Cry if you must. Grieve. Your dog was not just a dog. Your cat was not just a cat.
It is perfectly natural for you to grieve over the death of a pet.
Do not let anyone tell you it is stupid to do so. Your pet was your baby, your best friend, your companion.
“It is natural to feel devastated by feelings of grief and sadness when a beloved dog, cat, or other pet dies,” stressed Help Guide in the article “In Coping with Losing a Pet.”
But do seek help in this hour of grief.
Here are healthy ways to cope with the pain from Help Guide:
Don’t let anyone tell you how to feel, and don’t think you should feel this way or that way. Just allow yourself the sadness over the loss of a loved one, your pet.
“Your grief is your own, and no one else can tell you when it’s time to ‘move on’ or ‘get over it.’ Let yourself feel whatever you feel without embarrassment or judgment. It’s okay to be angry, to cry or not to cry. It’s also okay to laugh, to find moments of joy, and to let go when you’re ready,” help Guide said.
Reach out to others who have lost pets.
Those who have lost their pets understand what you are going through.
“Check out online message boards, pet loss hotlines, and pet loss support groups…If your own friends and family members are not sympathetic about pet loss, find someone who is,” Help Guide said.
Rituals can help healing.
You can hold a funeral to help you and your family members openly express your feelings.
“Ignore people who think it’s inappropriate to hold a funeral for a pet and do what feels right for you,” Help Guide said.
Create a legacy.
Those who lost their pets were able to move on when they prepared a memorial, planted a tree in memory of their pets, compiled a photo album or scrapbook, or shared the memories in ways they felt good about.
You “can create a legacy to celebrate the life of your animal companion. Remembering the fun and love you shared with your pet can help you to eventually move on, “ Help Guide said.
Look after yourself.
“The stress of losing a pet can quickly deplete your energy and emotional reserves. Looking after your physical and emotional needs will help you get through this difficult time. Spend time face to face with people who care about you, eat a healthy diet, get plenty of sleep, and exercise regularly to release endorphins and help boost your mood,” Help Guide said.
If you have other pets, try to maintain your normal routine.
Your surviving pets can experience the loss like you, maybe distressed by your sorrow.
“Maintaining their daily routines, or even increasing exercise and play times, will not only benefit the surviving pets but can also help to elevate your mood and outlook, too,” said Help Guide.
Seek professional help if you need it.
If your grief is already interfering with your ability to function, please consult your doctor. DC