Parents must explain to their young child why the family dog must be euthanized and why it won't be coming home from the vet.

Where Did Our Dog Go?: Exploring Difficult Questions Together

Toby, a grey and white Miniature Schnauzer. His bushy beard and bushy eyebrows make him look wise. He is happy and sitting on a rug in a cozy living room.

Once upon a time, in a cozy house, there lived a playful dog named Toby. Toby had grey and white fur, and a bushy beard and eyebrows that made him look wise. The little girl in the house loved Toby more than anything in the world.

A Furry Friend

Toby lying down with a sad face, a thermometer in his mouth, looking older and showing he is not feeling well.

One day, Toby fell very sick. He couldn't run and play like before. The family noticed Toby was in pain and took him to the vet. The vet explained that Toby was very old and very sick.

A Sudden Illness

A worried family sitting in a vet's office, with focus on the vet's empathetic expression.

The vet told the family some sad news. Toby's pain couldn't be fixed, and he wouldn't get better. The family had to make a tough decision about what to do to help Toby.

Difficult Decisions

Toby looks older and sick. The daughter holding Toby's paw tightly, both surrounded by the family in a comforting hug.

The family gathered around Toby, giving him lots of love and hugs. They knew that Toby was suffering, and they didn't want him to be in pain anymore. The little girl held Toby's paw tightly.

Saying Goodbye

A serene room with a small bed where Toby is resting, surrounded by his family who are visibly emotional.

With tears in their eyes, the family said their goodbyes to Toby. The vet helped Toby go to sleep peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family. It was a sad moment for everyone.

A Final Rest

The daughter drawing a picture of Toby, with drawings of him and the family on the wall behind her.

Even though Toby was no longer with them, the family kept his memory alive. They talked about all the fun times they had with Toby and how he would always be in their hearts. The little girl drew pictures of Toby to remember him by.

Remembering Toby

The daughter looking out of a window with a drawing of Toby next to her, showing a mix of sadness and hope.

As time passed, the family's hearts slowly started to heal. They missed Toby dearly but knew that he was no longer in pain. The little girl found comfort in knowing that Toby was in a better place.

Healing Hearts

The daughter smiling and holding a new dog, Sparky, in a warm, welcoming home.

With Toby in their memories, the family decided to adopt a new furry friend from the shelter. The little girl named the new dog Sparky, and they welcomed him into their home with open arms. It was a new beginning filled with love and hope.