After losing a pet, many people think about when to get a new one. The truth is, after losing a pet, there is no wrong time as long as you are not trying to replace your pet that passed. Every pet has a unique personality, so it’s best to wait until you can accept your new pet as they are without comparison.
Science has proven that there is a special bond between humans and their pets. As a result, when you lose your furry friend, you will experience a sense of loss and grief. What you are feeling is very real and very normal. Remember, everyone experiences grief differently and the same is true for the loss of a pet. There is no right way. In other words, it is more than ok to feel what you are feeling.
Unfortunately, we don’t always get to define the terms of our pet’s death. We may be required to make difficult decisions and hard choices. For example, many people experience feelings of guilt when forced to choose euthanasia for their pet. It can help to remind yourself that you have prevented your companion from pain and suffering by making that hard choice.
Everyone grieves in their unique way and on their own personal timetable. No clock counts down and magically removes the pain and sadness at a particular time. Take the time you need to process your grief over pet loss on your terms.
Talking about the special times, you shared with your pet can help. Friends and family members who were acquainted with your pet and who, perhaps, share their memories can help you reminisce and remember the good times. If you don’t have someone close to whom you can talk, reach out to one of the many available hotlines.
Holding a special ceremony or ritual can go a long way in offering comfort. You can create a celebration that is as large or as small as you like. Invite friends and family to contribute and participate. You’ll get a chance to say a formal goodbye and celebrate the pet’s life.
There are many ways you can create a special memorial to your pet. From buying a unique personalized urn for display or having a garden stone made, you are sure to find a way to create a loving way to remember your pet.
One good way to navigate the difficult journey through grief is to find productive and healthy ways to occupy your mind and body. Activities such as walking and yoga are good examples. Creative activities can also offer a rewarding way to spend time. Visiting with friends and family, reading books you have meant to get to, and offering your time to volunteer are other good alternatives. The point is to do something that makes you happy. Doing these things doesn’t mean you forget your pet; instead, you are honoring their memory by improving your state of mind.
Remember that you are going through a difficult time. You may have been caregiving a pet suffering a prolonged illness or have experienced the shock of sudden death. You may also have had to make difficult decisions. Allow yourself to rest, and don’t be critical of the way you may have handled things. You are human and deserve a break. Give yourself the gift of understanding just as you would for someone navigating the difficult journey through grief.
Helping others in your family who are experiencing the grief of pet loss can also help you. Children, in particular, will need understanding and guidance in dealing with their sadness. Find activities for them to do that allow them to express what they are feeling. If you are holding a ceremony or funeral for your pet, be sure to give them a role in designing the activities.
If you are feeling overwhelmed and having thoughts that may be destructive, reach out for professional help. Many support groups and help agencies are available that offer resources for those experiencing grief over the loss of a pet. Please take advantage of the services they offer. You don’t have to go through this difficult journey alone.
