@Heinz57:
He was only 3 1/2. He should have had plenty more years of laying in the sun, chewing up socks and underwear, stealing my food, hogging the bed, belly and leg rubs, and so much more.
It's not fair. I feel so empty. The house is empty. There's just this void. I didn't know it could be so painful. I keep picturing him all over. My memories are so fresh and vivid like it was just yesterday.
How do you get through it?
Oh, I am so very, very, very sorry. And you are absolutely right, it is NOT fair. not fair at all. You and him deserved a much longer time together.
And as far as getting through it, you just put one foot in front of the other. I don't think there really is an easy answer to that. I lost my beloved Digital almost a year ago. I can hardly believe it's been that long, but every day since, I have thought of him. Missed him. And still love him. And some days I still cry about it.
And yes, all dogs go to heaven. When Digital passed, I realized that all dogs really belong to the Creator anyway, so when they pass, they're really just going home. I know Digital, and Jet (my trying boy who passed in May) and your boy and all those other basenjis are there - happy and whole and free of pain. And sometimes they come back.
If you find you need more support, you may want to ask your vet if they know of a support group. I know here there is one through the local animal humane society. And your welcome here. Or you can email me privately if you need to.
And when you're ready, they'll be a pup for you, somewhere. I got a puppy for Christmas. But, because I wasn't emotionally ready for another brindle basenji, I got a brindle boy of a different breed. And Devon has been delightful and was the right thing for me. And someday, I'll get another beautiful brindle basenji, but not quite yet.