THE LAST GOOD BOY Coping with grief after a dog’s life
TV presenter Clare Balding has revealed her beloved dog Archie has died – leading to an outpouring of messages of support from her fans.
She announced the news on Twitter and shared a string of photos of the Tibetan terrier, who she cared for with her wife Alice Arnold.
Clare wrote: “I am so sad to tell you that our beloved Archie has walked his last walk. Broken- hearted but grateful to him for the joy he gave us, the places he took us and the friends he brought us. We miss him so much. RIP Archie 2005-2020.”
The Crufts presenter had previously said: “Archie is not an heroic dog. He is not even a particularly well behaved dog. But he is our dog and I love him.”
Psychologists recognise that feelings experienced by owners after their dogs die are comparable to those felt after we lose friends or relatives.
But not everyone understands that intense grief. And there is nothing worse than being told to pull yourself together because it was “just a dog”.
Leading charity Dogs Trust offers advice to pet owners struggling to cope with their loss. It says you should give yourself permission to grieve, taking as long as you need and crying as much as you like.
You should surround yourself with people you can talk to about your beloved pet as talking will help you come to terms with your loss.
Make sure you look after yourself physically and are getting enough exercise, sleep and food.
Services
And think about making a scrapbook with your photos and memories.
If you are really struggling, a pet bereavement counsellor can help you cope. Many animal charities, including the Blue Cross and RSPCA, offer pet bereavement services.
There are things you can do before you bid farewell to your beloved pet.
If you are warned that your dog may die, discuss options with your vet then, such as what you would like to do with your dog’s remains.
Making decisions after their death can be difficult when you are in shock.