Losing a pet can be one of the most emotionally draining experiences a person can face. Grief is a normal, powerful emotion that needs to be honored and processed. But there are ways to cope with the loss of a beloved pet, such as honoring their memory and getting support from friends and family.
Allow yourself to grieve.
Grief is a normal and natural reaction to loss. If you’re struggling with the overwhelming sadness that comes from losing a pet, it’s important to take time for yourself to grieve. Some people prefer to express their grief through activities such as writing letters or creating artwork in memory of the pet. Others may find solace in spending time with friends and family or taking part in comforting rituals like planting a tree in honor of the pet.
Pet Memorial Gifts.
Dr. Julie Coffman emphasizes the value of honoring and commemorating the happy memories of a pet after its passing. She suggests pet owners remember the joy their pet brought to their lives through special items such as memorial stones, pet urns and having a memorial service or creating a memory box filled with meaningful mementos.
A Customer of ours wrote the follow feedback:
"I used to think that buying a pet memorial gift meant buying something expensive. Now I understand it is the thoughtfulness that matters the most. Buying something meaningful or symbolic to the pet is most important, and it can often be purchased at a more reasonable price, which has come as a great benefit to me"
Reach out for emotional support.
Stress, normal sadness and depression can be intensified when grieving the loss of a pet. Receiving emotional support is important to help manage your feelings and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Consider seeking support from family, friends or even pet loss support groups in your community. Talking with people who have experienced similar loss can make it easier to express intense emotions such as anger, guilt or disbelief.
Find a memorial activity or ritual to celebrate your pet’s life.
Dedicating a memorial activity or ritual can be one of the most powerful ways to help cope with the loss of a pet. Consider activities such as planting flowers, donating to an animal shelter, writing a eulogy or volunteering at an animal rescue organization in memory of your beloved pet. Having something concrete that celebrates your pet’s life and allows you to take part in honoring them can bring comfort during this difficult time.
Consider a tribute in honor of your pet such as a donation to an animal charity or cause related to your cat or dog.
Making a contribution to an animal welfare group or cause that’s close to your heart can be a powerful way to memorialize and honor your pet. Consider researching charities and organizations related to the type of pet you had, local animal shelters and rescues, or other causes that would allow you to make a meaningful donation in memory of your pet. Taking part in charitable activities such as these can not only provide an outlet for grief but also bring more awareness and help more pets in need.
Schedule regular breaks from work or school during difficult times in order to keep up with other activities and obligations that may distract you from the pain of the loss of your pet.
Differentiating a day structure into work and regular activities will also create a sense of normalcy. Allow yourself to take emotion-based breaks whenever necessary. Making sure you’re taking care of your needs, whether that involves taking a nap, going for a walk, or mediation—all greatly helps in the healing process. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends and family during this time if you feel overwhelmed or unable to cope on your own. Taking it one day at a time is key and eventually the pain will lessen with time.