Krissy from Midland, MI, asked:
Hi Julie,
My question has to do with a horrible accident that happened the other night.
My dogs and I have been staying with my son while my house is being repaired after a fire. He has an electric fence to keep the dogs contained.
I had been training my dog Bella with a leash and she was doing great. So, I decided to take her let her off the leash because I thought she was ready. Unfortunately, Bella ran through the fence, was hit by a car, and died.
My heart is completely broken. The guilt I feel in knowing I am responsible and the sound of listening to my son screaming as he was chasing her down the road until I heard the crash is unbearable.
I was hoping you could tell me if Bella is okay? Did she suffer? Do my other dogs miss her? Does she forgive me for not protecting her? Should I stop using the electric collar for my son’s dog Maggie? And most importantly, is there anything I can do to help my son? He puts on a brace face, but I know he’s feeling terrible and he can’t get the image out of his head. I don’t expect you to answer all of these questions, but if you could choose what you think would be most helpful it would be great.
I plan on scheduling a one on one as soon as I’m able.
Oh Krissy,
I am so sorry about Bella and can only imagine the grief you’re experiencing.
In order to get some answers for you, I connected with you and through you with Bella. Here’s what she said:
– First, Bella is in non-physical (spirit) form and is fabulous!
– Bella doesn’t want you to be sad because it was her decision when and how she died.
– Bella chose that way because it was instant and painless. She did not suffer.
– Bella said she didn’t want to hold you down and believed it was best for you to be flexible without having to care for her.
– Bella thinks it’s a good idea to continue to use the electric fence with your son’s dog Maggie. She just wants you to turn up the electric shock feature to deter her from leaving the yard.
– Regarding your son, Bella wants you to tell him that all animals (including humans) decide when and how they die. It’s all part of the master plan. She also wants you both to watch the movie “A Dog’s Purpose”. She believes the story/movie will comfort you.
– And lastly, Bella wants you to know she’s always around you. She also said if you think you hear her, you’re right. It’s how she lets you know she’s nearby.