Friend's dog died

[girlnextdoor]

Help. My best friend's dog was run over a month ago. She is distraught. I don't know what to say but I am worried about her as she seems to be taking it very badly- she has no kids and doesn't work either and it has made her feel very lonely. How long should it take for her to get over it and is her behaviour "normal"?

Perfectly normal.

Pets become like members of the family and she will feel the bereavement just as badly as if a person she loved has died.

Go easy on her, and don't expect her grief to be any less just because it was "only" a dog.

if she has no children or job, her dog probably gave her a purpose in life.. a reason to get up, get out, and probably talk to people...
the loss on my dog would leave a huge hole in my life and I am a busy wife, mother and I also work part time....
just keep being there for her,

Oh yes, dogs can be very close to you. Awful when they die. Would she consider getting another one to help give her purpose again? They are great company when you're on your own.

Thanks- yes she is considering another one but she feels she needs a period of mourning first.
I don't know what to say to her, never having had a dog, and I suppose I am worried that she is going to get really depressed.

It sounds like you are being a really good friend looking out for her. Try to make sure she eats well and gets out and about. Greif is a lot like depression; if it doesn't improve at all in a month or so, then she might be slipping into depression.

yep, just wanted to say totally normal!

My cat gone run over 18mths ago and the grief made me lose my faith!! (i realise how ridiculous thats sounds!)

Just wanted to say a month is not a long time to get over losing a pet - give her 6mths I say before she thinks of getting another.

Thanks