Hey sam, I am Z. A year ago on May 15th my dog had to be put down, he was my best friend and i couldn't have asked for a better one. My parents told me i was brave to watch him die but actually it affected me deeply.
I miss him. I cant help it anymore and i think he's the reason i may, many months later, have depression. I always talk about getting a new dog because i don't want Parker (my dog) to hang over me. What do I do? I knw there are letters on here much more important than this but i just need to know because it's really affecting me.
help?
Sam
Hello,
All of the letters that I read are important and Im so glad that you took the time to write to me.
I can hear how important your dog was in your life and its understandable that you still miss him so much. He was your best friend and losing a pet can hurt as much as losing a relative or a friend.
Remembering a significant date can be very hard and could bring up lots of different thoughts and emotions. Youve been feeling depressed. The memories of being with Parker as he died are still having a big impact on you.
Its important to remember that these feelings will change over time and starting to talk about them can help instead of keeping things bottled up.
ChildLine made a short film about a young boy remembering his dog that died. Sometimes it can help to see what other young people say in similar situations and to know that youre not the only person feeling this way.
Nothing can replace your memories of Parker or the special relationship that you had together, but beginning to think about what the future could be like with another pet in your life could be a really good way for you to start to feel happier again.
Remember you can always talk to a counsellor if you need to and I hope they hear from you when youre ready.
Take care.
Sam
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