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Dear Dish-It, My Dog Is Dying

Advice for teens about dealing with the loss of a pet.

Advice About Losing A Pet

Dear Dish-It, is here to whisper "ttyl after I've thought about this some more".

Dear Dish-It,

Hey, I'm 13 years old and I have a dog that I've had ever since I was four years old. He's sick and dying, right before my eyes. I get depressed and very sad every time I see him like this. He lives at my grandmother's house now and I don't see him very often. What can I do to help him and feel better about what's happening to my dog? Thanks!
SiLeNtTeArZ

Dear SiLeNtTeArZ,

Peeps without pets (otherwise known as PWP) can sometimes be insensitive to those who are dealing with the loss or sickness of a pet. But, it really shouldn't be treated any differently than the loss of any other loved one. We grow extremely close to our pets, especially when they have been a bigger part of our lives than most of our friends. What you are going through is totally normal. No one likes to see someone they love in pain and we certainly do not want to lose them. In this situation, the best you can do is spend as much time with your dog as possible. You could get him a treat that he wouldn't normally get, play ball with him or just hang and let him know that you're there - he'll feel better when he's surrounded by people who love him. Also, take lots of pics so that you can post 'em around your room, in your locker or anywhere else you want. Remember all the good stuff about your dog and be thankful for having nine great years with him - I promise, this will get easier!

So, ya gotta burnin' question? Need some love directions? Thinkin' 'bout stuff like depression, sex,how ya feel 'bout YOURSELF (that's called "self-esteem"), boyfriends, girlfriends, losin' old friends, bullyin' or peer pressure, but too scared to ask the parents? Don't be scared to .