Dealing with the Loss of a Beloved Dog

Depression and sorrow are common when any loved one passes away. But when my first furry friend died, my family vet gave me an unexpected piece of advice that has stuck with me ever since: When a dog dies, they take with them a piece of your heart, leaving behind a hole that can be filled with the love of another dog. Over my lifetime, I've come to understand the profound impact dogs have on our lives, and the immense grief that comes with their passing.

A Treasured Companion

One of my earliest memories is of my first dog, a cherished companion who meant the world to me. When he died, our family vet, Dr. Paul, shared a message that would guide me through later losses: 'When a dog dies, he takes a piece of your heart with him, but the hole that's left is the perfect size to fit the love of another dog. If we love enough dogs and live long enough, one day our frail human hearts will be gone, replaced by the perfect love that only dogs know.'

The Pain of Loss

I lived a long time and loved many dogs. Each one left a significant impact and an empty space in my heart. When I lost a beloved heeler to spinal cancer, I felt the same profound sadness I experienced with each previous loss. She was an excellent sheepdog and a wonderful mother figure to Pepper, who she successfully taught to herd. The loss felt as devastating as losing close friends or family members, and the grief I felt was as poignant as if I had lost my own parents.

Memories and Reflections

Over the years, I have lost over 14 dogs, each with their own special place in my life. I still remember each one clearly, as if it was yesterday. The pain of their loss is acute and the impact remains even years after they have passed. Like losing any loved one, the companionship and love they provided have shaped who I am today. It's the price we pay for the meaningful connection and joy that dogs bring into our lives.

Life and Purpose

Life can be sad, but with a dog by our side, it can also be incredibly fulfilling. Dogs are not forever, like us, and their departure often leaves a deep, unfillable void. However, each dog that enters and exits our lives leaves an indelible mark on our hearts. As a heartwarming reminder, I keep a small grove of cedar elm trees on my property. The resting place for several 'Old Friends,' these trees serve as a tribute to my beloved canine companions.

Lingering Blessings

After each loss, I make sure to bury my old friend with a good pack of dogs and leave the empty spot in my heart open and available for another dog to fill. This practice allows me to have a sense of continuity and hope, knowing that while my heart will always be touched by the loss, the love shared with each dog helps to heal the pain. As I approach 71, I continue to cherish the memories of each dog and remain hopeful about the future.

Currently, I am blessed to have my beautiful red-nosed pit, Carma, by my side. She is only 5, but the signs of aging are already there. My heart aches at the thought of her eventual passing, but I continue to trust in the cycle of joy and grief that comes with these loving companions. It is a painful truth, but it also underscores the immense privilege and joy of having a dog as a beloved companion.

Through the grief and the pain, the cycle of love and loss with dogs will always remind us of the beautiful bond we share and the deep, unconditional love they give us. May we cherish them while they are with us and find solace in their memory when they are gone.