Goodbye Hannah.

How do you explain the death of a pet to your kids?
Poor Hannah, my sister-in-laws dog, died two nights ago for some unknown reason. She was young, she was healthy and she was wonderful with the girls.
They remember her still, even after such a short visit, and call every dog that looks even a little bit like her "Hannah".
So yesterday, when I got the call from Lou, I was sad on a lot of levels. For me it brought to mind the idea of losing Dudley and also the sadness of having to try to talk to the girls about death.
Granted, my children have been exposed to death and seen it up close, but for me to try to explain it, to even bring it up made me nervous. Not knowing what they would understand and fearful of what kind of memories and fears might resurface, I was cautious.
As I began to talk to them about Hannah, the immediate recognition of who she was became apparent and their sweet little faces saddened as they began to understand that she was gone.
It didn't take more than 10 seconds for both of them to find Dudley with their eyes and ask if "Dudley all gone?". I reassured them that Dudley would probably be around for a while but that one day he would die too. As I explained it and it sunk in a little bit more I saw tears well up in Macie's eyes as she began to understand. I reassured them and watched them process all of it.
Both girls gave Dudley a hug and recovered, but asked about Hannah a few more times throughout the day, wanting to make sure they understood. They were worried about Dudley and relieved to see him alive and well when we came home last night.
I love my dog. He is our first baby and a vital part of this family. I can't imagine losing him.

I am so sorry Matt and Lou. Big hugs from back East.
RIP Hannah. We love you.