I grew up with Koko. She was the first dog I really loved and I became reliant on her through hard times during my teenage years. She was my rock. As I grew up, I learnt to rely on her less, but the joy I had from spending time with her never diminished. She always has been and always will be a part of my heart and a part of my family. Losing her was losing a family member.

Thankfully, all the people in my life understand the close relationship that I have with my pets. I didn’t have to justify my grief, or my need to have her ashes back with me. I know there are people out there who would question why I needed to spend extra money on having her cremated when she is already gone, but those sort of people don’t have a place in my life. I only have room for people who understand that my pets are my life. In no way do I need to justify to anyone my grieving process, and I hope that you never feel that you do either.
“Rest in peace Koko, you are no longer by my side, but you will be forever in my heart”
Loving a dog is so different to just owning a dog. They are a part of the family and their loss leaves a large hole. That hole can never be filled, but I do hope that those of you out there in the same position that I am right now, will consider adopting a pet in future. The loss of your loved one can mean something, as you will be able to save a life of a pet who needs a home. Your new pet won’t fill the hole that the last one left, but it will help you heal. There is nothing like having a warm snuggle with a dog when you are feeling down.
Special thanks to Lorraine from Pitter Patter Photography for letting me use the photos of Koko. Lorraine was kind enough to take photos of Koko for me just after she was diagnosed so that I would have photos to remember her by.

6 Comments
Sorry to hear of your loss. Such a beautiful photo set and memorial post
Xx
<3 <3
I am so sorry for your loss. I 100% know have you feel about the closeness of a pet. I grew up with my cat, and she is my whole world. Like you, she was there during difficult times. She is 16 years old now and I fear I don't have much time with her. I also plan on keeping her ashes (as I did with my other cats). You are so lucky that you got to have such a beautiful photo shoot with your pup. Amazing photos to remember her by.
They are amazing photos. The ashes certainly help me with the grieving process. I hope you have a lot of time left with her. I'm sure you will cherish every moment and send her off with love when the time comes, that's what matters x
My heart bleeds for you, Alinta, as I know what it is like to lose a pet you've loved as part of the family for many years. I know the pain will never really go away, but it will ease as time goes by, and as you said, maybe adopting another dog will help to ease the pain. My prayers are with you, and may Koko rest in peace. Love you, sweetie, and wish you peace, love, joy and freedom from pain.
I think I'm full for dogs for now – while renting anyway lol If I can buy a house one day then I will happily become a crazy dog lady (I'm not far off now, I know) lol