Dealing with the Death of Your Pet

Pets are part of our family and are loved as if they are our own children. This is why the loss of a pet along with their unconditional love and companionship can be so devastating. Grieving the loss of your pet is a sorrowful but necessary process.

Here are a few tips as your begin and move through the grieving process.

PetFirst Tip
Grieving and finding ways to cope will help you move you toward the day when memories bring smiles rather than tears.

  1. Many people will go through denial, guilt and anger about their lost pet. Admit to yourself that you are grieving and give yourself the right to convey it.
  2. Let out what you are feeling. Talk to a friend or write in a journal to get all your feelings out in the open. Bottling them up will only make you feel worse!
  3. If you still find you need help, look up a local pet loss support group either through your veterinarian or a humane society. You are not alone as you grieve.
  4. Consider holding a small memorial service for your pet to help create closure.
  5. If you have children that are dealing with the same problems, make sure they go through these same steps and know that it’s okay to mourn.
  6. Give yourself, and your other pets, enough time before adopting a new pet. Jumping into something new too quickly can be damaging.