Grief After The Loss of A Pet

Pets are always there for us. They greet us at the door when we come home, they keep us company, and they comfort us when we need cheering up. Your pets aren’t just animals, they are an essential part of your family. They are there for us when no one else is, and they love us unconditionally. The bond between a pet and its family is a strong one. It can be hard-hitting when your pet passes away. The grief felt after the loss of a pet can be incredibly strong; because of how much they mean to you. 

Grieving After Your Pet has Passed

Grief is a normal reaction to any loss, and your pet’s passing should be no different. Your furry companion is a member of the family, and the loss you feel can be just as much as losing a dear friend or close relative. You’ve shared good times, cuddles on the couch, and even your bed with your pet. Mourning the loss of our pet is natural.

Grief Affects Everyone Differently

Grief can be manifested physically or emotionally. Physical signs of grief include crying, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, and difficulty concentrating. Emotionally, you can experience anger, sadness, loneliness, confusion, guilt, or even numbness. It will take time for you to accept this loss.

Grief at Different Ages

Children, adults, seniors, and other pets can all experience grief from the loss of a pet. While your young children may not be able to fully grasp the concept of pet loss; they will still feel the grief. 

Grief and Your Other Pets

Your other pets specifically may experience changes in eating habits or other unusual behaviors. It is important to give them extra attention and to comfort them as you would any other family member.

Guilt and The Loss of a Pet

Guilt is a very strong, and often complex emotion in pet loss. Many pet owners will feel guilty for the passing of their beloved companion. They will often blame themselves for things like infrequent vet trips, not enough exercise, or even the diet of the pet. Medical care for pets can often be expensive. You should not blame yourself for the loss of your pet. 

Euthanasia and Guilt

If your pet has a terminal illness, euthanasia may be an option that is available to you. It is a choice that no pet owner wants to make. But it is something that might be considered, to ease the suffering of your pet. If the quality of life for your pet is becoming poor, you may have to make that decision. The important thing to remember is that you did everything you could for your pet. Many pet owners feel immense guilt after having to make this choice, which is understandable. But it is important to understand that this decision is something used to ease their suffering. It is by no means an easy decision, and feeling grief and guilt over the decision is completely normal.

Burial and Cremation

There are a number of options to consider for your pet. There are a number of pet cemeteries, cremation options, and options for local burials that are available to you. As funeral directors, we can help you choose what options are right for your pet. Additionally, our memorial and gift shop has a variety of keepsakes to help honor the memory of your beloved pet. 

For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your pet or loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.