Ren,
My most sincere condolences. It is a sad day, indeed, when it is tiime for us to let our beloved dog go the the bridge. Holding your dog during those last moments, looking into his eyes as he looks back at you with trust and love, and then knowing he has gone to the bridge, is such an emotional time. Tears running down your face. You know you've done the best thing for your beloved friend.
It is all that any of us can do for a friend who has shared his life with us, who has protected us and loved us and been a true member of our family.
I think the hardest times for me was the drive home, with my friend laying wrapped beside me. Gently stroking his head, knowing he can't feel the love you offer physically, but it still comforts you in your grief. Sobbing as you drive. The loss of these friends is so painful, but we must take comfort in knowing that we did what was right, we did not allow our friend to suffer.
I have a little cemetery on my property. When it is time for one of mine to go to the bridge, I dig a deep hole before going to the vet. When I come home, I lay him out on the living room floor for the other dogs to smell, or not, as they prefer. They need closure on where their pack member has gone. They know death.
Then I take my friend and place him/her in the hole I have prepared. I have placed the favorite blankets underneath and enough to wrap before burying. Then I have my own ceremony. I talk to my friend. I place a small bottle of water with him, in case he is thirty on his journey. A small baggie of kibble, to ease the hunger. Favorite toys so that he may have reminders of the games we played together. A stuff toy or "baby" that he was fond of carrying around. I place all of the items I think he might need on his journey or when he gets to the bridge. Then I gently cover him with his blanket. I then place plenty of wire or fencing to keep out wild critters.
All the while I am talking to my friend, sharing memories of wonderful times we have shared, gently crying and remembering. I light some sage, and slowly pass the smoke over the grave, wishing him a safe journey and promising to see him at the bridge.
Then I cover the grave, placing rocks over the top to further discourage foraging dogs and coyotes and critters. Over the next several days, I wander out to ensure the grave is not being disturbed. If it has been, I make sure to place even more rocks - heavier and larger - so that my friend will be undisturbed.
My friends who have gone to the bridge are all out there, side by side. I wander there on occasion, to visit and talk.
They are family. They lived as family, and died as family, and were given the same respects in death as any other family member. A proper burial and memorial, to be remembered always.
A fond farewell to a friend and family member who has served us well.
God bless you and your family, Ren, in this time of grief and sorry. Be comforted knowing that Doc is over the bridge, and is romping with the other dogs, and herding the young ones around. He will be there to greet you someday.
In deepest sympathy,
Judy