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Pets bring companionship, comfort, joy, and unconditional love into our lives. They become treasured members of our families, so losing a beloved pet can be incredibly painful.

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Grief is a very personal experience, and there is no right or wrong way to feel. It is completely natural to experience deep sadness after the loss of a pet. Give yourself the time and space you need to grieve, and remember that the bond you shared with your pet will always be a meaningful part of your life.

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BEFORE YOUR PET PASSES AWAY

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If you know your pet may be nearing the end of their life, there are some things you may wish to consider.​

• Spend as much quality time together as you can, creating quiet and meaningful moments with your pet.

• Take photographs and videos that you can look back on in the future.

• Consider keepsakes such as a paw print, fur clipping, or another special memento.

• Speak with your veterinarian about your pet's comfort, pain management, and quality of life. They can help guide you when difficult decisions need to be made.

• Take some time to consider your options for euthanasia, cremation, burial, and memorialisation in advance. Having arrangements in place can reduce the number of decisions you need to make at an already difficult time.

• If you are uncertain about your pet's quality of life or treatment options, you may also choose to seek a second veterinary opinion.

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AFTER YOUR PET HAS PASSED AWAY

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Everyone experiences grief differently. There is no set timeframe for grieving and no particular way you are expected to feel.

Some things that may help include:

• Allow yourself to grieve and express your emotions without judgement.

• Try not to compare your grief with the way others are coping.

• Talk with family, friends, or others who understand the bond you shared with your pet.

• Seek support from your doctor, counsellor, or another mental health professional if you feel you need additional help.

• Hold a memorial, farewell, or small ceremony to honour your pet in a way that feels meaningful to you.

• Write about your pet, your feelings, and your favourite memories in a journal.

• If you have other pets, remember that they may also experience changes following the loss. Offering them additional comfort, attention, and routine may help.

• Look after yourself by eating well, resting, staying active where possible, and remaining connected with people who support you.

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REMEMBERING YOUR PET

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Creating a lasting tribute can be a comforting way to celebrate the life you shared. You may wish to:

• Create a special memorial space in your home with photographs, a paw print, fur clipping, collar, favourite toy, or your pet's ashes.​

• Plant a tree, flower, or garden in their memory.

• Create a photo album or scrapbook.

• Write down your favourite memories and stories.

• Read pet-loss poems, quotes, or prayers that bring you comfort.

• Create an online memorial celebrating your pet's life.

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There is no "normal amount of time to grieve the loss of a pet. Be gentle with yourself and allow yourself to heal at your own pace. The love and memories you shared with your pet will always remain with you.

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CHILDRED & PET LOSS

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The loss of a pet can also be very difficult for children, particularly when it's their first experience with death and grief.

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When supporting a child, it can help to speak honestly in an age-appropriate way, encourage them to ask questions, and allow them to express their feelings. Creating a drawing, writing a letter, looking through photographs, watching videos, or making a special keepsake can also give children a meaningful way to remember their pet.

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For further information and resources on helping children understand and cope with pet loss, you can visit the link below.

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https://kidshealth.org​

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