Published April 28, 2024

Did your pet pass away recently? Are you struggling with the loss? Maybe you're not sure what to do? Or how to really begin the emotional healing process? While I am not a certified counselor by any means, I have lost my share of pets in my lifetime and have struggled to move forward like many of you. Here are some coping strategies that I hope you will find helpful: 

1. Take time to review some cherished photos. Call to mind happy times. Close your eyes and "in your mind's eye", try to remember times when you were petting your dog and they were content or recall times when you were playing with your dog. Allow yourself to feel your emotions. 'Rest' in your emotions and allow peace to envelope you.

2. Remind yourself that you were the best dog (or pet) parent you could be. And know that your dog/ pet loved you for everything you did for them.

3. Practice gratitude for your pet's life and the happiness they brought you. Every time you miss them, pause and be grateful.

4. To help deal with missing them so badly, carry something of theirs with you for awhile. I wore my dog's leash around my shoulders for many weeks when I was exercising/ walking so I did not feel so lonely.

5. Memorialize them by getting a custom pet painting, creating a pet memory box with their collar (or perhaps a precious lock of their fur) in it or have a memory pillow made from their favorite blankets or clothing.

6. Take your time with their possessions. Do not feel rushed to remove their bed or pick up their toys. Let them be and be around their possessions. They are gentle reminders of them.

7. Every morning as you are able, create a 'new' remembrance for their life. Ring a small bell in their memory, for example. Speak their name. Honor and acknowledge them.

8. Remind yourself that you might be able to love and care for another pet when you are 'ready'. Although they never replace the pet you lost, there are other pets waiting to be loved and that also need a good home. This does not diminish the pet you had but rather demonstrates your capacity to continue to love and care for precious animals.

I hope all or at least some of these strategies will bring you comfort in your time of loss. I wish you peace and comfort.