As someone who has spent the last 15 years in the world of senior dogs, when I think of pet loss I naturally think of an old dog dealing with health issues, that could no longer be managed.
However, there are other circumstances that cause someone to lose their much-loved dog (I use dog and not pet because they are the focus of my work) and they are a result of:
- A dog going missing
- Accident
- The need to rehome
- Euthanasia because of behavioral issues
- The dog parent going into a care facility
I will be delving deeper into each of these scenarios in separate articles, offering tips and advice on how to handle these losses.
If you have experienced loss in any of these ways, please feel free to share your story if you’re comfortable. I know others will find support in your words, and it will help everyone feel less alone.
I’ve been rescuing and caring for senior dogs since 2009. From vision and hearing loss to obesity, dementia, kidney disease, liver issues, cardiac problems, Cushing’s, mobility challenges and more, you could say I’ve dealt with and learned a lot! In addition to my hands on experience, I’ve taken many courses and earned several qualifications to keep learning how to help senior dogs and they include: Senior Dog Enrichment, Understanding Canine Anxiety (diploma), Care of the Senior Pet (certificate), Pet Bereavement Counsellor (diploma) and I’m a Certified Pet Loss Grief Support Coach.