Good question: Always relevant; My cousin had to do this last week. Listening to her, being able to talk about it without a tear in her eye, as I wept. Have had to do it several times. Have a few in a pet cemetary and a few in a box (cremated): Still digs up old feelings when the topic comes up; On the bright side, I have a recent addition: when I figure out how to post, will post in pet pics thread;
Anyway, they say psychologically-the best thing to do is get a new pet asap: AS, I have done this and can assure you, the work of a new puppy and training, gets you busy on your new goal and seems to help a great deal! I lucked out with my new addition; first mixed breed I've had and I just love her! Fills the immediate empty hole-in the long run. The only thing I can say in addition is: It is always better to do it before you feel guilty you waited too long! I am sure I did with one pet, as I felt her life diminishing while the vet prepared the medicine-I was sure she was fading in my arms of cardiac arrest after a long struggle with pancreatitis. The guilt will always live on. The only comfort is in the fact she was wiggling her tail and walking in the front yard the evening before and I stayed up all night with her trying to decide, when: By that time-I realized, she most likely was having some mini heart attacks and seemed to have mild seizures throughout the night, even though she recognized me-she never appeared to be in pain. Perhaps, that is how our little friends 'take care of us.' If only I had perceived her time was there, when she was comforting me. Now, my new little friend has all the best traits of every pet I've ever had. Plus, I decided on just one pet at a time, instead of two. It sure makes my new little friend different. Always thought they needed another 4 pawed friend. Boy, was I wrong. Not that 2 pets aren't better than one-it just suits my needs better.
The other thing the professionals rec; is to have a plan for the demise of your pet when the day comes-you will be preparred. After my very first loss-I had a plan (as I had read the professionals recs prior tho the unexpected passing) so I had a plan and just went into auto-pilot, even getting a new pet 2 days later. It took months before I could speak or tell anyone of his passing. Not that it gets easier, but having a plan for that day-is the best thing!
A thread that remais relevant to us all!