Our pets are special to us. They bring joy and laughter, provide comfort and companionship, and can even give us encouragement and inspiration to keep on keeping on. These attributes and others make them family members. So, when our pets pass over the rainbow bridge, it can be a devastating blow to the whole family.
Sadly, though, dealing with the passing of a pet is part of having a pet. And, if children are going through the grieving process, it can be even more of a struggle. But there are ways to make coping with the loss a bit easier to do.
Dealing with the Loss of a Pet
Because losing a pet can be especially difficult, don’t think that you have to simply move on as nothing happened. Here are some ways to help cope with the loss of a pet.
- If children are in your family, take time to explain the loss of the pet in terms they can understand. Death is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to be scary. Also, let them know that being sad is normal and that you are grieving, too.
- Grieve. It’s ok to take time to grieve and acknowledge the various emotions that go with loss. It’s unrealistic to expect household members to nonchalantly act as though things will continue as they were before.
- Consider having a ceremony or service to honor your pet. If you have children, let them be involved in the planning of the service, as it can help bring closure and peace.
- If you have other pets, be sure to keep their schedule(s). Be sure your other pets are eating and that you spend some extra time with them. It is not uncommon for other pets in a household to notice when one of their own is no longer with them.
- Take time to reflect. Some people find it helpful to journal the journey of the pet’s loss or record favorite memories. Others find just looking at pictures helps out. Whatever it is that helps you smile and remember the happy moments- make time to do it.
- Look for ways to calm yourself. Be it yoga, reading, hiking, meditation, etc., find something that helps you slow down.
- Don’t feel foolish for needing outside support. Whether a pet support group or talking to a therapist, talking to someone as you work through your feelings will make the process a bit easier. A few organizations to check out are Lap of Love and the Rainbow Bridge; for a national database of pet grieving organizations, check out Red Rover.
- Write a Thank You card to your pet and talk about your favorite memories, how much he/she will be missed and what you are most grateful for.
- Don’t feel like you have to get rid of your pet’s things immediately. Do this at your own pace -not someone else’s.
- Develop a new routine. Consider a new walking trail or route, pick up a new hobby, etc., whatever it is that helps you heal and brings you joy – as well as helps keep your mind a bit occupied.
The grieving process is different for everybody. For some, it might only be a matter of hours, while for others, it might be days/weeks. Regardless of the amount of time, don’t be ashamed of it. If you need to cry- then cry. It’s ok to grieve- and remember, you aren’t alone in your loss.
