Sarah, I've very sorry for your loss.
I've lost my dog and three of my cats over the years. The loss of one of my cats was the catalyst for my DP. And last October when I lost my beloved Hadjimon, my one true soulmate in life, I came close to becoming DP'd again. I believe it was the spirit of Hadji that saved me from DP this time (I just posted about it in the "Spiritual - Do you believe in an afterlife" thread).
Studies have shown that the grief associated with the loss of a loved pet is as intense as the loss of a human loved one. And for some us (me, for sure), it's even more intense. Be kind to yourself, no matter what the circumstances I think we always feel guilt - and we shouldn't. Remember the good times, the love and happiness that you gave to Koko.
After losing Hadji I started writing a book about him. I jotted down every little detail I could remember of our lives together. I didn't want to forget our precious times over the years. It's been ten months now, and when I read what I wrote I sometimes laugh, and sometimes cry. But I'm so glad that I wrote it all down, it helps to keep the memories alive.
There is nothing we do to help us deal with grief that should be considered strange or unusual. We all have to deal with it in our own ways.
I believe the spirits of our beloved pets live in the Elysian Fields and watch over us.
May you find comfort in the memories of your many happy years together.
Carole
I've lost my dog and three of my cats over the years. The loss of one of my cats was the catalyst for my DP. And last October when I lost my beloved Hadjimon, my one true soulmate in life, I came close to becoming DP'd again. I believe it was the spirit of Hadji that saved me from DP this time (I just posted about it in the "Spiritual - Do you believe in an afterlife" thread).
Studies have shown that the grief associated with the loss of a loved pet is as intense as the loss of a human loved one. And for some us (me, for sure), it's even more intense. Be kind to yourself, no matter what the circumstances I think we always feel guilt - and we shouldn't. Remember the good times, the love and happiness that you gave to Koko.
After losing Hadji I started writing a book about him. I jotted down every little detail I could remember of our lives together. I didn't want to forget our precious times over the years. It's been ten months now, and when I read what I wrote I sometimes laugh, and sometimes cry. But I'm so glad that I wrote it all down, it helps to keep the memories alive.
There is nothing we do to help us deal with grief that should be considered strange or unusual. We all have to deal with it in our own ways.
I believe the spirits of our beloved pets live in the Elysian Fields and watch over us.
May you find comfort in the memories of your many happy years together.
Carole
