subject: Grieving The Death Of A Pet - 3 Ways To Deal With The Sadness [print this page] Most of us have learned through life experiences about grieving the death of a pet. You probably have memories of growing up with a pet dog, cat, bird, hamster, snake, turtle, chameleon, or fish - maybe you even tried to breed some of these creatures. We can lose a pet due to old age, accident, or failing health. If you have ever had and loved a pet, you have felt and been through the grief that comes after the death of your loved companion.
It can be difficult for others to understand your feelings and the devastation you are going through. The grieving process is not a simple one. When one is grieving the death of a pet, it does not last for only a few days. We all handle grief in our own unique and individual way - there is no time frame. We may not understand what we are feeling or know what to do to feel better, and it may seem like there is no end in sight to the pain we are going through.
For many people, losing a pet is also the loss of a faithful friend. By understanding the grief that you feel, you can move forward to remember all the wonderful things to cherish about your pet.
To help deal with the sadness, it may help to ask yourself:
1) How did your pet enter into your life? - Was your pet a stray? Did you get him/her from a pet shop, humane society, breeder, or friend?
2) When you were with your pet, how did he/she make you feel? - Did your pet make you feel loved and needed? Did he/she provide comfort when you were upset?
3) What were some of the fun things you and your pet did together? - Did your dog enjoy playing Frisbee? Did your fish swim to the top of the tank when they saw you getting ready to feed them? Did your cat curl up with you in bed? Did your parrot say "hello" when you came home?
By understanding better how you grieve for your lost pet, and discovering the ways to cope with your loss, you will be closer to the time when the memories bring more happiness than pain.
