Anyone deal with Death of a pet?

Amaya (big DD) turtle died. He was 14 years old so she has known him all her life. We are all so sad becuase he had such personality--he used to snore and I would wake up wondering who the heck it was--it was Sunday the turtle.

Anyways what can I do to make this easier on her. DH said to buy her two turtles--one for her and one for Taylor-Chase--isnt too soon....I dont want her to feel like we are trying to replace Sunday. She's 8 and super smart.

Message edited 11/19/2008 10:59:05 AM.

Re: Anyone deal with Death of a pet?

I would give it a little time before going out and buying a new pet. She needs to grieve the loss of her beloved Sunday. Death is hard at any age, but especially when they are little. They don't always get the permanency of death..it sucks:( :(

I don't know whether it was good or not, but my daughter has been exposed to animal/human death since she was very little and seems to grasp the concept with little issue. But when the 1st occurance happened, she was devastated and confused. Did you try having a little ceremony to dispose of the pet/burial? That might help her to understand and grieve.

I'm so sorry for your girl

Re: Anyone deal with Death of a pet?

Yeah we are going to get dressed up--her request. She is so teary and keeps talking about him. BUT she did try to use him as leverage to get a new puppy...kids...

Re: Anyone deal with Death of a pet?

Our dog Doug died early summer this year. Emma, who is 6 knew that he died and we told her he is in heaven. She still says she misses him but that is the extent of it. Jeremy, 3, on the other hand keeps asking when he is coming home. No matter how many times we say he is in heaven and not coming home