When is the time right to replace a pet?
by Kitty Walker, LMSW-ACP
Dear Kitty,Hi, my name is Shawn. I'm 14 and from New Jersey. My dog, Holly, just recently died on July 7th and it was the only companion, friend, family member that I have ever truly loved with all my heart. She had a very rare blood disease and she got sick one morning, turned all yellow, and then died the next morning.
I didn't even have time to say good-bye. She was only 5. She was a great dog. She didn't have a mean bone in her body. She never growled or got angry with anyone. She always loved and knew when I was feeling bad she would make me feel a lot better. I thought I wanted another dog, but I didn't want to replace Holly and to my surprise my parents got a new 9-week-old puppy. It's only been in this house for three days but I hate it so much! It is the meanest dog I have ever met. It growls and bites and attacks and never cuddles (Holly always cuddled) I just don't want it in my house any longer and if it doesn't leave then I am. I truly hate that dog. I would sell my soul to get holly back.
I really wish that was possible, but it's not and I can't live without her. Is this feeling going to be with me the rest of my life? Am I ever going to be able to handle this? And what do I do about the puppy?
Shawn
Dear Shawn,
Please accept my condolences for the loss of your Holly. Sounds like she was your canine soul mate, a loss that you will carry with you for all time. It is really awful that she got so suddenly sick, then died with almost no warning. She was a gentle spirit and I can tell that you miss her more than words can say.
You are wiser than your parents in knowing there is no replacement for Holly. I fully believe that they were trying to do their best in getting the new puppy, but as you have stated, the comparison of the new one is jarring. If you had never had a girl like Holly, then perhaps the new one would have had a chance to win you over. I pray that by the time you read this, things have settled down and you are open to receiving a very different dog. I know and you know that you will not love this dog the same way that you did your Holly...however, I hope that you will give the new little one a chance.
I hurt for you and your loss. I also can tell that you have talent in writing. I hope that you will consider writing a tribute to Holly. It can be some thoughts and feelings and memories, to show how much you loved her. You can keep it to yourself or post it on our web site here at beyond Indigo.
This is a way you can say good-bye to her, since you did not have a chance to when she was alive.
Feel free to write to me anytime about your feelings. Holly was a precious darling, and I know that you miss her enormously.
My Best,
Kitty
“Dr. Yetter’s professional & compassionate care enabled us to have Lady as a member of our family for over 17 years. Through his knowledge, extensive research, and willingness to reach out, he provided Lady with a long quality life in spite of numerous health issues. We are eternally grateful.”
— Diane & Terry Svob
“Dr. Yetter and the staff at Prairie Ridge have given excellent care to my family of pets for about 20 years. I always feel comfortable asking questions and knowing I will get complete, caring answers. Dr. Yetter researches to find the best treatment options. My cats and dog are family to me, and we trust Prairie Ridge Veterinary Clinic.”
—Janis Blout
“We are so grateful for the hard work and extra research Dr. Yetter did for our Tansy-cat to find out why she wasn’t eating. If there is a time when your most precious friend is ill and you need to trust someone to care for them, Dr. Yetter is definitely that person! He went above and beyond to do everything he could to save our beautiful Tansy.”
— Tom & Bev Berberett
“My pets have been patients of Dr. Yetter and his great staff for many years, and I have always been grateful for their efficiency and helpfulness. Having good care right here in Havana is a big plus!”
— Jan McFarlin
“I began to bring in my labs into PRVC when I started working there, and was happy to have such a caring and knowledgeable doctor to take care of two of my best friends. It always amazes me just how much care goes into each and every animal, let alone the perseverance of Dr. Yetter and staff (I should call them family) in working out how to treat each and every problem.”
— Chris Johnson