Losing a beloved pet family member is different from losing a human friend or family member. Pets embody absolute loyalty and innocence, turning to us with complete confidence that they are loved. They are integral to our daily routines, and when we lose them, it feels like losing a part of ourselves.
This sense of loss can leave us feeling turmoil and helplessness, and in our extreme emotional state, we may feel compelled to take actions to soothe our anguish and pain.
Allow Yourself Time to Grieve
Grief counselors often advise that when experiencing the loss of a loved one, it’s crucial to allow yourself to feel your pain, talk about it, express it, and understand that this is a vital part of our human coping mechanism. You need to give yourself and your family the space to create a new sense of “normal.” This can be the hardest part, but it is essential for making sensible, logical decisions for the future.
If you have people who understand your feelings, talk to them about what you’re going through. If you don’t have such a support system, consider joining a pet loss support group. These groups consist of individuals who share similar experiences and can help you navigate the daily ups and downs of grief.
Finding a New Normal
Your life will never be the same without your beloved pet. It can feel as if part of your very core has been torn away. However, with time, you will begin to heal, and the pain can be replaced with happy memories. This healing process involves talking with others, sharing your feelings, and accepting the range of emotions you experience, including crying, yelling, and anger.
Honoring Your Pet’s Memory
One way to aid your healing is to honor the life and love you shared with your pet. This can involve small gestures, such as displaying photos as pet memorials, commissioning a portrait painting, or choosing memorial keepsakes like pet jewelry or pendants. Each of these actions is a personal step in your healing journey.
Avoid Rushing Major Decisions
An important aspect of giving yourself time is to avoid rushing into major decisions, such as getting another pet. Your heart may ache for the loss, and you might feel a strong desire to fill that void. This feeling is natural, especially if other pets or family members are also grieving.
Allow everyone the time they need to go through the grieving process. You will know when the time is right to welcome another pet into your family, and you can then focus on the love and joy that new addition will bring.
In the meantime, be patient with yourself and your emotions. Surround yourself with supportive people who understand your grief, and take the necessary steps to honor your pet’s memory as you heal. Visit Wags & Willows to download our free Pet Loss Support Workbook and shop custom pet memorials.