When I Lost My Dog: Grieving the Loss of a Beloved Pet
Losing a pet is a kind of heartbreak that’s hard to put into words.
They aren’t just “animals.” They’re family. They’re part of our routine, our memories, our emotional support, and our home. When my dog passed away, it broke something open in me — and even now, it’s something I carry with love, sadness, and gratitude.
I wanted to share my story and offer some support to anyone navigating this kind of loss.
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My Story
There was a random illness going around the city at the time — something contagious and fast-moving. One of my foster dogs got sick, and before I knew it, it had spread through my home. My oldest dog caught it, and then my late dog — who I miss every day — got into his food and became sick too.
At first, they all seemed to be getting better. But my late dog began acting strangely. My intuition told me something was wrong, and I rushed him to the emergency vet. I didn’t hesitate to put it on my credit card because I knew he needed help.
He seemed to improve after the visit, but something still felt off. I was afraid of the cost stacking up — as many of us are — and I decided to monitor him at home. He passed in his sleep a few days later.
To this day, I wonder: Would he still be here if I’d let him stay at the emergency vet? Would they have found what was wrong?
That question is something I’ve had to make peace with. But it’s also the reason I now advocate so strongly for pet insurance. I never want another pet parent to be in that situation — having to choose between finances and their dog’s life. If I had pet insurance back then, the decision would’ve been so much easier.
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If You're Grieving Right Now...
I want to share some gentle reminders that helped me — and might help you, too.
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1. Your Grief Is Valid
There’s no “right” way to grieve a pet. Some people will understand. Others might not. But your feelings are real. You’ve lost someone you deeply loved — and love doesn't vanish just because they're gone.
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2. Create a Memorial
Doing something in their honor can offer surprising comfort. For me, it was talking to him even after he passed, and lighting a candle in his memory. Some people plant flowers, write letters, or create photo albums. It all counts. It all heals.
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3. Let Yourself Feel It All
Grief isn’t just sadness. It’s guilt. Anger. Confusion. Numbness. Gratitude. Even laughter at a silly memory. Let every feeling come through. That’s part of the process — and it’s how love moves.
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4. Find Safe Support
Talking to someone who understands makes a big difference. That might be a friend, a support group, a therapist, or even a stranger online who’s walked a similar path. Don’t feel like you have to carry this on your own.
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5. Remember the Love
Sometimes, I still question my decisions. But I come back to this: He knew he was loved. Every walk, every snuggle, every silly voice I used to talk to him — that was our life together. And nothing can take that away.
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You’re Not Alone
If you’re grieving, I hope you give yourself grace. Your pet’s life was a gift — and so is your heart for loving them so deeply. I see you. I feel this with you. And I’m sending you all the love in the world. If you ever want to talk or share your story, my inbox is open. You’re not alone in this.