For all of us, the sad day will come when our pet is no longer with us. When it does come, finding your way back to happiness can be a struggle. If you’ve recently lost a pet, you are understandably in the deep stages of grief. Dogs with whom we’ve spent countless days caring for leave a serious void in our lives when they are gone. For each of us, the process is different. Some feel that another pet would be out of the question. Others feel that bringing a new pet into the home will help fill that void with that special, unconditional love and energy.
If you are in the Sarasota area, there are some options for you to connect with others who have also experienced loss. Bentley’s House is a pet grief support group. They meet monthly on the third Thursday from 7pm -8pm at the Unity Church on Proctor Road. You’ll be welcomed here by other people who know exactly what you are going through.
Sometimes writing about your dog can help. Remembering the moments of true connection, funny anecdotes and your dog’s habits on paper can help you frame your experience and share the joy of your pet’s personality with others in the community can be cathartic. We’ve created a special place on SarasotaDog.com to host your written memorials. You can write it online and include a picture too. You don’t have to use your name if you choose not to. Tell us about your special pet, personality and things you did together – and feel free to share a picture.
Because our pet’s life spans are shorter than ours losing a pet is part of the ownership process. It’s hard. It hurts. But, you are not alone and with this community you are not alone.
Oh, and while this is Sarasota Dog, we also appreciate that other furry and feathered friends can play a major role in our lives and should be honored as well, feel free to tell their stories here too.