We’ve got 3 other dogs (spaniel, Lhasa and a yorkie cross) but you can see, particularly in the Lhasa apso, that he misses her. They laid together. His mannerisms have changed since she went. I’m fairly at peace with it now (although the wife isn’t) so not as bad but still wonder why it happened with no warning at all.
My thoughts are with you Marcus. 5 years is no age at all.. We had a Westie (Max) for 14 years and he passed away nearly 6 years ago. He was my best friend and helped me through my divorce. I still grieve but the pain does get easier. I love it when i see others enjoying walking their dogs.
My Westie lived to the ripe old age of 18. Ate everything he shouldn't, Chocolate buttons were his favourite. Whenever I see others walking Westies it takes me back. Such characters. Hope the pain eases, I haven't managed to bring myself to get another yet.
All of us who have had dogs feel for you and know just what you are going through. For what it's worth, I found that the best thing, if it's possible, is to start looking now for a another dog. Not a replacement, that's never possible. When I had Cavaliers, after a Blenheim died I would get a Black and Tan. I knew a lad who was devoted to his Collie's. A 'Lassie' typed would be followed by a Black and White and he followed this pattern all his life. Consider it. The therapeutic bit kicks in when you find a little puppy who needs you.
Not a dog person but don't hate them, I'm an animal person. My Cat has found herself without her brother. Me and my lady split up and with it the two cats were split up. Missing Paulie(the one she took) to bits and miss all my past pets. Trust me, the only time you think of another pet as replacement is before you're confronted with a rescue animal, that second you know they'll never be a replacement, just a new friend with a completely different personality. My Nery is really missing her brother, as soon as I move I'm off to get her a rescue cat. He'll be black no doubt as they tend to be ones abandoned most.
I get that. I'm always asking people to go to the kennels to give a stray a loving home rather than give somebody hundreds of pounds who is making plenty of money from it and doesn't give a damn when it comes to the animals welfare. I can't see me ever getting another dog after Skye. I can see where people are coming from by saying get a puppy, but that doesn't cut it for me. Skye is more than just a dog to me. I'd always compare other dogs to her and that just isn't fair.
Condolences to you and your family Marcus. I've had dogs all of my life, and each time I've lost one it rips my heart out of chest. I've always loved dogs, what you see is what you get. Coincidentally my blue Staffie is five years old and I can't even imagine what kind of state I'd be in if I was to lose him suddenly. Go get a pup that needs you Marcus
I hop things are feeling a little less raw for you and family , Marcus. Losing a family pet - especially suddenly & unexpectedly - is awful. Been there twice, but first time was by far the hardest - I sobbed for a good few days then spent 3 months off the booze! Both dogs where taken young / before their time, but had such bad illnesses we had to say our goodbyes. It’s good you have a few other dogs to keep you all busy and in good company.
The wife said the same about her - some people on facebook have sent us links to westie pups locally - but Poppy was a one of a kind dog and I doubt we'll ever get another one like her. I also know how much it hurt watching her die in front of me and having to say goodbye. It's made me think twice about having another dog when the ones we have are gone. Don't think we will - plus her parents are looking after them whilst we're away and her Dad's not in the best of health so having them looked after whilst you're on holiday adds £££s to the cost again! Too many negatives really - but I know for almost certain we'll have an empty house with no kids or dogs in about 15 years and I'll be scrolling through facebook (or whatever social media there is by then) and find that one of my friend's dogs has got itself pregnant and the whole thing will start again!!
