Losing Your Dog

Losing a dog is a painful, but inevitable, process which all dog-owners will have to go through. Thankfully, most dogs die of old-age, and many live to be a ripe old age and have a wonderful, fulfilling family life.

	"Near this spot are deposited the remains of one who possessed beauty without vanity, strength without insolence, courage without ferocity, and all the virtues of man without his vices." Lord Bryon

More dog quotes

Euthanasia

A recent survey by a large pet insurance company suggests that less than 5% of dog deaths were caused by accidents, around 8% by natural death, and 35% by illness. 52% of dog deaths were a result of euthanasia (voluntarily ending the life of a dog who is suffering), mostly carried out because both owners and vets felt that it was in the best interests of an elderly or unwell dog. Of course, the decision to put your dog down can by one of the hardest decisions you, and your family, will ever make.

Is euthanasia the right option?

Coping with Grief

It is normal to be very distressed when a dog dies. Please don't let anyone else tell you otherwise! For some reason it is often, especially in the UK, considered "sissy" or silly to mourn the loss of a pet, and we become ashamed of doing so. Remember, grieving is normal.

Coping with grief: how to move forward while mourning the loss of a pet 

Pet Loss, the Inspirational Story of My Dog Companions

Helping Children Cope with the Death of a Pet
The death of a pet can be a traumatic experience for the whole family.  For a young child, it can also be confusing-it's often the first time a child must deal with such loss.

UK Pet Bereavement Support Line - This service, provided by the SCAS (Society for Companion Animal Studies), provides a telephone support line for anyone needing help after losing a pet.

How to deal with pet loss: Coming to terms and moving on - and in depth, step by step process (ebook)

Create an online memorial for your pet (free web service)