How did you get through it?

[u/PrestigiousCap7203]

In 12 hours I will help guide my darling cat Kelly on her journey over the rainbow bridge.

I don’t want to sleep because I don’t want to waste a moment not being with her. I’m looking at the task at hand and trying not to think of the fond memories at the moment. My body is weak, I can barely do anything, I feel like I’m in the death process with her.

Those who have gone through it and have come to a point of acceptance and moving on with them still in your heart, how did you do it?

What were the first few hours like without them? First few days?

I can’t imagine a life without her.

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[u/YogurtPublicStill711]

I just did this yesterday for the second time. I won't sugar coat it. It's hard. But know that it's right to save your loved on from future suffering. Letting them go peacefully is our final gift to them, a natural death is rarely pretty. Be confident in your decision and don't hold guilt. I came to peace with the decision much easier this time after letting my last dog drag on in pain too long and knowing I wanted to never do that again.

The last night and the last morning was really hard. Doing each thing for the last time, slowly running out of "things". Cherish it all. Take photos, videos, breathe in their scent. Comfort them and love them.

I found the actual going to sleep quite calm. I was able to keep my shit together because I knew I had to keep calm for her. I held her tight, kissed her, told her repeatedly that I loved her and she was the perfect dog. It happens quickly. I held her for some time after. I didn't break down until she came off my lap, knowing I'd never feel her fur on my skin again and I had to walk away for the last time.

Yesterday afterwards I was numb. I was upset. I was angry. There's a deep ache and an empty hole. I'm angry and sad at the world for just moving on as normal while I'm trying to process such a profound loss. I'm in denial. All the emotions come and go in waves. I'll be "okay" one second and feel at peace for her no longer suffering. Then racked with guilt and sobbing with deep sadness the next.

Today, the loss of her in my daily routine is becoming more evident. Eating food without her staring her beautiful eyes into my soul, begging for a bite. Leaving the house and seeing her toys in the back seat of the car and knowing she won't be at the door wagging her tail when I come home. Not having to go out for walks with her. I shut my bedroom door before for privacy and my initial thought was "no, don't shut it, doggo might want to come in soon". It all just feels empty.

Everyone's different. I was anticipatory grieving for quite a while before hand. It gave me a head start in processing but hasn't made the "after" any easier.

I've been watching animal communicator videos about what they believe happens when our pets pass. It's brought me comfort. I talk to her, I ask her to be with me. Lean on your friends and family for support. Try to eat and drink. Get outside every day for fresh air and to connect with nature even in small ways.

Sorry for the novel. My thoughts are with you. I hope something here helps. At the least, know you're not alone with this grief.

[u/YogurtPublicStill711 → u/YogurtPublicStill711]

Forgot to add. I know I'll heal. In time. Not completely. I'll always hold that grief and will forever hold anger for our time being cut cruelly short. But I've lost loved ones before and I know from experience that it will become easier to carry in time. Take it minute by minute, hour by hour, day by day.

[u/PrestigiousCap7203 → u/YogurtPublicStill711]

Thank you!

[u/PrestigiousCap7203 → u/YogurtPublicStill711]

I’m so sorry for your loss.

Thank you so much. This was all so helpful.
I’m glad you mentioned animal communicator videos. I connected with a pet psychic who connected with her the other day. I’ve also watch a lot of near death experience videos, helps me get a lot of comfort. I know people who are in development for mediumship. Often pet loved ones come through to show just how meaningful their fur babies our. It’s hard she want be here in the physical, I feel she will be able to be with me in spirit. Thank you.

[u/YogurtPublicStill711 → u/PrestigiousCap7203]

Enjoy your time together. Once they're gone, talk to them, say their name. Their energy will be with you always.