Pets as Allies in Grief

During periods of immense grief, it can be important to surround yourself with loved ones. While this often means friends and family, our pets can also provide great comfort during our hardest times. Pets can be helpful companions during the grieving process. They offer comfort, companionship, and support while you cope with loss. Whether you are a cat person or a dog person, your pet can be there for you while you are in mourning.

Pets and Combatting Loneliness

One of the most common reasons people get pets is because they are a companion. Having others around can be helpful for combatting feelings of loneliness, whether they are an animal or people. Having a pet sit with you while you are watching tv or laying in bed can do a lot for combatting loneliness.

Pets and Your Health

Studies have proven the effectiveness of pets on your health. Having pets around can actually benefit both your physical and mental health, overall. Petting an animal can increase serotonin and dopamine levels. This serves to combat stress, depressive feelings, and anxiety. Playing with pets can also lower blood pressure.

Morning Motivations

When dealing with grief, it can be difficult to get out of bed in the morning. Often, pets can motivate you to get up and do things. Whether they need to be walked or fed, pets can push you to get up on days when your grief hits hardest. 

Pets and Expressing Emotions

While not everyone is comfortable with seeking professional help for their grief, it can still be good to talk things out. Just talking out your emotions to your dog or cat can help. Even if they don’t understand, simply putting your emotions into words can be cathartic.
The author of this post is not a professional therapist or counselor. For assistance in finding a grief counselor that is right for you, there are several resources out there. For our Grief Resource Center, written by Dr. Bill Webster, click here. 
For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.