Coping with Sorrow When we Lose a Pet
Pet loss brings a host of painful questions:
- Am I “crazy” to be hurting so much?
- What should I tell my children?
- How do I know when to euthanize a pet?
- How can I help my family cope?
- Will my other pets grieve for their companion?
Grief felt for the loss of a pet is just as valid, and can be just as painful, as the grief we experience when a person close to us dies.
Regardless of the species, our animal friends possess characteristics that endear them to us. Our pets never judge us, even when we are wrong. They always love us, even if we don’t love ourselves. They can listen patiently to our problems and speak volumes to us without a single word.
Pets become close friends and a significant part of our lives. It is both normal and healthy to mourn their loss.
Counseling can help you understand what you are feeling following the loss of a pet.
If you are anticipating or coping with the loss of a pet in your life and want to deal with that grief, we can provide you with the information, comfort, and support you need.
As you travel along your journey of grief we can share your burden, and give you comfort to help you make sense of what you are feeling. We can help you prepare for what to expect, and help you find meaning, growth, and healing along the way.
When you suffer the loss of a pet, the best thing you can do is seek out others who can empathize with your pain.
Janeen Saffle facilitates a monthly pet bereavement meet-up group. For dates visit our Pet Loss Bereavement Group page. All are welcome no matter how long it has been since your loss.
