Loss of service or support animal
The bonds of caring, trust, and loyalty to a canine partner or a support service dog are very strong. When they die, you, your family, and your colleagues may an enormous sense of loss. They were a consistent day-to-day loving presence, and it is natural that their death will be felt deeply.
Some people may understand the depth of your grief, while others may imply it “should not be this hard” or “last this long.” There is no right or wrong way to grieve this death or carry this loss, and the experience will be different for everyone.
How this loss may affect you
- Day-to-day activities may be difficult because you are reminded of their absence, for example, missing their enthusiastic greeting.
- Your sense of purpose may be affected if you no longer have them to care for.
- You may miss their physical presence, playing with and patting them.
- If they were ill or injured, you might feel relieved that they are no longer suffering in addition to your sadness and other feelings.
- You may feel guilty, particularly if you weren’t present when they died, if you blame yourself for their death, or if you had to make a decision to euthanize them.
These are all natural and common responses.
What you can do if you’re supporting someone
- One of the most important things you can do is to acknowledge the loss and their grief.
- Try to be a compassionate listener. Don’t assume that you know how they are feeling. Be open and let them know you are there for them.
- Offer to spend time together. Ask if they would like to talk or just like to be together.
- Ask them about their K-9 partner or service or support dog, and their favourite memories, or to see photos if they would like to share.
- Remember that grief changes but is something you carry with you. Check in during times when their service dog may be especially missed.
Strategies: What may help
- Acknowledge how this loss affects you and how you feel.
- Talk to friends and family who understand.
- Identify ways to honour their life. For example, create a memorial ornament, display photos, make a donation in their honour.
For more support
- Visit this link to find support groups and counsellors in Canada who specialize in this type of grief counselling.
- AboutGrief.ca
- Ned's Wish is a registered charity committed to supporting law enforcement and the Canadian Armed Forces by providing financial and educational support to enhance the quality of life for their K-9 retirees in Canada.