Definitely take your time to heal. For me I keep being sad until I have another dog in my life and then I transition to remembering the good memories of my lost pet. I don’t know how common that is, I wonder if that’s where some people are coming from. I’m hoping they’re coming from a supportive place is all I’m trying to suggest. All in all, the only valid approach is the one that works for you. Your tattoo is fire. So sorry for your loss.