When a beloved pet dies, some poeple simply accept the pet loss,
as a regular part of life. People that have strong feelings for their
pets are deeply affected by their grief. In taking responsibility
for owning a pet, we accept the burden of every aspect for that
pets life.As a pet grows from a baby to adult, that pet's responsibility
and affection becomes a way of life to us. This mutual bonding
becomes an exchange of need and fulfillment between owner and
pet. It's ironic that we become dependent on our pets as well.
We rely on their needing us. When a pet eventually dies, as we all
must, we are never prepared emotionally, from our pet loss. We
first get an extreme case of separation anxiety.Our routine and
patterns are disrupted abruptly by the loss of our pets.
Understanding the phases of grief and mourning that other people
have gone through, can help us through our loss
and bereavement. Often the way we react depends upon the
circumstances of how our love ones pass and how attached we were
to them.
Shock and Disbelief
This usually is the first stage. Weather the pets death was sudden or
expected. It doesn't seem real. We have trouble accepting the truth
and are not equipped to handle the reality of the pet loss. We all
experience this to some degree.
Anger
When the numbness wears off, we are often overwhelmed by anger.
This emotion must be released and let go. Withheld anger can become
a potent force in self destructiveness. It is common to feel anger when
something we love is taken away from us.
Depression and Grief We feel overwhelmed and very sad at the loss of our love one. All we
seem to care about is the loss of our pet,and our own misery. Appetite
loss, and difficulty to sleep are signs of these emotions. Depression is
the most normal of the stages to our pets death. We need some time
And privacy to recover through our depression and grief.
Give Yourself Time
The length of time to recover varies with each individual. Some need
more time and support than others. We have to give time for release
of grief without diminishing the memory of our pet. We never lose
a sense of bereavement for a pet. But we do learn to be less and less
overwhelmed by their death.
Moving On
No matter what method you choose, a Pet Memorial, or Garden Memorial
etc... You should offer a simple eulogy this will help with closure to the event.
It's a chance to be involved with the final experience with your pet. And
to realize your loss and express feeling about it. It will give you a chance
to say, " You are gone, but not forgotten"
Your relationship with your pet is very special. Keep them in your heart
and they will never be forgotten.
" In loving Memory of Bootsie"
Pet Loss
