Mutt or champion sired. Furry or hairless. Big or little. What is it about a dog that allows it to work its way right into our being? I hadn’t thought too much about that until a few days ago when our 16 year old shih tzu decided to run free leaving a huge hole in our heart.
Both the hubby and I have lost parents, siblings, good friends. All made us sad, but left behind were lots of shared memories that eased the pain. So what is different about losing a dog?
With a dog there is little conflict. There are no upsetting arguments or words spoken that cannot be taken back. A dog seems willing to allow a do over, not always the case with us humans.
A dog doesn’t talk back. Tell it to sit or stay and it does so without asking why or stubbornly refusing. Sure, those positive responses require a bit of training, but the effort is rewarding.
A dog always loves you best. Sure, it made cozy up with other people, but there’s no question about where its loyalty lies!
It occurs to me that the defining factor in a relationship between a dog and its person is that it is nonjudgmental, particularly on the dog’s part. Never does a dog find fault. As long as it’s fed and cared for, all it offers is unconditional affection. That in itself is a gift not always given or received.
So, do we always think about these things when a much loved dog is with us? Maybe not, but they sure run through your head when that big or little one is no longer waiting at the door.
Lulu's Musings 
Nice
Never enough hugs… either way.
I feel your pain. Although I’ve always had cats, I’m a major animal lover. I see a dog across the street & I have to go pet it -they’re like magnets to me. Bunnies, deer, even coyotes in the wild – they all have souls and feelings too. If only the rest of the world knew…
Ah, I bet animals sense your affection and return it.
Linda, I’m just catching up here. COVID has hit the Bausch house. Spencer will go in the guest room during the day with Leon and sleep in our bedroom with me during the night time. They become our best friend and feel our pain. I’m sorry to hear about your loss. My heart hurts for you.
Linda I am so sorry for your family’s loss xo
Each day is getting a little better.
I still miss my girl, but I can’t go through it again even though there is so much love to give xo
Sooty for your loss. Years later, I still miss my two dogs.
Yes, it’s hard to get used to an animal being gone.
I am so sorry to read your post just now. I know the depth of loss that it brings to you.
We are still getting used to Maizy not being here.
I’m sorry to hear about your loss. Dogs are such special companions, the lack of their presence leaves a big absence.
How right you are, Grace. It will take a while to get used to Maizy not being with us.
She lived out her life within the charmed circle of your love.
I hope it felt that way to her.
I’m so sorry to learn about your little shih tzu Mazie, I know she will be terribly miss.
We miss her every day. Thanks for your thoughts.
I cannot tell you how sad this is even for those of us to whom it has not happened. The very thought…gut wrenching. Dogs are so incredibly special and loving, even if a little stubbornness does mysteriously kick in every now and again. They have such great and deep instincts. They know when we are happy, sad, angry…they are a compass of sorts. I’m deeply saddened that your baby took flight. I hope fond memories can sustain you through your grief. When all else is lost, memories keep us afloat. Take care.
You got it right, Alycia. Love for a dog is different from that we have for humans.
I am so very sorry… it’s so very hard.
Sending you lots of hugs.
Thanks, Nancy. It is hard.
Linda, so true. Dogs really are family.
Sent from my iPad
>
How right you are!
dog = god
Can earthbound humans know any greater blessing than a dog? Even a cat succumbs to its warm charm, undaunted spirit, and unconditional love.
My heart knows your sorrow, the rainbow bridge leads to eternal joy – please adopt when your heart opens again to love so deeply. Life is so much richer when enjoyed with a furry friend.
Right now we don’t know what we will do, but you are right about life being richer with a furry friend.
I feel, and know, your pain.
So very sorry for you and Phil.
I am so very sorry Linda and Phil.
I am so sorry, losing a pet is devastating, all that unconditional love…we had a beloved shih tzu named Sherlock Bones and when we lost him I told my husband, no more dogs, I can’t go through that again, too hard! I hope your heart heals soon and you can dwell on the sweet memories…
Jenna
Oh, I am so so sorry Linda and Phil. A big hole in your hearts left by one tiny dog. I always knew rhatsummer was finally arriving in Maine when I would see Big Phil walking up the street with tiny Mazie on a leash. 😘😘Susan
Sent from my iPhone
>
I pray you will soon fill that hole with happy memories My heart is with you❤️
Tonight in my dreams I’ll tell Kirby to find her
Oh, so sorry for the loss of your loving companion…
A good dog will make an ordinary life extraordinary. Their love is unconditional and unlike humans, they always put themselves second.
It’s unconditional love!