NewfLove
New member
When Allie died 18 days ago, the grief was so overwhelming, that I had to do something. After two days in bed wailing, I bought two books, and both are very good.
1. The Loss of a Pet by Wallace Sife, Ph.D
2. Coping with Sorrow on the loss of your pet by Moira Anderson, M.Ed.
Both of these books helped me recognize that my excruciating grief was normal and that it would, with time, subside.
My vet suggested I call a pet loss support line at UC/Davis, California, although there are many across the nation. I spoke to a kind, compassionate vet student. I couldn't say any words at first, just crying, and she said, "That's ok, I've got all night." I told her of Allie's lifelong problems and our love and she said that "your level of grief is directly related to your dedication and years with your pet. She knows how much you love her." She helped tremendously.
And, maybe most importantly, I started writing in a journal a friend got me. Every few hours, at first, I would write Allie, telling her how much I love her and miss her. I felt like I was connecting with her and she was hearing me. It was something tangible.
Also, the site www.rainbowsbridge.com has a great chat room, message board, etc.
These are but a few suggestions.
I wanted to share a card our vet gave us when we picked up Allie's ashes:
"We wanted to express our condolences for your loss of Allie. Rarely do we find a dog like Allie. She had a true zest for life and a heart bigger than most. She was a blessing. Her life was not easy, but with your love, she had a long happy life. I know you were blessed to have her love, as she was to have yours."
Having a vet that truly understands your depth of love for you pet helps, too.
If I can ever help anyone, please contact me. You can't go through this grief alone.
Dianne
1. The Loss of a Pet by Wallace Sife, Ph.D
2. Coping with Sorrow on the loss of your pet by Moira Anderson, M.Ed.
Both of these books helped me recognize that my excruciating grief was normal and that it would, with time, subside.
My vet suggested I call a pet loss support line at UC/Davis, California, although there are many across the nation. I spoke to a kind, compassionate vet student. I couldn't say any words at first, just crying, and she said, "That's ok, I've got all night." I told her of Allie's lifelong problems and our love and she said that "your level of grief is directly related to your dedication and years with your pet. She knows how much you love her." She helped tremendously.
And, maybe most importantly, I started writing in a journal a friend got me. Every few hours, at first, I would write Allie, telling her how much I love her and miss her. I felt like I was connecting with her and she was hearing me. It was something tangible.
Also, the site www.rainbowsbridge.com has a great chat room, message board, etc.
These are but a few suggestions.
I wanted to share a card our vet gave us when we picked up Allie's ashes:
"We wanted to express our condolences for your loss of Allie. Rarely do we find a dog like Allie. She had a true zest for life and a heart bigger than most. She was a blessing. Her life was not easy, but with your love, she had a long happy life. I know you were blessed to have her love, as she was to have yours."
Having a vet that truly understands your depth of love for you pet helps, too.
If I can ever help anyone, please contact me. You can't go through this grief alone.
Dianne