The Doctors had a special episode recently where the producers asking Dr. Travis to talk about his best friend and canine companion, Nala.
The producers made Dr. Travis a special tribute video for his aging dog, to help him prepare for her passing (which he suspects will come soon). The show generally focuses on human health, but the panel decided that they’d like to cover the topic of losing a pet and how to prepare for the process.
The tribute video featured Nala narrating her thoughts about her life with her dad, Dr. Travis. The voiceover mentioned that Dr. Travis had rescued her from a shelter 17 whole years ago, and showed photos of their happiest and funniest memories in the years since.
Dr. Travis and Nala could be seen enjoying funny haircuts, awesome adventures, and a loving day-to-day life together.
The tribute had not yet been seen by Dr. Travis, and the video was so powerful that it moved him to tears.
Dr. Travis discussed his love for Nala, and her unconditional love for him. He said she’s been through every day of his journey through medical school, residency, and all that has followed. He expressed gratitude for her gentle and loving spirit.
He also spoke about preparing to grieve for her once she is gone. He plans to hold a funeral. He has also framed his favorite photos of her, but questioned whether or not that was the best thing to really do. He was assured by the panel that it is undoubtedly the best thing to do.
The panel also discussed Dr. Andrew’s loss of his dog Lulu one year ago. He discussed how it was a sudden event, and how he prepared for the end once he knew it was coming. He said that Lulu was like a family member.
Losing a pet can be extremely difficult to deal with. They become so embedded in our lives, and show us important things like unconditional love, loyalty, and selflessness. When they pass away, the loss can be devastating.
Psychotherapist Dr. Mike Dow joined the panel to offer advice to Dr. Travis and the viewers on how to handle this situation. He recommended doing what you can to just keep the memory of that animal alive, even when the animal no longer is.
Dr. Travis tearfully said that Nala is who he wished everyone could be. He thought about all the lives that she had touched, and exclaimed that she is so sweet that it melts his heart.
Nala unfortunately passed away just after this segment aired. Despite his great sadness, Dr. Travis still chose to share the tribute to his best friend with the world.
