I wanted to share my ten tips for dealing with the loss of a pet. Last week, my cat of 16 years passed and it was extremely hard to deal with. I was amazed and thankful that others told me they have been through the same thing and knew how I felt. I knew then, that this was a common problem.
Grieving the Loss of Your Pet
- It’s understandable that you will grieve and feel extremely sad. Give into the sorrow. It is cleansing.
- Share your feelings with others who understand.
- Perform a ritual for your beloved pet. Hold a dignified burial, at a pet cemetery or in your backyard, or have your pet cremated. Allow family members, especially children, to take part in the ceremony.
- Create something to remember your animal companion. Some suggestions are scrapbooks, a pet memorial stone
, or a shadow box that includes photos and small items such as toys.
Coping with the Loss of Your Pet
- Don’t let others tell you that feeling sad and grieving is wrong. Your feelings are legitimate.
- Wait until you feel ready to get another animal companion. Each pet is unique. Another one won’t replace the one you lost.
- Take care of yourself. This highly emotional time can be taxing, so eat well and get extra rest.
- Try to spend time with others if you feel lonely or afraid, two common emotions.
- Don’t hide your heartache because you think you have to be strong for your family. Being vulnerable allows them to grieve.
- Make a donation to the facility that cared for your pet or to a nonprofit that focuses on pets such as the ASPCA. Doing good for others helps you feel good.
What are some ways that you have dealt with the loss of your pet?
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About 
Twitter: tannawings
says:
I am so sorry for you and your families loss Connie- losing a pet can be extremely hard..
One of the poems I always got back to is The Rainbow Bridge. https://rainbowsbridge.com/poem.htm
I have always hoped it is a real place, because many of my beloved pets are there….
*hugs* to you.
Twitter: SavvyMomNYC
says:
So sorry about the loss of your pet. Great way to share what has helped you so that others can read in a time of need.
Twitter: 2Wired2Tired
says:
These are good tips. I love the donation idea. I’m so sorry to hear about your cat. We had to put down our dog not too long ago and it was really tough. It surprised me what a difficult time I had with it. Hope your heart heals quickly. Hugs.
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These are wonderful tips. I watched my sister go through this and you’re right on with your list.
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Twitter: debthompson
says:
I’m so sorry for you loss. It’s awful losing a pet.
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Twitter: notimeMom
says:
Great lists. It is hard because if you lose a human relative everyone gives condolences and you are encouraged to grieve. With a pet, many people don’t seem to understand or be compassionate about it.
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Twitter: CarrieWChildren
says:
I am so sorry for your loss. I love the idea of a pet memorial stone. My sister has one and it gives her great peace.
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Twitter: corisbigmouth
says:
Losing a pet is so hard, I’m so sorry to hear about your family’s loss. Thanks for sharing those tips.
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Twitter: Mybaybah
says:
It was so hard when we lost our family pet. These tips are helpful. Sorry for your loss.
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