Loss of my best friend

Hi everyone, today my 18yr old dog, Ivy, passed away. She was suffering from kidney failure and we were battling it for the last few weeks. Though the vet gave up hope, I continued to pray and believe she could make it. I cannot describe the emotional pain and feeling of loss I’m experiencing right now. She had a truly beautiful soul. A few months ago I had a herniated disc which had me lying on a mat on the living room floor. Getting up from the floor had me in intense pain, however Ivy would see this and literally stand beside me to support me as I got up. She was my joy and comfort for so many years that I am feeling a sense of deep loss without her. I keep listening for her footsteps and looking for her to pass by. Everyone keeps telling me her time had come due to her age and I should understand this and feel comforted, but I don’t. Can anyone help me with dealing with this grief?

Thank you, Andy

Andy,
I am sorry for your loss. I also just lost my 16 yr old dog, Tootsie to cancer and old age. I understand what you're going through. Sometimes I get up to let her out- only to realize she is no longer there. I am missing her dearly.
18 years is a lifetime! You must have done a great job taking care of her. When we own a pet, it is almost always temporary, as they will never out live us. Our pets are just passing through our lives, providing friendship and memories...
I find it helps me to close my eyes and look up to the sun. Sometimes I can feel her presence and everything seems okay.

I hope you find peace.

Ed

Dear Ed,
I am also sorry for your loss. Having been a part of our lives for so long makes it difficult to give up habits we came to love. Thank you for your advice. I find myself looking up to the evening sky to find peace she is in a better place. I hope you find strength and peace as well.
Andy