Grieving the Loss of a Pet

There are difficult decisions anyone faces when considering the loss of a pet. There are people who can help you get through grieving the loss of your pet.

Some may consider you crazy for being overly sentimental toward the loss of your pet; do not let them make you feel crazy or overly sentimental to grieve! Your pet was your companion that gave you unconditional love and accepted you for you. It is no surprise to feel grief and devastation over the loss of your pet.

Many pet owners who have lost their companion. Other people who have not experienced the owning a pet bond may not understand your pain. Others may try to dictate your feelings, but do not let them. How you feel is what matters.

When grieving the loss of a pet one may feel guilt. You are not responsible for the accident or illness that caused your pet to pass away.

One may feel that it is difficult to realize that your pet is gone or if you get a new pet, you are not being loyal to the pet that passed away. Remember, it is important to resolve your grief.

Anger is another feeling that could surface and be directed at the veterinarian who could not save your pets life, but keep in mind, the veterinarian did everything they could to save your pet.

If depression sets in and causes you to be unable to cope with your feelings, this could cause you to be less active and unmotivated. There are support sites for people who have lost their pets, and it is nice to talk to a good listener who is a pet lover about how you feel.

Also, be honest about how you feel. Feel your pain, anger, and/or guilt so that the healing process can begin. Cry, scream, talk it out, pound the wall and do what helps you feel and heal from the loss of your loved one. Remember the good times you had with your pet. Write a poem, story, prepare a collage, talk to family and friends who love pets about losing your pet or write a letter to your pet.

A veterinarian or humane association can recommend a pet loss counselor or support group. Your church or a hospital can refer you to a grief counselor. There are pet loss support pages on the internet. All you need to do is type in a search engine grieving the loss of a pet or coping with sorrow on the loss of your pet. The way you feel about loosing your companion deserves support.