Losing a Pet
Loss of a pet can be devastating and extremely painful.
Our pets are considered to be part of our family. When we say goodbye to a pet, we can experience loss in the same way we do when we lose a human that we care about. This is called grief.
Grief about an animal can also occur when we have to give them away, or say goodbye to them for reasons other than death.
There is not a right or wrong way to experience grief, nor is there a timeline for these feelings to end. The time period someone grieves is called bereavement. There are many free resources available if you or a family member want some information, tools and support while navigating the bereavement period.
The Tilly Project is a website that may benefit both adults and youth. It includes many free articles, book suggestions, podcasts and videos for what to expect and healthy ways to mourn the loss of your pet. It includes information about supporting kids, specifically it addresses suggestions for how to talk to youth of different ages about pet loss.
Each person in a family may have a different response to losing a pet. It is important to recognize these differences and support each individual in a way that works for them and is appropriate for their age.
Everyone can be supported with pet loss by coping in the following ways.
Keep your schedule/routine
Eat well, exercise, limit caffeine and alcohol, get enough sleep
Talk to friends and family about your feelings
Attend a pet loss support group
Younger children
Children may learn about emotions and difficult situations best when adults read them children’s books.
Here are some examples we like.
When You Have to Say Goodbye: Loving and Letting Go of your Pet by Monica Mansfield, D.V.M.
A Jillion Ways To Say Goodbye To Your Pet by Sandra Spring
The Invisible Leash: A Story Celebrating Love After the Loss of a Pet by Patrice Karst
I’ll Always Love You by Hans Wilhelm
The Rainbow Bridge: A Visit to Pet Paradise by Adrian Raeside
Older children
Free Printable Workbooks provide an opportunity to learn and express oneself when someone is ready.
Below are some examples of workbooks that may be useful for those who prefer to draw or write in a journal.
All ages
Creating a project to honor your pet can be helpful for both adults and children healing from loss.
Here are some ways to memorialize and honor your pet.
Make a photo collage/scrapbook or other memorial keepsake
Share photos of your pet with friends or a support group
Create a visible reminder of your pet: make jewelry, plant a tree
Make a donation in your pet’s name
Celebrate a yearly anniversary by lighting a candle or telling stories
Additional Support
Pets are an extremely important part of our lives, and losing a pet can be overwhelming, lonely, and very difficult.
You are never truly alone, and it is always acceptable to seek out help.
In some cases, the stress of pet loss can become unmanageable and unsafe to deal with alone. Help is available.
Emergencies
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, like life is too much, and/or have thoughts of harming yourself:
Dial 988 or Text HOME to 741741 or contact your local emergency services.
Non-emergency support
Cornell Pet Loss Hotline 607-218-7457 - Leave a message for a call back.
Chicago Pet Loss help line 630-325-1600 - Leave a message for a call back.
Facebook group: Connect and share your pet loss story here
Personalized support
Kate Williams, LCSW is an online therapist who specializes in working with adults to support themselves and their families with pet loss.
If you are interested learning more about Kate’s services please contact us today.