People experience immense grief over the loss of a pet and share the same grief stages as when they lose any close friend or family member. Grieving pets is a deep and personal experience that takes time. If you’re grieving a pet, memorializing their life can help you cope with the loss.
Read on and learn what you can do to memorialize a pet and how to move forward without them.
Grieving Pets Takes Time
Whether you’re dealing with elderly pet care or reeling from a recent loss of a pet, this is an emotional time. There’s a gaping hole in your life right now, and you’re going through a lot of emotions. As with any loss, time is required.
The grieving process is different for everyone, but most people reach the height of their grief after about six months. Don’t rush it, though. Take time to remember your friend and work through each emotion you experience.
Say a Special Farewell
Consider whether a memorial service is appropriate for your pet. Some people find a service helps them along the path of grieving after the loss of a pet.
Some people keep these services very quiet and simple – a time of remembrance and marking the moment. Other people prefer to hold a ceremony where they spread the ashes of their beloved companion and say a last goodbye.
How you say your farewell is up to you, but it can be helpful to find closure and solace with a unique, final moment.
Create a Place of Remembering
If you have a bed of flowers or a garden at your home, you can dedicate a space to your pet. Add a marker or engraved stone with your pet’s name on it. Plant flowers or a tree at your home to remind you every time you look at their beauty.
You can add a small statue in the likeness of your pet or a water feature or fountain to make it a peaceful place to rest and reflect on your time together.
Contribute to Worthy Causes
Many pet owners who want to know how to grieve a pet look for ways to get involved in causes related to pet health. Most organizations like animal shelters, humane societies, and other pet-related nonprofits accept donations of time or money. Contributing to these causes can help you process your grief and make life better for other animals.
Saying Goodbye Is Never Easy
How do you grieve a pet? It’s just like processing any other emotional loss. It takes time and patience to accept what has happened and to plan your next steps.
Many people find grieving pets is easier when they memorialize the life they lived. Whether you prepare a memorial service, designate a special location, or contribute to charity, it’s essential to find ways to say your goodbyes and preserve fond memories.
To learn more about how we can help you through this challenging chapter in your life, contact us today.