[NAGDU] an odd feeling of loneliness or emptiness after retiring a dog?

[Roanna Bacchus]

Hi Joanne thanks for your message. I am so sorry that you feel this way. Try to focus on the good times that you had with your guide dog. Keep playing relaxing music during this difficult time.

On Feb 22, 2018 10:07 AM, Joanne Stark via NAGDU <nagdu at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>
> Good morning, NAGDU, 
> My dog retired almost two weeks ago after 9 and a half years of service. Due to the weight restriction for pet dogs in this building, I could not keep her. I am fortunate to have her nearby with a friend who was willing to adopt her, but at this point, I feel like something's missing. The part of my routine that involves caring for a dog is gone; I feel a bit lost. I am not depressed; I know I made the right decision for her, but ... I can't shake that feeling of, "Okay, great for her. Now what?" 
> I presume this feeling is normal? This is the first time I have retired a dog after such a long partnership, as the first dog I had was retired after only 8 months of work due to a very, very rare form of cancer. 
> Music, both playing and listening, has been therapeutic for me, but I need suggestions for other ways of coping with my emotional state. 
> Thank you. 
>
> Joanne Stark 
> Wisconsin Association of Blind Students President 
> Sent from my iPhone 
>
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