Pet Lovers With Ptsd...

[xena21]

I know no other pet can replace the ones that die but out there is a special one that needs you and who you need as well.

I agree. I am sorry about your kitten. What a horrible loss. I have a cat as well and I know the love cats have to share as well. My cat is about 8 years old but we have a bond as well. I can't imagine him leaving me right now...well particularly now after Abby being gone. Cats are amazing just like any animal is. Bonds form between people and its so genuine compared to human bonds sometimes.

I hate to say that human bonds are screwed up, but they are. I have found so much more satisfaction in my animal bonds than in my human bonds easily. There's no question that animal bonds bind tighter and are more trustworthy. I am trying to seek out more human bonds but past experience is such a bitch. I hope other people have better experiences and can find better people in there lives. I guess that's what I get for living alone right?

 

[xena21]

Wow, I can't seem to get over my dog being gone. It may sound trivial, but since I was a kid I haven't had relationships with people. I have been alone my entire life except with my dog. All I've wanted to do for the last few weeks is kill myself so I could be with her. I see her everywhere in my apartment. I don't see myself without her, because I don't have people in my life like most people do. I know a lot of you have boyfriends, husbands, girlfriends, etc. I have never even experienced that. Its a phenomenon to me. I have no boyfriends or family (except occasional visits from my Mom)...no friends that I really visit. My dog was my life for the most part.

I am afraid of people. Animals are my comfort. I now just try to deal with the sadness by dissociating and ignoring it. My nights are spent by drinking the thoughts away or self injuring. I wonder what is the point? What really is the point?

 

[Britt.f7]

@xena21 It isn't trivial. That is a huge loss. Allow yourself the grief, but drinking and hurting yourself does not help. That I know from personal experience. Maybe, when the grief has waned some, you can get another dog. Not to replace, but to comfort you. She would want you happy. Start by just looking at shelters. Then maybe going to one or two. Just to get an idea. You know when it will be time. Don't rush it. I made that mistake once. Caring for another animal will help ease the pain and give you purpose. I wish you well.

 

[xena21]

I wanted to update any who had followed this before. My dog, Abby had to be euthanized in July. She was a solid part of my life for 15 years. She listened to me and let me know she was there for me. Pet owners, you know what I'm talking about. There is not anything close to what a loyal dog can bring to you in a lifetime. The love they share is so expansive. It touches more than just you. I know my Mom and step father loved seeing her and he used to say how much he hated dogs...and then you would see him slipping ham or chicken to her. They are so amazing aren't they? I miss Abby so much. I really haven't been able to move on in the last couple months, and my therapists have been trying to think of alternatives.

The other day my therapist asked me if I would accept a service dog. She told me that as a person with a disability, the VA would be willing to help me get a PTSD service dog. It was a shock to me, because I didn't realize I was even allowed that consideration. I know there are people that have service dogs, one of my best friends who is blind has a tremendous one, but I didn't expect that type of offer. I am humbled actually, because I don't think I deserve that, but I also am sad that I just want to focus on my dog, Abby, and not think of anything for the future. I can't imagine any service dog being better than my dog I had for 15 years of my life. I guess I'm skeptical, but more than that, reminiscent of my awesome dog. Has anyone else dealt with this?

 

[KwanYingirl]

I've always had pets. I know how hard it is to lose a beloved dog. My present dog, Annie, is a PTSD service dog. She can't go everywhere with me like a seeing eye dog could, but she does go to work with me.

You can't replace your dog, but you can start a new relationship with another. I have been fortunate that my dogs lived long lives. That doesn't give much comfort when you're still so sad from your loss. Your dog has crossed the rainbow bridge and I'm sure he wants the best for you. Good luck.

 

[Britt.f7]

@xena21 make sure you are ready for it. I have one dog that I rushed to get after another dog of mine died and we didn't bond very well. However I waited some time after another one of my dogs died and I have a girl that I just adore. It isn't the same. But she is loved greatly. Give your heart a chance.