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

[Joanne Stark]

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