Doing something good for other dogs, or establishing a ritual to remember your dog may help to ease your grief. These can include making a donation in your dog's name to a shelter or to support veterinary research into canine health problems; lighting a candle; planting a tree or flowers in your garden; or making a scrapbook or photo album.

Making a donation is a concrete way of ensuring that your dog's life stands for something. Lighting a candle on the anniversary of his birth or death, or choosing a specific day (such as November 1, which is celebrated as All Saints Day or Day of the Dead in some cultures) to remember all past pets helps focus your attention on memories of your dog. A plant or a photo album provides a visual reminder of the good times.

And when you are ready, you'll get another dog. He'll never replace your previous dog, but your heart and mind are big enough for an infinite number of special dogs.