Dog's and Death of their person?

[papbouv]

Not sure if I should write this or not just wanted some thoughts or experiences my sister husband is dieing of cancer at home they rescued a Boston terrier about 5 years ago the dog has always been my sisters husbands dog.The poor Boston's belly has broke out in a rash my sister thinks it is because of all the stranger's going in & out.Hospice is there often checking on the husband.Has anyone had a dog around when the person that the dog is most connected too dies,should the dog go into the room after the person passes on ? will the dog automatically know the person passed on, Should the dog be allowed up on the bed with the person after they passed.Thanks for any ideas or thoughts.Papbouv

[doxielady5569128]

That's a tough one!  When my aunt passed away of lung cancer (at home) we let her dog smell her and lay with her on the bed.  I think that helped him understand that she was gone.  He mourned her for a long time, but all the extra attention he got helped him feel better.   I'm so sorry to hear you are having to deal with this.     I'm praying for you and your family!       

[cheryl186]

I too am so sorry you and your family are dealing with this and I will be praying for all of you.  This is a tough one and I wish I could offer some suggestions but I have not had any experience with this.  I do feel that Amorette has a good suggestion. 

[papbouv]

Thanks for the responses  My BIL passed yesterday my sister kissed him goodbye and let the Boston sniff his hand he did not want up on the bed?Papbouv

[doxielady5569128]

Thanks for the responses My BIL passed yesterday my sister kissed him goodbye and let the Boston sniff his hand he did not want up on the bed?Papbouv

I'm so sorry to hear of his passing.   I think the dog knows what is going on since you let him/her sniff your BIL's hand.    Sending prayers for all of you!!   

[cheryl186]

You are all in my thoughts and prayers. 

[David C.]

I'm sorry to hear about your brother-in-laws passing.   Yes, our puppers do know when their hoomans pass, or even fellow puppers.   When I lived in my condo, we had the neighbor in the adjoining apartment pass on in his sleep.  That day, our dogs were acting strangely muted.   We didn't make the connection until later.    When I've brought back the empty collar when one of the puppers went to the bridge the puppers sniff the collar and they knew their friend was gone.