If your GSD or pet must be helped to his/her death, be there with your pet. Let your arms hold your old friend so that the last thing your pet will remember is your love, not fear.

Grief is a natural reaction to the loss of a loved one, whether it is a pet, a spouse, friend, or family member. The best outlet for grief is venting and a good, hard cry. Talk to people who understand your loss, not someone that may be insensitive and say "it's only a dog".

The next step is to keep going forward, if it was a loss of a dog,  sometimes the best thing is getting another dog, preferably a puppy. You will never forget your old companion, but your new companion will keep you cheery for the next 10 to 15 years.