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What really makes it such a tough time is because of two factors.
First, dogs are pack animals. They are happiest when they know where they stand in the "pack". That means you are the "Alpha" male and they are lower than you. This means that they will not show you when something is wrong due to the "pack" mentality regarding weak/injured members. They will hide it for as long as they possibly can.
Second, they are one of a few domesticated animals that show unconditional love for their human companions.
Knowing this doesn't lessen the pain, but it helps to understand how they can affect us so deeply.
Hopefully you will find a pet to fill the void in your life (not necessarily a "replacement" but a new family pet.
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