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Posted by phtasha on February 28, 2003 at 18:42:28:

In Reply to: Two months, and still it hurts posted by phborzoi on February 27, 2003 at 19:53:53:

I have never had an animal affect me this long. . is it really worth it to risk this much pain and hurt?

I went into an extreme depression after having to put to sleep my first dobie-shepherd. He saved my life on one occasion, was my constant companion through various boyfriends, and was the perfect guardian and friend - ever constant, ever loving. In the violence of my grief I announced to my husband that I never wanted another animal again. I didn't want to hurt that badly or get so attached. Four months down the road I still felt the same....but my husband was getting concerned. I have never been without cats and dogs my entire life. His solution was to get me a dobie-shepherd pup to force me to reconnect. And dragged me to see the pups on the excuse that we couldn't disappoint his friends. This little girl marched up to me and claimed me and that was that - not for the grief for my old boy, but for the uncharacteristic closing of my heart. I have always thought that if you risk nothing, you gain nothing. I DO think there are animals out there to help you heal....and this feeling you have is the backlash from the pain of loss. It DOES get better, eventually. But a loving heart wounded bleeds. (((((Borzoi)))))

Tasha

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