The Eukanuba Adult
Dog Guide.

Just because he's no longer a puppy does not mean his
owner cannot learn a few new tricks.

Coping With Your Pet's Death

Most of us have lost a dear relative or pet, and know the indescribably pain associated with such a loss. In fact, such transitions are so painful for so many of us, we remember it for years and years to come. This is especially true if we’ve made the decision to put the pet to sleep: Many of us are conflicted because we’ve had a hand in the death, even if the pet was terminally ill and we knew it was in our dog’s best interest to say goodbye.

Grief Over a Dog Is Real

Some people feel that a dog is, well, just a dog. For others of us, however, they’re family. That’s why we take the loss to heart. It is important, then, to both acknowledge our feelings and grieve. The mourning period is different for each person, of course, but reaching out to family and friends will help us process what we’re going through and aid us in making peace with it. According to psychologists, there are five phases of loss:

  • Denial: I can’t believe my pet is sick and/or died
  • Anger: I feel betrayed that my dog is leaving (left) me; I am lashing out at family members who don’t seem to empathize
  • Bargaining: If I spend a whole lot of money on veterinary medicine, my dog won’t die. (Or, if I throw myself into my work, I won’t feel this grief.)
  • Depression: I am so sad, why should I bother doing anything besides lying on the couch?
  • Acknowledgement: My dog is dying/has died. I accept this
Finding Support

If your family members or friends don’t seem to be providing you the comfort you need—of if they are, but you need added support—don’t hesitate to look for other resources. Try:

Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement: www.aplb.org

www.petloss.com

www.petloss.net

Remembering Her

There are lots of ways you can honor the memory of your four’footed friend and doing so will aid in the healing process. Consider:

  • Journaling about your pet or creating a photo album
  • Planting a tree or purchasing a birdbath to add to your yard as a memorial
  • Making a donation to a pet'related charity
  • Donating your time to the Humane Society or to a breed rescue group
Moving On

Only you will know when you’re ready to bring home and love another new pet. But when you do decide to adopt again, remember that no two pets are alike. Even if you adopt a puppy of the same breed, he will have a different personality than your previous dog. Remind yourself that this is okay and learn to love the creature your have in your home.

Losing a pet is a life change — let no one talk to you out of that concept. And though it may be difficult, it is important to flesh our your feelings. This will bring closure and help you move on. Certainly, your best friend would have wanted that.

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