Dealing with a dog’s death

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Coming to terms with the loss of a pet is never easy. The death of a dog can affect people in the same way that losing a family member or close friend would. The American Kennel Club offers the following suggestions:

Grief should be expressed freely so the healing process can begin.

Make a conscious effort to be thankful for the joy your dog brought you through the years.

Spend time with people like other pet owners and your breeder, who can appreciate the affect your pet had on your life.

Seek out pet bereavement groups or a pet-loss hot line through your veterinarian, animal shelter or online.

If this is your child's first experience with death, make it clear the dog is not coming back, but emphasize that it is now free of pain. Let your child know it is OK to express grief over the loss.

Other pets in the house may also react to the loss of their companion. Give them extra attention.

Realize it may take time before you are ready to bring a new dog into your home. If you feel you might not be ready for a new dog but want to spend time with animals, consider volunteering with a rescue group.

-- McClatchy-Tribune News Service