An Swindon vet has shared the grief she felt when her dog died in her new book.

On October 5, Donna Wills began the launch tour of her debut book, 'The Best Goodbye', and a day later, she was at the Swindon branch of Pets Corner, in Stratton.

The book is a memoir about her love for her dog, Logan, and the grief she experienced when he died.

Nineteen years ago, she set up Animal Physiotherapy Ltd in Bracknell, and has since supported many pet owners through their own grief.

She said: "Logan was the most important being in my life for nearly half of my life.

Donna Wills with her new book, 'The Best Goodbye'Donna Wills with her new book, 'The Best Goodbye' (Image: Donna Wills)

"He stood by me through break ups and make ups, heart ache, and love.

"Through education, building my business, buying my house, getting married, having my child and everything in between.

"He was my world. When I lost him, I was devastated. Understandably so.

"Two years later, I was driving along and that same cold air hit my face.

"It triggered me. I was taken back to that cold January evening when we had to say goodbye. I shed a tear.

"I then told myself off and to pull myself together. I can't be crying two years later. Then I told myself off again... why can’t I be crying now?

"I loved him 16 years. I have lost him only two.

"My stomach churned as so many thoughts and emotions raced through my mind.

"If I felt like this, you can bet other people do too. I can’t be alone. I know I am not alone."

She said she began writing once she got home, sharing why she loved Logan and the "anxiety and worry" she experienced when he was getting older.

In her book, Ms Wills shares her experiences from the days following Logan's death and a list of things "anyone might choose to do to help them prepare for their best goodbye".

She added: "My hope is that in sharing this book with the world, it helps others know they are not alone.

"Their thoughts and worries are valid and shared. I hope it can help them take back a little control in a situation that can feel so desperately out of control.

"We need to talk more about grief and pet loss, not feeling alone in a desperately difficult time can help everyone."

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