We only have them for what seems like a blink in a lifetime, but in the end, at time of sorrow, remember – your furry love had the pleasure of having you their entire life. And for that, be thankful, be glad, and remember that your pet was the luckiest pet on earth to have found you to care for them the way you only you know how until the very last day.

~Valentina Vayntraub

The Fortunes and Gifts of Our Pets

Even at the end of their road they are blessed.

Though we have them for just a little while our pet companions have us their whole lives. From the day they came home to the day they left they were by our side for every moment of happiness, sorrow, and everything in between. Our pets have the richest of lives simply because they were a part of us and in turn, we are a part of them.

Imagine coming into this world to someone who will love you, care for you, and hurt for you until your last breath, the way we do for our animals. Now, imagine having the peace of mind by knowing that this love will last your entire life and when you are ready to move from this physical world onto the next you still have that person that has cared for you all of your life to see your through the last steps of your journey on this earth.

This is the life and death of a pet. In a way, they are blessed the way we, humans, never will be. The loss of your pet will teach you things you otherwise would have never known. This is a gift. Treasure it.

Dealing with the Loss of Your Pet

It’s not easy but there is a way to deal with the terrible loss of your pet.

Though they have fur and we are naked, we are family. Though we speak human and they speak the language of the beast, we get each other on the deepest of levels. Though they walk on their fours and we on our twos, we are best friends. And though we don’t think about the end it inevitably comes, often too soon. Dealing with the loss of your pet and best friend is an emotional and depressing roller coaster. But knowing what to expect can make the process just a bit easier and, at times, even healthy.

Breathe. Think of the good times. Take steps to heal and move on. pet loss is a part of life. the loss of your pet is no different.

Acknowledge your true feelings on your loss of your pet. At a time of loss of your pet it’s natural to feel anger, guilt, and most of all sadness. Don’t bottle up your feelings as this will only make the process longer and more painful.

Understand and accept your feelings. Understand that your love for your pet was a strong one. The kind of love that is unlikely to be forgotten. Come to the realization that you will probably never fully get over the loss of your pet. This is only because of love that you will always remember your pet in the best and happiest moments.

Accept that your pet was solely responsible for your ability in attaining love at such incredible depths. Accepting will eventually allow you the remeberance of your beloved pet with a smile and a warmth in your heart. And though your pet is not physically here your heart will melt with fond memories of their time here with you.

Permission to grieve. Come to an understanding that going through the motions is the only way you’ll heal the trauma of the loss of your pet and move forward. So, once again, don’t bottle your feelings up. This makes you only weaker. Let the hurt come so you can understand why it is hurting so bad – love. The low points of our lives are only defined by the happy moments. It is because of the utter happiness that your pet has brought you that you feel such overwhelming grief. To say that you are not grieving is to say that you pet has never brought you such happiness. We all know that’s not true. So grieve the way you laughed. Cry the way you smiled. Soon you’ll remember more good times and smile at the thought of your time together.

Experience and express. Fear, anger, and especially tears are all a part of the gireving expression and the road to healing. Don’t be afraid of it. Embrace it.

Talk and share. Surround yourself with people who understand pet loss. Grief requires the process of opening up, sharing, and having a strong support system. Talk to family and friends about coping with the loss of your pet and get an open communication system going to help you work through this process.

Patience is a virtue. Grieving is a personal process. It may take a few months to come to terms with the loss of your pet. Be patient with yourself. Take the time to learn the lessons provided. Take care to realize the strength within yourself that your pet has ultimately shown you.

Seek professional support systems. Professional support groups can be a huge help especially if you’re feeling extremely depressed or angry. The ASPCA Pet Loss Support & Bereavement Group is a support system that can help with the following:

• Assistance with the decision to euthanize
• Comfort and support at the time of euthanasia
• Help with the grieving process
• Advice on dealing with children, the elderly, or disabled persons who are experiencing the death of a pet companion
• Advice on how to help surviving pets cope with the loss
• Assistance in establishing a relationship with a new pet

Call the ASPCA’s Loss of Your Pet Support & Bereavement Group at 877 GRIEF-10

In Conclusion…

A few closing words we’d like to share before you go.

Remember to enjoy every moment with your beloved animal companions. Spoil them, love them, learn from them, and never ever take them for granted.

For the pet parents experiencing loss at this time we want you to know that you so very sorry for the loss of your pet and we are in hopes that over time the joyful memories will soon take the place of tears.

For more information please visit ASPCA’s Pet Loss page where you’ll find you’ll find the following (or you can simply click on the individual links below):

• Pet Loss FAQ
• End of Life Care FAQ
• Helping Children Cope with Pet Loss
• Ask ASPCA Expert Dr. LaFarge
• Honor Your Loved One with a Memorial Gift
• When Your Pet Dies at Home (for NYC residents)

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