Grief Support: How to Cope with Your Pet’s Death
Losing a pet can be as difficult as losing a family member or friend. Pets are integral members of the family, with an invaluable place in our lives. When your pet passes, processing your grief can be an extraordinary challenge. Here are three ways to help you heal.
#1: Lean on family members and friends
No one knows what you are going through better than family and friends who personally knew your pet, and sharing stories, pictures, and videos with loved ones is a wonderful way to remember your pet. You can also create pet memorials with your family and friends. Consider planting a tree or flower in honour of your pet, or volunteering together at an animal shelter to help other pets in need.
#2: Join an online pet loss support group
Facebook groups can be exceptionally beneficial for pet owners who feel that they are alone in their grief. With the multitude of pet loss groups and countless members, someone will have experienced a similar loss, and you can each provide a shoulder to share your burden.
Social media pet loss groups can also provide anonymity. Remember, the pet owners in online groups are going through the same heartbreak, and they will provide a listening ear, not judgment.
#3: Seek out professional grief counselling
Professional counsellors can guide you through your grief and offer support from the comfort of your own home through telemedicine. Weekly meetings can help you explore the depth of your emotions, make an individualized plan for you to cope with your loss, and discuss moving forward.
When your pet passes, unlimited support is available that can help you manage and process your grief. Lean on our team during this incredibly heartbreaking time, and contact us with any questions, thoughts, or concerns.