The love and bond most people share with their pets are irreplaceable. As such, the grieving process is always challenging, and losing a beloved pet is always hard to accept.
If you have lost a pet and are dealing with the pain of grief of losing your pet and need a few pointers to help you through the process, you are in the right place. In this article, we will outline some ways to cope with the loss of your pet.
What the loss means to family members
When a pet dies, the loss is often keenly felt by all family members, who frequently, at one time or the other, cuddled, played with, and bought treats for the pet. The chances are that the family celebrated the pet’s birthday. In return, everyone got warmth, comfort, and loving companionship.
Such a loss is difficult, and finding ways to console yourself and cope with the sorrow individually and as a family is essential.
The grieving process after losing your pet
Grieving the loss of a pet is an entirely different experience for everyone and also an individual experience. No two people have the same experience.
However, most people go through almost the same stages of grieving. There’s often the initial denial as they struggle mentally to accept the inevitability of death. Then comes anger at an unknown entity, a raging at the forces of death that took away such a beloved pet.
Afterward comes guilt, then the onset of often prolonged depression, before the eventual acceptance and resolution.
Suggestion for coping with the loss of your pet
Here are some ways to cope with your pet’s loss.
Reach out to people who have also lost their pets.
Rituals like organizing a funeral where family and friends can fully express their feelings can help with healing.
Do not let anyone tell you how to feel. Deal with your feelings precisely the way you know how.
Seek professional help if necessary
Maintain the usual routine if you have other pets.
Coping for family members
Every family member has a different bond and memories with the pet. Therefore, it would be difficult for each member to deal with and a process for every member.
Some people find it easy to deal with grief, while others do not. However, everyone is entitled to their process and must be allowed to grieve the best way they know how. Here are some tips for helping specific family members dealing with pets loss
Tips for seniors
The death of pets hits the elderly more than any other member, especially those staying alone. The best ways to cope as a senior are
Find new meaning and source of joy in your life
Stay in touch with friends
Try exercising
Tips for children
Children may find it confusing and somewhat challenging, but you must help them through it as parents. Some of the ways to help are
Reassure them
Don’t hide your grief from them; express it.
Involve the child in the memorial preparation
Don’t rush to get a replacement
Other pets
Even though your other pets are not humans, they will undoubtedly feel the loss of the dead pet. They’ll often be visibly distressed, refuse to eat, or develop issues that ultimately need a vet’s attention. The best way to handle them is to give them love and attention during this time.
Getting another pet
Although you might be inclined to, speedily acquiring a new pet is not the best choice, and neither is it fair to the memory of your deceased beloved pet.
Instead of rushing to acquire a new pet, allow yourself to grieve and come to terms with the loss. When you feel mentally ready, you can then adopt a new pet from a local rescue or animal shelter.
Memorialize your pet
Have you lost your pet companion and are having difficulty getting over it? At River Valley Gateway, we understand the bond you shared and are dedicated to helping you keep the beautiful memories of your pet alive.