“Losing a dog is like losing a family member.”

Do you feel the same way if you’re a pet owner and have lost one?

Dr. Rachel Mc Hugh, Research Associate in Mental Health at Letterkenny Institute of Technology said that:

“The death of a beloved pet can be hugely traumatic and overwhelming. For some people, it can be as traumatic as losing a friend or family member. This is often downplayed and sometimes misunderstood. It is only understood when someone knows exactly how it feels and has had a pet in their life for a period of time, who they loved as part of their family.”

The 39-year old American country music singer-songwriter and actor, known professionally as Jake Owen is in mourning.

This is after the untimely death of one of his beloved dogs.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CRZ7MAXlEEO/

Jake revealed what happened to his German shepherd dog in an emotional Instagram post on Sunday, July 11:

“I lost one of my best friends last night unexpectedly.. the drs said his stomach had ‘flipped’ and even with emergency surgery, it wasn’t enough to save him…”

What causes dogs’ stomachs to flip?

When a dog’s stomach flips, it means that the dog is bloated, caused by gas.

Experts and veterinarians aren’t certain, but the following factors may increase the risk of bloating. As mentioned in Alpha Paw, some of these are eating quickly, having one large meal, and increased physical activities after eating. It may also run in the family (genetics).

And without prompt medical attention, the dog could die in a matter of minutes or hours.

“I didn’t even make it home in time to say goodbye,” Jake mentioned.

Meet Jake’s best friend named Slash.

Slash was the musician’s youngest and sweetest most loving dog, as he described it.

Jake said that he was more like a human than a dog.

“While my other pups would run free across the farm, Slash just wanted to be by my side.”

Now, that’s a true man’s best friend.

The most heartbreaking part of Jake’s message is when he says:

“Losing a dog is like losing a family member. It was hard for me to even put this post together and share. Go love on your family. Go love on your dogs. See ya up there in Slashy. Love ya buddy. 😢”

Following his announcement, Jake received an outpouring of love from the country music community.

“So sorry buddy! 😢,” said Chris Lane, while Chuck Wicks added, “they’re for sure family members.”

Karen Fairchild of Little Big Town also commented, “So sorry Jake!!!” Jon Pardi expressed, “Sorry bud! That’s a tough one.”

Someone else had a similar experience.

“We lost our first shepherd from the same thing. It was heartbreaking. Sending love to you and the family.”

Jake’s followers were deeply saddened, and all they can do is pray.

“I’m so sorry for your loss of your fur baby. Stomach torsions are unpredictable and very hard to fix. Although the loss is breaking your heart, know that he is no longer in pain. Sending prayers to help you through the loss of your pup.”

There are no words to express how heartbreaking it is to lose a dog, as you are losing a family member.

Please SHARE this with your friends and family!

Sources: People, RTE, Alpha Paw, Instagram – jakeowenofficial