Daisy May's Corner

Saying Goodbye to Daisy May

On Wednesday, my sweet, sassy, old lady golden retriever, Daisy May, was diagnosed with cancer. Just three days later, on Saturday, our hearts shattered into a million paw prints as we said goodbye to our love.

Losing Daisy May is the kind of grief that takes your breath away—the grief of losing your best friend, companion, confidante, and the reason for so many smiles. Now, those smiles have been replaced with inconsolable tears. Oh, how we loved her.

In her final moments, we surrounded her with love. At home, relaxed in her bed, in front of a crackling fireplace, surrounded by flowers and candlelight, the vet arrived. We held her paw and told her how much we loved her. We whispered that we would never forget her as she peacefully crossed the rainbow bridge.

Her loss is profound. It’s painful. It’s raw. Grief comes in waves. I found myself feverishly mopping my floors because seeing paw prints and wondering if they were hers brought me to my knees. This is what grief feels like—it’s real, it’s messy, and it’s okay to feel every bit of it.

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The Stages of Grief and Pet Loss

The grief we feel when we lose a beloved pet mirrors the stages of grief associated with any profound loss. These stages—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—are not linear. You may cycle through them, skip stages, or experience them all at once.

Denial: The disbelief that they’re really gone. You might find yourself expecting to hear their paws on the floor or their bark at the door.
Anger: Anger at the illness, at time for being so fleeting, or even at yourself for wondering if you could have done more.
Bargaining: Replaying “what if” scenarios in your mind.
Depression: The overwhelming sadness of knowing they’re not physically here anymore.
Acceptance: Finding peace in their memory and the love you shared.

Ways to Cope with Pet Loss

Grieving a pet is valid, and it’s important to honor your feelings. Here are some ways to help navigate this loss:
Create a Memorial: Dedicate a space or a ritual to remember them—whether it’s a photo album, planting a tree, or a special keepsake.
Share Your Story: Talk about your pet with loved ones or in a journal. Sharing your memories keeps their spirit alive.
Give Yourself Permission to Grieve: Acknowledge your pain and let yourself feel it.
Seek Support: Whether through friends, family, or pet loss support groups, connecting with others can help you feel less alone.
Focus on Self-Care: Simple acts like getting outside, eating well, or taking moments to rest can make a difference.

A Letter to Daisy May

Daisy May, I didn’t deserve you, my good girl. You were too pure, too full of unconditional love.Thank you for every wag of your tail, for every paw on my lap, for every moment you made life brighter.I hope you know just how deeply you were loved and how much we miss you.There’s an emptiness in the house, in my heart, that only you could fill.Run free, sweet girl. Until we meet again.