If your dog has passed away

‘I didn't know you could feel so much sadness over a dog.’ Our dear designer Manouk is still a bit shaky from the passing of her mother's dog. I know what she means. When Bora, our pointer, who had been with us my whole childhood, was suffering from cancer and had to be put to sleep, I was inconsolable for days. I fell asleep with her photo pressed against me, didn't eat, and only played Crazy You by Prince because I apparently felt that song matched my love for Bora perfectly. It might be hard for people without pets to understand, but when your dog (or cat or other beloved animal) is gone, the absence is felt everywhere in your life. Therefore, here are the facts about grief, so you know you are not alone and that you can shape it in a good way.

1. 8.5 months
This is the average duration of the grieving period for your pet.

2. Grief for your animal can feel just as heavy as that for a human
Especially because your pet was around you all day, you will miss them so often.

3. It helps to give shape to your grief
Plan a memorial ceremony and buy a beautiful urn to put the ashes in.

4. You are not crazy
People who don't understand may think you are being dramatic. Look at this clip of actor Jimmy Stewart who wrote a poem about his deceased dog. I cried hard.

5. Read this book.

6. Talk to others
And especially with people who do understand.

7. Seek contact with other animals
Immediately ‘getting’ another dog is not a quick fix that will heal your wound and often is not what you need at all, but occasionally walking with a friend's dog or helping at the shelter can be healing for you.

And stay strong. We know what you feel.