Oh dear, I am so sorry for your loss of Charlie, and the distress it is causing Sophie. It is very upsetting to see a dog grieving. We had five Scotties at one time, all bitches, and number four girl Cassie absolutely adored number one Tessa, more than her own mother. When Tessa died at the vet we brought her home and allowed the others to see her. The others weren't bothered but Cassie nosed her and tried to make her get up, and then she sat outside the room where Tessa was lying until we could bury her later, and howled piteously. It was deeply deeply distressing. After that she became very depressed and looked for her everywhere. We washed all Tessa's things but she never really got over it.
And when the last Scottie was left, she also became depressed and lacklustre. Anyone who says dogs don't grieve is so wrong.
I don't know how you can help Sophie. I wonder if it would be better to let her have something that smells of Charlie, as a comfort? Just give her lots of love, I think she will settle,down eventually, but she may be very quiet for quite a while. I don't think she will be thinking that you are going to get rid of her, dogs minds don't work that way. Sorry I can't be more helpful, but it's not something that happens to every dog. I do sympathise with what you and she are going through though
Lesley and Dylan
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