A Great Dog Died Today - By Carine Hartman

Written By: Carine Hartman

Category: Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Carine Hartman, writing under the name Column6, brings us a deeply moving short story titled "A Great Dog Died Today." As part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, this narrative delves into the profound emotions surrounding loss and the enduring bonds we form with our beloved companions. Through her poignant storytelling, Carine touches on universal themes that resonate with readers across the globe.

About the Work

In "A Great Dog Died Today," Carine Hartman captures the raw, unfiltered emotions that accompany the loss of a cherished pet. The narrative is rich with introspection, exploring the complexity of grief and the quiet moments that accompany saying goodbye. The story's tone is somber yet empathetic, drawing the reader into a world where the simple act of digging a hole can serve as a means of closure.

Column6

Original Submission by Carine Hartman

A great dog died today.

I can’t tell you if it was a Patrick or a Patricia because I didn’t know him or her, but I know tonight a family is sitting in ashes because they had to end suffering.

“The weight loss; the hind legs were giving.”

So in between a hectic day I simple hear: “Got to go to the vet because I have to put my old dog down – but I’ll be back online at five.”

He was back online before five – and not a word was said about the pain.

We agreed much later when I clumsily tried to hug him virtually we’ll have a dop on “a great dog”.

And that’s when my inner voices woke up: I lost Beloved; my news editor; a little skating seven-year-old queenie died five days after she fell off her off her electric scooter; a missing man is found murdered; a 14-year-old girl is found hanging by her mother – all big deaths.

But that’s what my voices ask: are all these deaths bigger than saying farewell to a four-legged bundle of love who adored you for – at least – a decade?

Because let’s face it: death is big. Lost forever. And you can only try showing you beloved taking his last breath you love him by holding him. Close.

Four legs, two legs – it’s big.

I just hope he gets closure by digging that big hole.

It helps…

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, celebrates diverse voices and creative expressions from around the world. This esteemed event provides a platform for writers and poets to share their unique stories and perspectives, fostering a global community united through the power of the written word.

Thank you, Carine Hartman, for sharing "A Great Dog Died Today" with us. Your contribution to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 highlights the beauty and depth of human emotion. We appreciate your participation and look forward to seeing more of your heartfelt storytelling in the future.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.