfort. Still, knowing this does not diminish the deep sorrow that is in your heart that you were not by his side to hold him and comfort him.

One of the most painful adjustments we endure during our grief journey is adjusting to the physical absence of our companions. This adjustment does not happen in the first minute, first hour, first day, first week, first month - - or even 6 months. It is an adjustment that can only happen one day at a time, sometimes one moment at a time, in your own way and in your own time.

The good news in the midst of this excruciating pain is that the love bond you and your beloved Wolfie share is eternal. It is not restricted to the physical laws of time and space. Even though you were not physically with him during his surgery and transition home to the angels, he felt your love with him - - as he feels your love with him now. Nothing in heaven or on earth will ever change this. Nothing in heaven or on earth can ever diminish this love bond you share. His sweet Living Spirit continues to share your earthly journey as he always has and always will. He is always and forever a part of your heart and your memories - - he is always and forever a heartbeat close to you.

I know there are no adequate words in any language that can soothe the seering pain of sorrow that is in your heart. I can only hope that the words I share with you will offer you some measure of comfort, support, and encouragement as you travel your grief adjustment journey. One of the many things you need to remember is that you are not alone. Each of us here do understand what you are going through, and we are here for you for as long and as often as you need us.

Thank you so much for sharing your beloved Wolfie with us, Kelly. Perhaps sometime you would like to share a picture(s) of him with us - - but only when / if you want to. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers, Kelly, and please let us know how you're doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam