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Dogs have much shorter life spans that humans and therefore losing a dog is something most "dog people" experience. Your dog may pass in her sleep sparing you from making the agonizing decision of euthanasia. He may become so ill that you decide that the right thing to do is to make that decision and help him move on. She may be in an accident, not allowing you to prepare for the loss of your favorite furry friend. No matter how it happens, the loss is devastating.

If allowed the chance to say goodbye take full advantage of his last days. Share his favorite foods, visit his favorite places, and see his favorite people. Enjoy your last days together and cherish the memories forever. When my first dog became very ill we spent hours at the beach, shared pizza and visited friends. I will always remember her sitting next to me on the sand with a smile on her face. She will be missed forever and I am glad my memories are happy ones.

Take time to grieve. People will say "it was only a dog". They are the ones who don't understand the joy of sharing your life with a canine. They don't understand the close bond and friendship you developed. Losing a dog is losing a family member. Talk about them; tell stories of the good and the bad. Save a favorite toy or collar. Return to that favorite place and let the tears fall. You have a right to your grief and don't let anyone tell you differently.

If your dog was an important part of your life, chances are they also touched the lives of others. Be cognizant how this loss may affect other family members, and friends, including how the loss affects other pets. Pets in the household will need to restructure their hierarchy. This may result in squabbles among pets that normally do not have issues. They may be depressed, require more attention, or sometimes even need to be coaxed to eat.

Reflect back on the life you shared and try to turn some part of the loss into a positive. Donate gently used bedding, toys and collars to a local shelter or rescue. If not ready to add another pet permanently to your home, honor your friend by fostering for a local rescue. Volunteer at a local shelter. Make a monetary donation, in your pet's name, to research their disease.

We are lucky to be able to spend even a short time with our dogs. Cherish them while they are here and remember them fondly when they are gone. Learn from them and pass those lessons along. They leave paw-prints on our hearts.

Learn more about this author, Bridie Cavanaugh.
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