Not everyone understands just how hard the loss of a pet can be. Our furry friends become more than just animal companions, they become family. They are our therapists, our playmates, our nap buddies, our children and our best friends. When they pass, it leaves a hole in our hearts that at first feels impossible to fill, but we promise, no matter how difficult things might be feeling now, it will get better.
It can sometimes be hard to admit the pain that comes with losing a pet. Not everyone grows up with them, so understandably, not everyone understands the significance of losing one. To some, they are “just animals”, but we know better. They are our best friends and our companions in both joy and sadness. They see us at their worst and still wag their tail beside us. They are a part of our daily routines, so their absence is felt massively.
To help you deal with the loss of a pet, here are some ways you can honour their memory, navigate your grief, and hopefully find some comfort…
Remind Yourself It’s Normal to Feel This Way
At this moment in time, you might feel anger, depression, guilt, sadness and even small bursts of happiness. Remember, these random bursts of emotion are completely normal. The loss of a pet can be just as difficult as the loss of a human family member or friend, so it is healthy and normal to experience these emotions. Feel safe to express them without judgement and don’t be afraid to seek support. We all need a helping hand every now and then, it doesn’t mean we’re weak, it simply means we’re human.
Allow Yourself Time to Grieve
It’s all well and good us saying things will get better but know that it’s okay if things get worse first. It’s important to grieve; it’s the only way you’ll ever truly deal with the loss of your pet. It’s okay to cry, to feel sad, to get angry. Take the time to mourn and let yourself feel these emotions. There is no right or wrong way to do it. Some of you may want to talk about your pet and share the memories while others may prefer to keep quiet and grieve alone. Both options are okay during the initial stages of grief.
Talk About Your Furry Friend
After the initial stage of grief, it can be useful to talk about your lost pet. You might not feel like it at first, but sharing stories about your furry companion can be incredibly healing. Talk to the people in your life who understand the bond you had, and how much joy they brought you. If you don’t have anyone to talk to, or you don’t feel comfortable talking to people close to you, you might consider joining a pet loss support group or even a forum online. There, you can connect with others who have also experienced the loss of a pet and share your feelings in a safe and understanding environment.
Create a Memory Box
Another way to cope with the grief that follows the loss of a pet is to create a memory box. We have no doubt your furry companion had a favourite toy or a favourite treat. Why not fill a box with all their favourite things along with some photographs, their collar and other mementos. That way, you always have something to remind you of them. Then, during those moments when you need it, the memory box can be a beautiful reminder of your pet and the life you shared together.
Write Them a Letter
It might seem silly at first, but writing a letter to your pet can be a powerful way of expressing your feelings and releasing some of those unwanted emotions that come with grief. Let them know what their time with you meant, talk about some of your favourite memories and thank them for their companionship. We know they’ll never read it, but it’s a private exercise that can be really therapeutic following the loss of a pet.
Donate to an Animal Charity
Another beautiful way to honour our pet is to donate to an animal charity in our pet’s name. It could be a local shelter or a national organisation. We have no doubt your pet will be wagging their tail from above knowing you’ve done something to help other animals in need, all while ensuring your best friend’s legacy lives on.
Find a New Routine
We understand how much a pet can dictate your daily routine, so after the loss of a pet, that routine can suddenly feel empty. Think of it as a chance for a fresh start and create a new routine that can help you navigate this difficult time. You might wish to take up a new hobby, spend more time with friends or family or start that DIY project you’ve been avoiding all this time. It won’t be easy, but after a while, we promise your new routine will start to feel just as normal as your old one.
Wearing Pawprint and Noseprint Jewellery
Last but certainly not least, one of the most profound ways you can help yourself through the loss of a pet is to keep their memory close to your heart – literally. Through special keepsakes like our pawprint and noseprint jewellery, you can create a personalised necklace, bracelet or charm engraved with the real imprint of your pet’s nose or paw.
All we need is a nice clear photograph of your pet’s nose or paw, and our talented team of craftsmen will meticulously engrave the exact lines and waves onto your chosen design. The intricate details will forever be a comforting reminder of your best friend’s presence in your life. You can view our complete collection of pet memorial jewellery here if you’re interested.
We hope that the biggest thing you take from this is this: the journey of healing after the loss of a pet is a unique and personal process. In the same way your relationship with your pet was completely unique, so will your journey through grief. Be gentle with yourself, give yourself time to grieve and find a way to honour your pet that brings you comfort and peace.
