Navigating Pet Bereavement: Coping with the Loss of a Pet

Coping with the Loss of a Pet is one of the most heart-wrenching experiences a pet owner can go through. Pets become cherished members of our families, providing companionship, unconditional love, and endless joy. When they pass away, the grief can be often comparable to losing a human loved one. If you are struggling with the loss of a furry friend, know that your feelings are valid, and you are not alone.

Understanding the Grief Process

Coping with the loss of a pet is a deeply personal journey that looks different for everyone. However, many pet owners experience some of the emotions similar to those felt during human bereavement. These can include:

• Shock and Denial – The initial disbelief that your pet is really gone.

• Guilt – Wondering if you could have done more to prevent their passing.

• Anger – Feeling frustrated, whether at circumstances, illness, or even the vet.

• Depression – Experiencing deep sadness and emptiness.

• Acceptance – Coming to terms with their loss while cherishing their memory.

  
  

Allow yourself to feel these emotions without judgment. There is no "right" way to grieve, and healing takes time.

My Experience Losing Sam

Last year, I had to say goodbye to my beloved Maltipoo, Sam. He had been with me for 14 years, and throughout most of his life, he was a happy, healthy companion. However, in his final year, things changed. Sam had diabetes, and while we managed to keep it under control, he started behaving differently. He would walk in circles, bump into walls, and have frequent accidents in the house—something he had never done before.

After consulting with the vet, we learned that Sam had dementia. It was heartbreaking to watch his decline, but we continued to care for him, doing everything we could to make him comfortable. Then, suddenly, his legs began giving out, and he struggled to stand. We would have to pick him up off the floor, and it became clear that his condition was worsening.

I called a friend who worked in a vet's office and asked her how she knew when it was time to make the decision to put a pet to sleep. Her words still echo in my mind: "When they have no quality of life."

That was the moment we made one of the hardest decisions of all time. We knew it was time to say goodbye. The pain of that decision is something I still carry, but I also know that we gave Sam a lifetime of love, and in the end, we did what was best for him.

Ways to Cope with the Loss

While nothing can replace the love and companionship of a lost pet, here are some strategies to help you navigate your grief:

1. Create a Memorial

Pet Dish Memorial Succulent Planter

Honoring your pet’s life can bring comfort and help keep their memory alive. A dear friend of mine who recently lost her sweet English Sheepdog, created a planter for succulents inside his food and water dishes (photo above). I found this to be such a beautiful tribute to her sweet boy. Here are some other ideas:

• Planting a tree, or flowers in their memory.

• Framing a favorite photo.

• Creating a scrapbook or digital album.

• Keeping a special keepsake, such as a collar or paw print.

• Pressing the pet's paw into plaster (our vet offered this for free)

  
  

2. Allow Yourself to Mourn

Grieving takes time, and it’s important to let yourself feel the loss. Cry when you need to, talk about your pet, and express your emotions without guilt.

3. Seek Support

Talking to friends or family members who understand your pain can be incredibly healing. If you need additional support, consider:

• Speaking with a therapist who specializes in grief.

• Reading books or articles about pet loss and grief.

  
  

4. Keep a Routine

If you have other pets, maintaining a routine can provide stability for both them and yourself. Even if you don’t have other pets, keeping busy with daily activities can help ease the pain over time.

5. Consider Volunteering or Adopting

While it’s important to allow yourself time to heal, some pet owners find comfort in helping other animals in need. Volunteering at a shelter or fostering can provide purpose and healing. When the time is right, opening your heart to a new pet may bring joy back into your life.

A New Beginning with Luna

After losing Sam, there was an emptiness in our home and hearts that felt impossible to fill. But as time passed, we found ourselves ready to welcome a new furry companion into our lives. That’s when Luna, our energetic and lovable Malshi puppy, entered our world. While no pet can replace another, Luna has brought new joy, laughter, and unconditional love into our world. Her playful spirit and boundless affection remind us every day that love doesn’t end—it just changes and grows in new ways.

If you’ve recently lost a pet, know that you’re not alone. Surround yourself with love, remember the joy they brought you, and take one day at a time. When you’re ready, love has a way of finding you again—just as it did for me with Luna. Visit my Etsy page for Pet Memorial Digital Download gift ideas: