Given the intense bond people share with their animal companion, it’s natural to feel a sense of devastation and grief after losing a pet. Although some people may not understand the intense devastation behind this kind of loss, it’s not something to be ashamed of. Using healthy and effective ways to come to terms with their passing can help you say goodbye to your furry best friend.
Spending quality time with your pet in its final days can help with the grieving process. Let your pet know how much you love
him or her, and cherish every moment. Letting your pet know that it was loved its entire life will solidify to both animal and owner that it lived a happy and healthy life.
Surrounding yourself with people who you cherish is also a great way of dealing with the pain behind losing a pet. If your family and friends love animals, they will understand the pain you’re going through. Don’t hide your feelings in a misguided effort to appear calm and strong. Instead, talk about your feelings and let out a burst of emotions, it’s perfectly normal to have weak moments at a time of loss.
Keeping old photos, videos and other forms preserving memories can be an effective way of dealing with the loss of a pet. It’s important to have something concrete to return to; like a visual reminder can help you remember your beloved pet.
Many pet owners make the quick decision and get a new pet relatively soon after the passing of their pet. This is typically does not help with the healing process and can intensify the grief. Every animal is different and comes with unique personality traits and bonds with its owner. No animal is the same and the bond between pet and owner cannot be duplicated. When the time is right however, getting another pet can begin the start to another great friendship.
Nothing can ever take the place of your pet and it can be a difficult process to experience. But with great support from friends and family as well as friendly reminders of your companion can ease the grieving process.