How to Cope with the Loss of a Pet

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By Kallicat
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Cope with the Loss of a Pet

As a pet lover/owner, there will come a time when you will lose a pet. Sometimes the cause is old age, other times it is a medical issue, or perhaps they wandered out in the street. Whatever the reason for the loss of your beloved family member, you will need to cope with their loss. Here are some tips to get you through the rough patches.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Step 1

Rusty

No matter what, allow yourself time to grieve. The loss of a pet is a traumatic event and you will need time to process their death. Your grief may last a few days or for some it may last years. Each person is unique and so is the relationship they had with their pet.
Step 2

Frappachina

Plan a memorial for your furbaby. Share photos and/or memories of your cherished pet to help keep their memory alive. If you have your pet cremated, find a special place in your home to store the ashes/urn. Some people like to put in a plant to honor their pet.
Step 3

Oliver

Write in a journal about your pet. You could also make a memory scrapbook with photos and memories of your pet. This will preserve the memories forever and any time you need to, you can just pick up the book and have wonderful thoughts of your pet.
Step 4

Seek out support or a support group. There are many online support groups available to assist you through the process of grieving for your pet. You may also be able to find an in-person group somewhere locally. There are pet loss hot-lines available if you need to talk with someone. See the resources for a link.