Losing a pet is an experience filled with heartache, and in our Facebook community, stories of beloved Chihuahuas passing away have become a poignant reminder of the grief that comes with saying goodbye.
It’s a tough part of life, one that leaves us grappling with a void where our fur babies once were, taking a piece of our hearts with them.
The Process of Grief
Grieving is deeply personal, and there’s no timeline for when you might start to feel “better.” Healing doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s okay to let yourself feel the full extent of your loss.
Over time, you’ll find that the pain eases, allowing you to cherish the memories with a smile instead of tears. Yet, the sense of loss never completely fades. I still cry sometimes over the dogs I lost 40 years ago.
It’s crucial to express your feelings rather than suppressing them. Grief can manifest in unexpected moments—like breaking down at the sight of your dog’s toys or their leash. This intense sorrow is a normal part of the grieving process. Allow yourself to experience these emotions fully.
Unfortunately, not everyone understands the depth of losing a pet, often diminishing your pain with comments like, “It was only a dog.” However, your grief is valid, and sharing your feelings with those who empathize can be incredibly healing.
There are dedicated pet loss groups, such as this one on Facebook, that offer spaces to connect with others who truly understand.
Facing Euthanasia
The decision to euthanize is heart-wrenching, often accompanied by guilt. Yet, it’s a compassionate choice when the quality of life has declined. Staying with your pet during their final moments can provide them with comfort and reassurance, letting them know they’re not alone.
If possible, consider at-home euthanasia to make their passing peaceful and in familiar surroundings. Services like Lap of Love can help you find a veterinarian who will come to your home.
My last dog that died was a black border collie named Roxy. She had cancer that had spread throughout her body by the time they found it. When she started showing some signs of discomfort, I knew it was time to let her go.
I had a vet come to my house to put her to sleep, and though it was heartbreaking, it was also beautiful and peaceful. They put on some soft, calming music, gave Roxy some treats, and then gave her an injection to relax her.
Roxy lay in her own bed with me beside her, stroking her head. She peacefully fell asleep, and then she was given the injection to stop her heart.
I decided the next time I have to have a pet euthanized, I want to do it at home again. It was the best experience possible for her and for me. She wasn’t scared at all.
What to Do After Your Pet Passes
Options for your pet’s remains include veterinarian disposal, burial at home or in a pet cemetery, or cremation. Choosing what feels right is a personal decision that honors the memory of your pet.
Understanding Pets’ Grief
Do pets grieve? Yes, they can exhibit signs of confusion or sadness after a companion passes. It’s essential to provide them (and yourself) with extra love and attention during this time, helping each other through the grieving process.
They may seem more needy or may just seem depressed and won’t want to eat or play. Cuddle and love on them as much as they will allow. If you notice their weight dropping or the grieving is going on for too long, contact your vet about it, as they may need medical intervention.
Supporting Children
Children may struggle with understanding death. Be clear and honest, avoiding euphemisms that can confuse them. Encourage expressions of grief, such as creating a memory book, which can be a therapeutic activity for them.
This is a great book to read to your children about pet loss.
When to Welcome a New Pet
Rushing into adopting another pet can hinder your grieving process. Give yourself time to heal before considering a new addition.
This waiting period allows you to grieve fully and prepare to open your heart to another pet when the time is right.
I know from personal experience that getting a new pet too soon after the loss of your previous pet is not a good idea. When I was in my 20’s, I tragically lost my 2 Yorkies at the same time. I was a basket case, and my parents, in trying to help me, bought me a new Yorkie puppy before I had healed enough from the loss of my other 2.
I was never quite able to bond with the new dog as I had with all my other dogs, and I believe it was because I got her too soon. I feel bad about it because it wasn’t fair to her.
Remembering Your Pet
Creating a memorial, like a photo collage or a garden stone, can be a comforting way to keep your pet’s memory alive. Donating to an animal shelter in their name is another beautiful way to honor their legacy.
The photo below is a cabinet my friend has that has all her memorial things from her beloved pets that have passed. It brings her a lot of comfort.
The pain of losing a pet is profound, but you’re not alone. Many of us have been through it and found ways to cope and eventually heal. If you’re navigating this difficult journey, remember that it’s okay to grieve, to remember, and to take the time you need.
Navigating Your Grief
- Do pets grieve when their sibling dies? Yes, pets can grieve the loss of a companion. Watching for signs of grief and providing extra comfort is important.
- What to say to someone who lost their dog? Simple expressions of sympathy and understanding are most meaningful. Acknowledge their loss and offer support.
- What to do if my dog dies at home? Consider your options for handling their remains with care, whether it’s burial, cremation, or speaking with your vet about other services.
- Why do I miss my dog so much? Dogs are family, providing unconditional love and companionship. Missing them deeply reflects the strong bond you shared.
- How long is normal to grieve over a lost pet? Grieving is a highly individual process. There’s no “normal” timeline—take the time you need to heal.
Have you experienced the loss of a pet? How did you cope? Your stories and insights can offer comfort and guidance to those going through similar losses. Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below.
ALSO READ:
How I grieved over the loss of my dog
Should you cremate or bury your dog?
Cathy Bendzunas
Pet Blogger
I just lost my Tink Tink Wednesday. The pain I feel is sometimes unbearable. My other chihuahua is also grieving. She hunts for her and cries. I know she doesn’t hurt anymore but I miss her so much
I’m so sorry Carol! I know how hard it is for you and your other Chi. Hold each other close and hang in there.
I am so sorry for your loss Carol. I know exactly how you feel from my own experience. God bless our babies and hopefully we will be with them again.
IMy fur baby died in March while having an op ,it has broken my heart .
I’m so sorry Suzanne that you are having such a hard time of it. I know how much you loved your little one.
Would you ever consider getting another?
I, too just had to make the hardest decision ever. Having to euthanize my chi, Woody Wu. He had diabetes. I have2 other dogs that r grieving too. Especially my German Shepherd who is 8 yo and was his best buddy.
I’m so sorry Cindi!
@Carol, I FEEL YOUR PAIN, I LOST MY LITTLE SANCHEZ ON JULY 30TH OF THIS YEAR AND I CALLED OUT FOR HIM THIS MORNING BECAUSE FOR JUST A MOMENT I FORGOT. IT STILL HURTS BUT IN TIME IT GETS EASIER (SLOWLY BUT SURELY). PRAYERS YOUR WAY
My Coco passed almost 3 years ago.. My little girl was with me day and night. She slept on my pillow next to my neck, so, you know I miss her so much.. I had her cremated, and she will be buried with me when I pass away.That is my request.. There is not a day that I don’t think of her, and miss her..
I’m sorry for your loss Shirley. Coco sounds like she was a special little girl!
I am sorry for your loss Shirley. I also have my Jessie’s ashes and just like you, I have requested that she goes with me when I pass away.
My adored Jessie! Still miss her and cry each and every day. Never forgotten and forever in my heart.
What a precious little Chi Sylvia! Her eyes are so soulful. I’m so sorry you lost your Jessie.
Thank you so much for your comment Kilosmom! And, yes, she’d speak to me with her eyes. Even though I am with Itty Bitty now, who has been a blessing to me, i still remember and miss Jessie every single day. Thank you again for your understanding and support!
Grieving over the loss of a pet is hard. I lost 3 fur babies within 2 weeks of each other. They were 15, 17 and 18 years old. They weren’t “like family”, they WERE family. They were my kids. I loved them as much as I love a human. I didn’t think the pain could ever go away. But I agree with the author of this post- with time the pain does lessen. I don’t burst into tears now when I see a picture of them… or an old toy… or their collars. I smile at their memory. They passed away 2 years ago. I can say it took a full year for the sting to go away. Yes, I still miss them. I always will because I love them. To honor their memory, I planted a perennial flower garden. I smile each spring when the new plants emerge from the ground, and I think of my sweet pups. We got a new puppy about a year before our 3 girls passed away. I was worried that the new puppy would stress the other girls out. But, as it turns out, they welcomed her into the family with love. Our black lab was like a mother to her… always protecting her from the other 2… and even leaving a few morsels of food in her dish for the puppy. When the 3 older dogs got sick, the puppy knew. She would bring their favorite toys over to them. When they would just lay there and not play she would just lay down beside them. It was heartwarming. I regretted never getting a nice photo of the 4 dogs together. So this year I surprised my husband with a special Christmas gift. I had an artist do a slate painting of the 4 dogs together. She did an incredible job. I love the painting because when I would look at pictures of my dogs, I would always associate the picture with the place where I was when it was taken. With the painting, the background is neutral- and the dogs are ageless. So when I look at the painting, I just remember my girls as they were for the majority of their lives– sweet, loving and playful.
Oh wow Stephanie! That has to be really hard to lose the 3 of them so close together. I’m so sorry. I love your idea of the painting though. I bet your husband loved it.
I am sorry for your loss, Stephanie. That has to have been extremely hard. My loss is more recent, and I am of course still in the grieving process. I know time will help. Glad you had the picture painted and I know you will treasure it like you did your babies.
I lost my 5 yrs old Chico tragically 8 yrs ago. I was a basket case. I literally just stayed in bed crying. (Tearing up now). He was my 1st dog and when he died it was like my baby. But eventually I opened my heart back up and have 3 wonderful loves. Even though we know eventually this is a reality anytime we have a pet, it is still difficult.
I think it’s harder too when it happens suddenly in a tragic accident. I’m glad you have 3 new little fur babies Diana.
I lost my beautiful Tammy just a week ago, I cry daily for her. We now have her ashes in a beautiful timber box with her photo on it and a clipping of her hair also sits inside the box. The other night I was stood at the kitchen sink washing up when I felt her wet nose touch my leg… I know she is still here with me, watching over me.. Miss her so much :'( 20/08/2000 – 21/10/2016
Tammy was beautiful Sharon. I’m so sorry you lost that sweet little fur girl. I have heard so many stories of them coming back after they have passed, I do believe sometimes they do. I wish a few of mine would visit me. That has to feel comforting.
I lost my husband on June 6th, and then lost my little boy Keltie 5 weeks later. Talk about a double kick in the pants. I have my good days and my bad days, and I’m sure that will continue for a good while. Keltie was 15, and his organs were all failing so I had to have him euthanized. Although it was a tough decision and I have second-guessed myself, I really do feel that it was time. After watching my husband slowly wither and die (he had cancer) over months, I just couldn’t let that happen to Keltie too. My husband did not want to die at home, and he ended up being in a Hospice facility when he passed. Keltie died at the vet’s office with me and my daughter both holding him and loving him during the procedure. Then we continued to hold him for about 1/2 hour. My vet has a separate room set up where that procedure is done and you can stay in there with your furbaby as long as you want. It’s been a difficult 6 months, but like I said – I have good days and bad days. Fortunately, more of them are good. My other chi Kissy Girl has had some separation anxiety since I lost my husband and Keltie, so 4 months after losing Keltie I adopted another furbaby who I named Duchess. Duchess is a sweetheart, and although all of Kissy’s anxiety hasn’t disappeared I do think she’s doing better having a companion. Sometimes when I get the blues and start crying, I see Duchess looking at me like she just doesn’t understand but wants to comfort me anyway. Of course she doesn’t understand – she never met either my husband or Keltie! But she still wants to comfort me. I had both my husband and Keltie cremated, and their ashes are side by side in my bedroom. The company that handled Keltie’s cremation also took Keltie’s foot and made me a plaster ornament with his footprint in it and his name under the footprint. The little wooden box is very nice, and they also included a sprig of rosemary for remembrance.
That is a lot to deal with so close together June. I think you are doing very well considering. I’m glad you have your girls to give you comfort.
Thank you,
I lost my baby Molly three weeks ago she died on vets op table ,I’m lost with out her ,she helped me with my depression .she was like a child getting up on my knee for cuddles ,she knew what I was saying to her.i don’t know how to move on I’m so sad . Suzanne Monty
I am sorry for your loss, Suzanne. I lost my little boy in July, and it still hurts. I guess it always will. I am fortunate that I had another little dog to comfort me and help me through my loss. I just take one day at a time; that’s all any of us can do. I pray you find peace.
So sorry you lost your little fur boy too June.
I’ve been wondering how you were doing Suzanne. I’m so sorry you are having to go through this.
@Suzanne monty, I know it says 2017. But I just lost my baby girl. She was 18. I had to put her down. My heart is broken. I’ve had lots of dogs and loved every one of them. But Sophie I got at 6 weeks old. Had her 18 years sleeping with me going everywhere with me. She was my baby. Helped me threw depression grief of parents etc. I don’t want to do anything but cry and curl up in a ball. Trying to go to work and I’m miserable.
I lost my mini pom Barklee yesterday. He was having bladder stone surgery and he did good but during recovery he passed away. I feel so guilty that I wasn’t there to comfort him. I cried so much my eyes are puffy. He was my first dog and I treating him as a baby. Coming home is so lonely not hearo my him bark and howl at me. My other dog is so sad sleeping in Barklee’s bed. I cannot get myself to take his bed out. It’s hard.
I’m so sorry Amber. I know how hard it is to lose a fur baby. Barklee was probably still unconscious while in recovery when he passed so he didn’t know you were not there.
You sound like you are a good mom to your pups and take very good care of them so they know they are loved.
Take your time in getting rid of his bed and if you other dog wants to sleep in it, keep it for him. It may comfort him to do that.
I lost my Chi Chi last year on 12/30/16. She would have been 15 yrs old Feb. 2nd. not a day goes by that I don’t think of her and cry she used to sleep next to my head by my pillow. That year was supposed to be our first Christmas and New Years in our new home and we were looking forward to a very nice Holiday but it turned out to be awful she got sick with pancreatitis and then we got the call to bring her back she had diabetes and had to get her on treatment. Needless to say her little body shut down she wouldn’t eat or drink anything and we finally had to put her down. She was bleeding internally from the meds because she refused to eat anything. I feel like I killed her if I would have just changed her diet and stopped at the meds from her pancreatitis I feel like she would still be here. She had gotten better with just those meds she no longer was pee peeing everywhere and was eating and playing. My Chi Chi’ s brother Pepe was also grieving for her looking all over for her so we went to find a new puppy for him so he wouldn’t be lonely . My husband and I had her cremated and our request is to take our Pets with us also when we pass. I don’t think I’ll ever get over my girl she took a piece of my heart with her!!
Chi Chi looks like a happy sweet little girl.
You can’t blame yourself for her death Simone. You aren’t a doctor and you did what you thought was best for her with the information you had at the time.
I just lost my boy last week. It kills me to the core. I had him almost 17 yrs and I miss him terribly. He was with me through my depression, the worst time of my life. He licked my tears, cuddled closer and gave me love in abundance. I’m lost without him. I had to make a decision that I knew wasn’t the best for me but my baby needed rest. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. His whole family was present. Mom,dad and 2 sisters. We all miss him. I’m having to get counseling because I don’t know how to function. I feel guilty when I eat because I would let him have a taste of what I would eat. I have another fur baby that misses his brother. I can see it’s hurting him too. I know our babies don’t live forever but I don’t think anything could have prepared me for this. I miss my baby. I’m sad. I’m broken. I love you Peanut, my loyal baby.
I’m so sorry Viviana. I can tell you are hurting a lot. You did the most selfless thing you could for Peanut and I know he wouldn’t want you to be hurting so much for him. He will be forever in your heart.
@Viviana, I feel the same way.
I have dealt with a lot of death in my life. Close family members and friends, including my dad to cancer when I was 14. None of it prepared me for losing my fur baby a few days ago. I have never felt grief such as this. It is a whole body and mind encompassing grief. And the guilt. My mind stumbles over the last year of her being sick (enlarged heart and a lung issue) and ends on her last few hours. Did I do enough? Did I do something wrong? She was happy and healthy in every other way until the end. I knew it was coming but it happened so fast. I know I should be thankful for that. That it came on strong and in a matter of hours she was gone. The final traumatic moments probably lasted minutes but it felt like hours.
I walk around my house looking at all her spots. She was my shadow for 10 years. Comforting me through my health issues and chronic pain. She slept next to my hubby and I, in the middle. Got tastes of almost everything we ate. Went bye-bye everywhere. She was my baby. The other deaths have tought me that I will survive. But this hurts so much. So deeply. There are no words. I love you Chica and I always will. My pretty baby.
I am so sorry Tiffany. Chica was such a beautiful little dog and I know she had a good life with you. You have nothing to feel guilty over. You aren’t God and there’s only so much you can do.
I don’t envy you right now. I know how much it hurts and how hard it is to go through. My thoughts are with you.
Thank you. Today I am glad I stumbled upon this. To know I am not alone in this grief is helpful.
I’m glad you found us too Tiffany. You definitely are not alone and we all understand what you are going through. Chica was not just a dog. She was your fur kid.
Words cannot describe the amount of sorrow I felt reading what you wrote. Chica was my sister. It might sound bad to say, but she was closer to me than either of my siblings. I miss her daily and I think about her even more now. I had a feeling it would be the last time that I held her when I left to move to Georgia. And I cried. I felt guilty for crying about the dog but not worrying about anyone else…When I was visiting Georgia in January I broke down about Chica to Daulton, and that I’d have to lose my horse too. I did everything in my power to get even closer to her and spend the most amount of time I could before I left, like taking her to Ace Hardware because she wanted to go bye-bye with me. She never wanted to go anywhere with anyone but you, so I felt I needed to take her if she wanted to. She followed me around and laid with me a lot more than she used to. I enjoyed it a lot and it made me feel very loved. I tried to do all I could to help you guys figure out what was wrong. Sometimes there’s nothing you can do but make them live a happy and comfortable life for whatever time they have left. Loss is a part of life and you can do everything in your power to prepare yourself for it, but it doesn’t help. Chica Marie was different than any other dog I’ve had. She was a little person and was unexplainably special to me. She still is. I love you Mom.
-Your Daughter
Chica sounds like she was a very special little dog.
I’m just seeing this sweetheart. I love you so much. Thank you for this. I miss her furry face daily. She was special that’s for sure. Never had or met a dog like her before. She really thought she was a human! Love, Mom.
Some dogs do seem more human than dog, don’t they?
Oh yes. Both my husband and I have been around dogs our whole lives. His parents currently have 4. Neither one of us had encountered a dog like her before. Right from the get go she seemed to understand more. Words and actions. My hubby and I truly believe she was a gift from above. Precious.
I had to have my little Maggie put down Wednesday morning. She was with me for 15 years plus my wife do 33 years divorced me about a year ago.
Maggie was about to suffocate due to heart and respiratory issues.
I stayed with her when the er vet euthanized her. It’s hard to unsee since it was. 3 days ago. I feel hollow inside, but I couldn’t leave her when she was so scaired.
This sux.
Gary you are very brave and loving to stay with Maggie when she needed you the most. You have had several traumatic losses lately so take it easy on yourself. It takes time for things to get better. It will help if you get some help, someone to talk to like a grief loss group or a counselor.
My son and his family just had to have one of their dogs euthanized a couple days ago. The vet came to their house for the procedure. Their 4 children (ages almost 5 to almost 11) were there while it was being done, so they were able to say goodbye to Jack. It has been hard on the kids – Jack was older than all of them, so they’ve never been without him. They are having him cremated, but haven’t gotten him back just yet. Jack was 13 or 14 years old, which is fairly old for a border collie mix. I know they will all miss Jack; he was a special dog.
Yeah that is tough for kids to lose a dog they have known their whole life.
I’m glad the euthanasia was done at home and Jack was surrounded by the people he loved the most.
Sugar was almost 10 she developed epilepsy 5 years ago resolved by seizure guard herbs found online. Two weeks ago i fell depressed the election, my husband lost job, stressed i didnt see her i fed her chunks of meat and dry food always out. I didnt recognize night seisures she was suffering she died. Im crying lost reaching for her throughout the night. She saved me many times with her fierce companionship. Im 61 she died young im so sad i could have saved her if i paid better attention. Feed frequently small portions keep her blood sugar stable. Feed herbs. Feed properly. Looking back she was trying to get my attention. I was depressed now lost. I will miss her. I pray Jesus is holding her and saving her for me.
Tears
I am so sorry Kimberley! That is so hard and to have guilt and depression on top of grief, it’s just a lot to bear.
There’s nothing I can say that can help you, although I have been there too (2 of my dogs died 30 years ago because of an oversight of mine and it was very hard to forgive myself).
THANK YOU, I LOST MY LITTLE SANCHEZ ON JULY 30TH OF THIS YEAR AND IT STILL HURTS BUT ITS SO NICE TO KNOW OTHERS CARE OF HOW MUCH WE LOVE OUR LITTE CRITTERS
I’m so sorry Jessica!
My sweet Buddy passed away August 25th. He would have been 13 on Sept. 5th. It was quite unexpected even though he had CHF for over a year. I held him until he took his last breath. I miss him terribly and am so lonely without him.
I’m so sorry Joan! It’s so hard to lose them.
Hello!
I once had a birthday for my bulldog who was turning 7. My husband was out of town and I was lonely. So I had a few family members over. We had a fun day. I am sure Boomer felt special. He was a big boy who was white. My family members brought him gifts. We had hot dogs, potato salad ( which I made), and I ordered a cake from a bakery. I bought prizes. We played pin the tail on the doggie. Enjoyed the day and will always remember it with fond memories. 2 of my family members are gone now and also Boomer. Now I have a chihuahua mix. Love him to pieces. His name is Pablo.
That sounds like a lot of fun Sue! I would love to go to a party like that.
The Day one’s pet departs is a Day like none other-total devastation ! I joined a Pet Loss Forum and assisted greatly, reading and replying to others who also hve a void.That was 6 years ago and after losing Perry at 16y I framed his photos and displayed all through the house with candles at each photo and to this day I carry on with this tradition, I even have his photo when I open my phone.A member of the Family indeed. I have read where when ”that time comes around”, NOT about US anymore, ABOUT THE COMFORT AND WHAT IS BEST FOR THE PET COME THAT DAY. Each to their own as to how to grieve, we all cope in different ways. I waited a year and rescued a Deerhead Chihuahua-Nicholas, was 9y then and a Happy 14y old, totally devoted, there is never enough time on earth for them. I CHERISH EACH AND EVERY DAY, HUGS/KISSES DAILY. The CYCLE of Life….SPeciala times to Treasured Memories for us all.
That’s wonderful Sherry for adopting an older guy. They are often overlooked. And for being so active on the grief forum and helping others!
thanks for doing the article on grieving for a pet, we had to put Riley down almost 3 years ago, and I still miss him greatly. about a year after Riley, our 14 1/2 year old chi, went to heaven, my husband really wanted to get a mini Aussie, I did not want any more dogs, but he has been wanting for this type of dog for years, so he got one, I can’t stand this dog, I have as little as possible to do with him. I do still have little Miss Jazzy, she is a 15 year old chi, and very much the diva of the house, she doesn’t care much for Patch either. Jazzy always make me laugh, ever since we got her at 8 weeks old.
I feel kind of bad for Patch. He doesn’t understand why you and Jazzy don’t like him. I’m glad though you still have Jazzy.
I have been able to bury my dogs in the garden. Two Cocker Spaniels and my first two Chihuahuas. They all had wonderful temperaments and I feel privileged to have owned them. I grieve for a long time but both then and when the pain gets easier I find their graves a comfort. Only this morning, I sat on the garden swing and in the beautiful sunshine, recalled each of them and the joy they gave us. If I am spared I plan to bury three more when their time comes. My daughter’s old dog and my current two Chihuahuas. And who knows how many more……………..
I have done the same thing. We have lived in this house since 1992 and most of the pets that have passed, have been burried in my back yard. Even my little sigar gliders.
It has been nearly two years since I lost my beloved little girl, Bella. (You honored her in your post, and I thank you so much for that.) I have cried every single day since I had to let her go. My grief has not abated. My therapist says Bella was my “soul dog,” and there is no time limit on grief.