Grieving the Death of a Pet
No matter who we have lost, a beloved human being or a furry friend, the grieving process that must be endured is real. Letting go of someone or something into heaven’s arms can be a challenging and humbling experience. So often pets are there for us unconditionally during times in our lives when the skies are grey. Here are a few different ways that may help you move through the stages of grieving the death of a pet.
Understand That Its Okay to Be Sad
It is completely normal to experience extreme upset or sadness if your pet has just died because they are a part of your family.
Know That Everyone Grieves Differently
According to the Cleveland Clinic, there isn’t a “consistent way” that people grieve. The five stages of grief, are denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. People move through these stages in different ways.
Creating Physical Memorials
One of the best ways to honor a pet is to create a physical memorial. Get creative with it. Create picture collages to hang, or include a heartfelt poem or memoir that was written.
Support Your Family
This may be your kids’ first personal experience with death. Be ready to answer any questions your children might have about what happens next. Kids need extra love and support during this time.
Take Care of Yourself
It’s only natural for you to get a little stressed out when you have lost a pet. Taking care of your physical and emotional needs is highly recommended during this time. Spend time with those who care about you, eat right, get 8 hours of sleep at least, and exercise on a regular basis.
Know When You Need Help
Has grief over your pet’s death brought you down into a deep, dark place that you can’t seem to get out of? Don’t hesitate to get evaluated for depression by an MD or psychiatrist. There is no shame in reaching out for help.
Getting Another Pet After Death Occurs
Naturally, the idea is that if you can make a child smile with a new puppy, he will wipe his tears away because of the one that has just passed away. Though it is tempting to approach the situation in this way, it is best to give your family some time to mourn the old pet first.