The Loss Of A Beloved Pet - Overcoming The Pain

Losing a pet can be devastating. It can have different affects on all members of your household. Death is a natural thing, and can be coped with naturally. Not accepting your feelings or not surrounding yourself with loved ones can make the grieving process even more unbearable. If you are faced with a dying or deceased pet, then try to practice ways to handle your grief.

Handling your own grief:

The first thing you should not think is “He was only a pet. Why am I upset?” Pet owners often resort to this question as a way to deal with their feelings. You must realize that it is okay to grieve for a pet. He was part of the family, and you cared for him just as you care for others. So, allow yourself to grieve. If you feel like crying, then cry. If you get angry, then punch a pillow. In order to get through the grieving process, you must let yourself experience and rid your body of the uncomfortable feelings. Surrounding yourself with people who do not have pets or dislike pets can be unhealthy. If nobody around you understands your loss, then find an online blog. Group blogs can get you in touch with people sharing the same experience, thus acting as a therapeutic outlet. n
Handling your child’s grief:

It is hard enough to deal with your own grief, but it is important that you also help your child through the process. If your child has any questions, then try your best to answer them. This may not be the best time to educate your child on life and death, but it may be necessary. Encourage your child to openly grieve. Don’t be afraid to cry in front of or cry with your child. Hiding your grief will only make your child want to hide his.

Ask your child if he is ready for another pet. Your child will be honest; if he is not ready for a new animal, then he will let you know. If he says that he is not ready, then respect that. Bringing home a new pet may add to his grief. On the other hand, it may be easier for him to cope if he has a new friend to play with. The important thing is to keep communication channels open between you and your child. n
Handling grief together:

Burying your pet together is a good way to signify the “end” of his life. A burial can also provide a chance for you to share your feelings together. Take your time in getting rid of your pet’s old things. This process can even be taken in steps. For instance, when you feel like you can get rid of your animal’s favorite bed, move it into another room. Throw it away when you are sure that it’s time. Rushing into the process too quickly can prolong the pain.

Find ways to remember the pet. Gather some photographs and help your child make a collage. Use pictures of the whole family and put them in a place where everyone can see. If may be hard to look at the pictures at first, but it will get easier; and, you’ll be glad you put them up.

You don’t have to rush into getting a new pet, especially a pet of the same breed. Often, people feel that if they replace the pet immediately with an identical-looking animal, then it’s like the pet never left in the first place. This is unhealthy for you and the pet. For instance, you may be more likely to get angry with the pet or ignore the pet if he doesn’t act like the pet you lost. Or, your child may get upset if the new pet isn’t interested in the same games as the old pet. Realize that the deceased pet will never be replaced. Instead, you may eventually get a new pet and have new experiences with the animal. You should relay this idea to your child, so he will know that things will be different. However, while you are explaining the new differences, don’t be pessimistic or negative. Be positive! Your new pet will be a great addition to the family!