How do you tell your child? (puppy, lost, red, dog)

[jrsydevil82]

We’ll it’s time to put our elderly yorkie down. We are bringing her to the vet this afternoon, then we will pick up our 3.5 year old from pre school. I’m sad but I know it’s time. I’m so nervous about having to tell my daughter. I ordered a picture book so we can flip through it and see pictures of the yorkie when we miss her. I want to be honest with her and tell her exactly what’s going on. Anyone have experience with this? Thank you

[gus2]

Honestly? She probably won't be that upset.

When telling my kids that someone died, they were very nonchalant about it. It's not that they are uncaring psychopaths but rather they don't entirely understand what it means at that age. We just lost our foster puppy, and even my 7yo talks about it like it's nothing. "It's raining today. I like peanut butter. My dog died. My favorite show is Miraculous."

So my advice is to be matter-of-fact about it and let her steer the conversation. Be prepared to support her, but don't insist on it. And be prepared for no reaction or even one that seems a bit cold.

I'm sorry for the loss of your sweet yorkie.

[jrsydevil82]

Thank you. I do remember dealing with death more easily at 4 or 5 years old. My friend told me the same thing you did.