Dear Paulina,

I’m so sorry for your loss. People who don’t have companion animals often don’t realize how hard this is. In relationships as close as yours was with Natalie, the animal’s crossing can be even harder than losing a person, because it’s rare to have such constant companionship and total, unconditional love in human relationships. So, I understand and sympathize with your grief.

Natalie says she is happy and at peace on the other side. She enjoys her life there, which seems to involve a lot of running around outdoors and exploring. She says she plans to stay there another year or so before reincarnating, and hopes that you will wait until then to adopt another dog. However, if you really feel you need another dog now she’s okay with it, as long as you’re okay with having two dogs in a year’s time, and find a dog that will be compatible with a new puppy.

Natalie misses being with you physically. But, as the animals always tell me, she is with you often. She says she likes to watch you with your needle and thread - I’m not sure if she’s showing me sewing or needlepoint. Natalie is still connected to you, and rushes to you when you need her. She feels your sadness and is very sorry for your pain. She wants you to know that she loves you every bit as much as you love her. There are times when she wishes she could drop everything and rush back to you sooner, but she says the timing has to be right for her to reincarnate.

Natalie says she’s so happy you reached out in this way, because it gives her an opportunity to ask you not to be so sad. She is fine and loves you very, very much. She knows her physical absence is a great void for you, and urges you to fill that void with constructive activities. Perhaps volunteer at a local animal shelter - you might find that about a year from now you’ll meet a wonderful little puppy and fall madly in love. 

Again, I’m very sorry for your loss. It takes time, but healing and acceptance will come if you allow them. And, then sooner than you know it Natalie will return. She won’t be the same dog, so don’t expect that. But, she’ll love you every bit as much, and it will be mutual.

Many Blessings,

Jennifer Dickman