The loss of a beloved pet is often a deeply personal experience. Pets are not just animals; they are family members who offer unconditional love, companionship, and joy. In the wake of such a loss, it is common to feel confusion and uncertainty. The routine of daily life can feel disjointed as we grapple with the absence of a cherished companion. The familiar sounds, the little quirks, and the everyday interactions that once brought joy can suddenly transform into painful reminders of what is no longer there.
Unfortunately, unlike the support we might find when a person passes, for many, the loss of a pet could be met with a brief expression of consolation and followed by little else. We ourselves might minimise the impact of the loss and be tempted to move on. Instead, it is essential to acknowledge that our grief is valid and the feelings of sadness, anger, guilt, confusion or numbness that might accompany our loss, are real.
To process some of these emotions consider:
Connecting with the thoughts and emotions
This doesn’t need to be something that keeps you stuck in sadness or grief. It also doesn’t need to be something you do on your own. Instead, creating a photo album or some art, planting a tree, finding a place for your pet’s favourite toy, and so on, will allow you to experience a range of feelings. Allowing yourself the chance to remember, feel and share the memories could help you stay with those feelings long enough to connect with them. When we are no longer dismissing or distracting ourselves from our emotions, we can begin to process them.
Using the grief to move forward
As you reflect on the special bond you shared with your pet, it’s worth considering all the wonderful ways their love enriched your life. It might have been the simple routine of walking your dog every day that helped you exercise or meet people. Or the playful moments that brought out your inner child, reminding you of the joy in simple things.
Remember those comforting snuggles? The act of stroking your pet not only felt good but also released feel-good hormones like serotonin and oxytocin, enhancing your sense of well-being.
Although revisiting these memories could trigger feelings of loss, it is also an opportunity to appreciate the positivity your pet offered. Consider this reflection as a cue to move forward. Prioritise your walk or explore new activities. Invite a little playfulness into your routine and connect with people or pets that help you feel valued and appreciated.
Looking back helps us recognise what we value, allowing us to prioritise what we need to move forward.
Healing After Pet Loss is a deeply personal journey filled with valid emotions like grief, sadness, and confusion.
Honoring memories through creative expression can help process emotions and find comfort.
If you continue to feel overwhelmed, seek support
It is important to recognise that the grief associated with losing a pet can sometimes be overwhelming. If you find yourself struggling to navigate these feelings, do not hesitate to seek professional support. Counsellors and therapists are trained to help individuals process grief and can provide valuable coping strategies. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Losing a pet is a profound emotional experience that is not easy to overcome. It requires time, effort, and a commitment to honour their memory. As we continue to cherish the memory of our pets, may we also allow ourselves the grace to grieve and the courage to honour them in ways that resonate with our hearts. Remember, grief is a journey that is uniquely yours—embrace it, and know that help is available.
Photo Credits:
First image: Aleksei Morozov
Second image: oatawa
Tamsyn Rippon
About the author
Tamsyn Rippon is a relational therapist in Hong Kong who works with individuals, parents, couples and families to better support their capacity to connect and manage challenges both within and with each other. She also collaborates with schools and mental health professionals, because she believes that it is only when we work together and prioritise wellbeing as a community, that our efforts are sustained.
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