The passing of a beloved pet is heart breaking and the grief experienced can be profound. It is important to feel your love for your pet by being with your emotions, as painful as this may be. Emotions may include guilt, fear, anger, resentment, intense sadness as well as love. Please know you are NOT alone. Many others share this pain of loss. And there is support.
Please do not bury your emotions of grief in an attempt to “just move on”
Talking to a non-judgmental friend or family member can be invaluable and in doing so honoring your feelings, cherishing the importance of your pet in your life and in so helping through grief.
The intensity of your grief may come and go over time, in waves.
In order to ‘cope’ with Grief we try to find ways to deeply honor our loved ones. In the resources section there are links with ideas. Ideas may include rituals, poems, writing in a diary, poems and art.
In the case of euthanasia, this decision has come from LOVE and KINDNESS. By asking for veterinary guidance and support in making the ‘best’ decision, this may assist you in having a calmer passage of grief.
Please remember to be kind to yourself, forgiving yourself if necessary, giving yourself both compassionate space and time. Know your pet was incredibly fortunate to have a loving owner as yourself.
Please know there is counselling available for those who need help with ‘coping’ in grief.
You can always call your health professional or Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14 – Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention.
