Snoopy Sympathy

Dear Dog Lady,

Today while pulling into a condo community from the street, I accidentally ran over someone's beloved pet Schnauzer, Snoopy. Before I knew it, I saw a red leash and heard a yelp and realized the puppy had ran into the street while the owner's roommate had her hands full walking to the recycling bin. I immediately parked the car and saw that the puppy was hurt very badly.

A passerby told us of an animal hospital nearby, and we rushed there but there was nothing to be done. She had a broken back. I felt so horrible. It was an accident that could've been avoided had the roommate been in control of the young pup.

I stayed with the roommate at the animal hospital and then went to pick up
the owner from the nearby university where we both attend. I offered my condolences but feel it is not enough. I want to send flowers but I don't want to appear overly emotional or submit to any fault. I don't know what to do or how to feel about it.

The owner cried while signing the papers at the hospital and then I took both of them home. She had the dog for little over a year. I can't bring Snoopy back but I want to bring the owner flowers or something to show that I care about how this made her feel. What should I do? Any advice would be very helpful.

Lolita, Laurel, MD

Oh Lolita, how terrible for you and the grieving owner of Snoopy. As you describe the tragedy, your collision with the dog was completely unavoidable. In moments of human disregard, dogs do run into streets with bad consequences. You are not the one who dropped Snoopy’s leash. You just showed up at the wrong place at the fateful time. You are completely without fault.

Dog Lady suggests donating and planting a tree or shrub in the condo complex to mark the memory of Snoopy. Other dogs can spray their respects. A smaller sympathetic gesture would also be appropriate. It is very thoughtful of you to extend yourself with flowers or a card to ease the owner’s loss. Recently, while perusing the aisles in the mall greeting card store, Dog Lady was overwhelmed by the teary flood of the pet sympathy sentiments. You can find an appropriate card and add a handwritten note expressing your sorrow.

Lolita, comfort yourself by knowing you've already helped as much as possible in an untenable situation. You did not run away from the scene. You were not callous or indifferent. You rushed the dog to the animal hospital. You tried to be of assistance in every possible way. This incident will surely haunt you, but you should not be too hard on yourself.

Posted by Dog Lady at July 7, 2005 12:22 PM