Helping a child through grief

[Star and Goldie]

We lost our beloved Riley on Sunday. She was 14 years old and lived much longer than was expected. I had been preparing my 7 year old daughter for her passing for quite a while. But this has been much harder than I could have ever imagined. My daughter is not doing well at all. She is really struggling through this grieving process and I am struggling to find ways to help her through it. I am trying to be as supportive as possible while also understanding that I have my own grief to work through. It's a double dose for me. . I was wondering if anyone had any recommendations on how to help a child through the grieving process. This is both of our first times ever having to go through something like this. And it is really taking a toll on her. She has never known a day of her life without her sweet Riley.

We have read bible verses together, prayed together, cried together, made a memorial for Riley where she can write special messages to her when she misses her. I ordered a special pillow and blanket for her that has Rileys picture on it so she can cuddle with it. We've been doing extra special things with our other dog, Goldie. Besides these things, anything else that might help other than time?

[Star and Goldie]

Oh my that is so precious! Riley actually waited to pass away until my daughter said goodbye to her. My daughter knelt down next to her, kissed her head and said "It's ok Riley you can let go now. I love you" and then Riley took her last breath. It was the most touching moment. After the grave was ready, my dad and I wrapped Riley in a blanket and lowered her in and my daughter laid the first bit of dirt over her and actually helped bury her. It was so important for me to let her be a part of the process too. I didn't want to hide that from her and I could tell she was okay to handle it. I know that's a tough call to make- how involved to let young ones be.

[Nan Y.]

I understand. My 14 year old collie is getting tired. To help prepare my granddaughter, she lives with me,mom, granddad, 8 year old collie, 2 yearold doodle), i searched pinterest for answera, prayers rainbow bridge etc. Feel free to check my pins, run free, fur baby and old dog, old soul. If it would help, create one that says, Love, Riley. Nan and Jeter