Often, the more sudden the death, the more difficult the loss is to accept. Anger and guilt often follow denial. This anger can be directed toward people you normally love and respect, including your family and your veterinarian. People will often say things that they do not really mean, perhaps hurting those whom they do not mean to hurt. You may feel guilt or blame others for not recognizing the illness earlier, for not being able to afford other types of or further treatment, for not doing something sooner, or for being careless and allowing the horse to be injured.
Depression is also part of the range of emotions experienced after the death of a loved animal.
This is when you usually feel the greatest sense of loss. The tears flow, there are knots in your stomach, and you are drained of all your energy. Sometimes you may even ask yourself if you can go on without your horse. The answer is yes, but there are times when special assistance may be helpful. E ventually, you will come to terms with your feelings.