5 Ways to Cope with Pet Loss July 14, 2014

Dealing with the loss of a pet is never easy. Your pet is a valuable member of the family and an irreplaceable part of your life. Here are a few ways to help you honor the life of your pet and put you at ease with the changes their passing can bring:

Don’t feel that you have to justify your grief.

Unfortunately, you will find that some people may not fully understand the gravity of your loss. They might try to make you feel like you should move on immediately, and probably just don’t understand why their passing so deeply affects you.

Don’t argue with them or try to justify why you are so upset. Just remember that everyone deals with loss differently. What works for you will not work for everyone.

Seek out others who have also lost a pet.

When dealing with the loss of a pet, you may find that those who have gone through the same experience are the most supportive. By seeking out others who have lost a pet, you will be able to share your story with someone who understands.

At our Decatur location, Paws, Whiskers & Wags hosts a monthly pet loss support session. Led by licensed social worker Christy R. Simpson, our monthly grief support groups provide bereaved pet owners with a place to share their story, or simply listen and take comfort in the company of others. Our Pet Loss Support Group sessions are held on the first Tuesday of every month from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. For more information, call us at (404) 609-1072.

Rituals or memorial ceremonies can help provide a sense of closure.

It is common to honor our fallen human friends with a funeral. Similarly, a small ceremony or memorial service can help provide a focal point for your emotions when coping with the loss of a pet.

These events provide an opportunity to remember the amazing life of your pet, and take some of the focus off of their passing. Paws, Whiskers & Wags holds a yearly candlelight vigil and pet celebration for just that purpose. During this ceremony, bereaved pet owners can come together and celebrate the lives of their beloved pets. 

Do something to honor your pet’s life.

There is no better way to immortalize the joy that your pet brought you than through spreading that joy to others. You can set up memorial fund, plant a tree, donate something in their name, or sponsor someone else’s pet adoption. Any act that serves as a reminder of the impact your pet left in your life can help ease the pain of his or her passing.

Maintain routine, especially with surviving pets.

While dealing with the loss of a pet can be stressful and traumatic, it is important to try to maintain your normal routine. Sticking to a regular schedule can help you to focus on other things in your life.

This is especially true when you have other pets. It is important to remember that they are also dealing with the loss of a close friend. Give them some extra attention during this time, which will benefit both of you.

Paws, Whiskers & Wags, Your Pet Crematory

With locations in Covington and Decatur, Georgia, Paws, Whiskers & Wags offers support and guidance for those who are coping with the loss of a pet. In addition to offering both private and community cremation options, we host a monthly pet loss support group to help make the journey of saying goodbye just a little easier.

Our compassionate team is available by 24 hours a day phone at (404) 609-1072 or (866) 497-PAWS at any time.