Monument East Veterinary Hospital understands that the loss of a pet is a deeply painful and emotional experience. The death of a beloved companion animal may leave you feeling a variety of emotions, such as sadness, loneliness, anger or guilt. While some pet owners are fortunate to have friends and family who understand these emotions, others may not have the emotional support they need.
COPING WITH THE LOSS OF YOUR PET
After a loss, you may experience feelings of grief such as denial, anger, depression or guilt The effects are often felt emotionally, physically, and spiritually. This is all part of the normal grief process.
Well-meaning friends and family sometimes do not understand the loss that a pet owner feels after losing a pet. Sometimes, they can inadvertently minimize feelings of loss, leaving you to feel even more alone.
Hiding your feelings of grief does not help them go away. Instead, talking about these feelings with other pet owners who have experienced the loss of their beloved pets can be therapeutic.
Remembering the good times and special memories of your pet is an important part of the grieving process.
You and your companion animal have shared a precious bond. Your grief is genuine and you deserve to feel supported and cared about.
During this most vulnerable of times, you need to treat yourself with the same loving kindness that you bestowed upon your pet.
SITUATIONS WHERE THE SUPPORT OF A GROUP MAY BE BENEFICIAL:
Death of a pet
Euthanasia
Run-a-way or lost pet
Family members living with an elderly or chronically ill pet
Loss of a pet through divorce
Explaining pet loss to a child