The only downside to loving a pet is the day they cross the rainbow bridge. Dealing with the grief of losing a pet is different for everyone. Some find the loss emotionally devastating, while others can move past the grief much more quickly.
Either way, here are some tips for dealing with the loss of a beloved pet.
Don’t Minimize Your Grief
“It’s just a pet.” If you’re grieving the loss, he wasn’t “just” a pet; he was an important part of your life and one that is worthy of the grief you feel. Allow yourself to feel what you feel, and don’t let others make you feel like you shouldn’t be grieving.
Keep a Memento
Most vet clinics are happy to provide a paw print of your pet that you can keep as a memorial. Other options include:
- A statue or engraved stone for your pet’s favorite spot in the yard
- An urn to hold your pet’s remains
- A piece of cremation jewelry
Let Go of Guilt
Guilt is a struggle after pet loss, especially if euthanasia was involved. No good pet owner would allow their pet to suffer. Sometimes that means the most loving thing you can do is to let them go. Since it’s easy to attach guilt to the decision to euthanize your pet, don’t make the decision alone. Discuss it with medical care providers and your family so that you can feel comfortable that you made the best decision for your pet.
Don’t Get Another Pet Too Quickly
After a loss, some people rush out and get another pet, but many regret that decision. You can’t replace the pet you lost, but you can honor them by giving another animal the chance to be part of a loving family. Instead of rushing into it, allow yourself some time to grieve first and only move forward with a new pet when you’re sure the time is right.
Talking to Kids About the Loss of a Pet
For many children, the loss of a pet is their first introduction to death. That’s one of the reasons it’s important to be honest. Some parents tell their kids that the pet ran away, went to live on a farm, or is gone on a trip. This leaves the door open for future disappointment as the child waits and hopes for their pet to return.
It’s also possible this could cause them to be angry with you in the future when they realize the truth. Tell them their pet has died, keeping the explanation as simple as is appropriate for your child’s age. For example, “Wally was very sick, and he died. He’s not in pain anymore.” Allow your child to ask any questions they have and answer them honestly and simply.
Make sure your child knows it’s ok to feel sad and to miss their pet and tell them you’re sad, too. In many cases, giving the child a chance to say goodbye is a good idea. Allowing an older child to be present when the pet is euthanized or just having a memorial where you say goodbye as a family can help your child deal with the loss.
Losing a pet is never easy, but focus on the amazing memories you have, and don’t forget that he was lucky to be a pet that was cared for and loved.
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Allivet is a trusted pet pharmacy offering the lowest prices on the same medications you get from the veterinarian’s office. We also sell thousands of other items, including cat food, dog food, toys, treats, and more. Our convenient AutoShip service makes it easy and convenient to get the items you need automatically shipped right to your door.
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