1. Dogs Die with Their Eyes Open
Dogs, like humans, pass away with their eyes open because closing the eyes requires active muscle control. This is a lesser-known but poignant fact about our beloved pets.
2. Hiding When Sick
When dogs are ill, they often hide. This is a defense mechanism to prevent predators from sensing their vulnerability. By the time an owner notices, the dog may have been unwell for several days or even weeks.
3. The Reality of Passing Away
Many believe that a pet's passing is peaceful, but it can often be a painful process lasting hours or even days, involving significant physiological distress.
4. Sensory Loss at the End
When dogs die, they lose their vision first, followed by their hearing last, similar to humans.
5. Post-Mortem Movements
After their heart stops, dogs may continue to exhibit breathing motions and muscle twitches.
6. The Oldest Dog Ever
The world's oldest dog was an Australian Cattle Dog named Bluey. Adopted as a puppy in 1910, Bluey worked as a sheepdog for nearly 20 years and was euthanized at 29 years and 5 months on November 14, 1939.
7. Heart Attacks in Dogs
Dogs do not suffer heart attacks like humans. Instead, they may experience a collapse phase often referred to as "syncope," "loss of consciousness," or "sudden death."
8. Animals and Funerals
Humans aren't the only species to conduct funerals. Chimpanzees and elephants have been observed burying their dead. Some dogs also exhibit similar behaviors.
9. Pets in the Afterlife
Ancient Egyptian Pharaohs believed in an afterlife for both animals and humans. Pets were often mummified and buried with their owners.
10. Dogs Share Our Ailments
Dogs can suffer from almost all human diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, and cancer.
11. Burial Laws
When a beloved dog passes away, many people choose to bury them nearby, such as in the backyard or garden. While this can provide great comfort, it may be illegal in many areas. Always check local regulations before burying your pet.
12. Mourning Their Companions
Some dogs will howl continuously when their companions pass away. While this can be a form of release for some dogs, others may not show any signs of mourning.
Understanding these somber truths about dog death can help us better prepare for and cope with the loss of our cherished companions. It's important to provide our dogs with a peaceful, loving environment and proper care throughout their lives to ensure they live as comfortably as possible.