Once you deal with the arrangements, you are left with the emotional distress, and coping with your loss. Banfield, The Pet Hospital has some recommendations for the grieving process.
- Denial. No one wants to accept the loss, so we deny it. This is a normal stage, you can help your loved ones get through it with comforting words, or maybe they just need to be left alone.
- Anger. Once the reality sinks in, we feel angry. Some people may blame themselves, or feel guilty that they did not spend enough time. It's important to make considerations for people who may not be themselves during these times.
- Sadness. Some people may not understand how much the loss of a pet can affect us. If they've never had a pet, they may make rude or insensitive remarks. So remember, your pain is real and if you feel it, it's ok. Try and focus on good memories, or other good things in your life that are still with you.
- Acceptance. In the final stage of grieving, we accept the passing of our friend. Accepting the natural passing from life to death allows us to continue with our lives.
There are some suggested books that might help you, help your child with their loss.
- The Tenth Good Thing About Barney, by Judith Viorst. (Turtelback, 1975.)
- A Special Place for Charlie, by Debby Morehead. (Partners in Publishing, 1996.)
- Dog Heaven, by Cynthia Rylant. (The Blue Sky Press, 1995)
Does anyone have any helpful hints to help with the loss of a pet?
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