Oh Mary, i'm SO sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved dog and that you are in so much pain right now !!!

We had to have our 14 year old Springer Spaniel, Ben put to sleep just over a year ago and it was SO hard and my RSD pain really flared up also. He was always there for me whenever I needed a hug and I think he always knew when I was having a hard time of it.

My mum and dad said that they weren't going to get another dog but it was so quiet in the house without one so we decided that we couldn't live without one and got another the next day! Our new dog, Jack is just the same as Ben and reminds me of him lots - he is always there for me - I think sometimes pets have a better understanding than humans!

One of the things that helped me when we had to have Ben put to sleep was to make a scrapbook. I put all of his pictures in it from him being a puppy to being big. It was hard to look at it at first but it did help. I also have a 'memory box' where I have his leash and collar, his brushes, favourite toys etc in it. It might be an idea for you to do that also - maybe not now but within time, when you start feeling better!

I'm sorry that you are having to go through all of this right now!! It's one of the hardest things ever to lose a pet as they are like family. I know that you did a great job in taking care of Chelsea though and she was lucky to have you as her mommy.

Take care of yourself and if you ever need/want someone to talk to, I am here for you!!