LOSING A PET
Knowing When It's Time
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most heartbreaking and deeply personal decisions a pet owner can face. Our pets are more than companions, they are family - offering us unconditional love, comfort, and a special kind of joy that leaves a lasting mark on our hearts. It's completely natural to feel overwhelmed or uncertain when considering euthanasia. Please know you are not alone in this. Many find it helpful to use a pet quality of life assessment, like this one from our friends at Lap of Love, which can gently guide you in understanding your pet’s comfort, happiness, and overall wellbeing. Paying attention to changes in appetite, mobility, and interest in daily life can also offer important clues. We’re here to support you with compassion, respect, and care every step of the way.
Coping With The Loss Of a Pet
Most of us share a bond with our pets that can be as strong as a bond with a family member. Therefore, the loss of a pet can also feel like the loss of a family member. It’s not unusual to feel overwhelmed by grief and sadness as the end of your pet's life grows nearer and they pass on. Learning healthy ways to cope with your loss is the first step to healing. We are here to help you find ways to take care of yourself, your family, and your other pets when a beloved pet dies.
The Pet Grieving Process
The grieving process can’t be forced or hurried, and there is no “average” time that it lasts. Some people need a few months, and some people need years before they can move on. Whichever intensity you’re experiencing, be sure to be patient with yourself and allow yourself to heal naturally. Losing your pet is one thing, but the secondary effects that come from the loss of companionship, comfort, and a constant positive presence can only be understood by someone that's been through it. ​
Impact to the Family
Communicating with others who have lost pets is one way to cope. You can use support groups or your own family and friends. Having someone there who understands what you’re going through can be a huge help. Another way to help you and your family cope, is a 'pet funeral'. This is really just about having an open and comfortable space where you can express your feelings about this pet, and this loss.
​
The loss of a pet can make you forget about taking care of yourself. Spending time around people who care about you, eating regularly, adequate sleeping, and exercise can all help boost your mood. If you have multiple pets in your house, keeping up with your normal routines will help everyone cope the easiest.
​
Pets experience pet loss as well, or they may feel stressed by your stress. Regular routines will not only allow you to continue life as usual, but also elevates your mood when you recognize your progress with being able to move on.
​
If you are struggling to heal after the passing of your pet, there are many online and local resources available to you. Whether it be an online support group or individual grief counseling, you do not have to face your grief alone. Find support in any of these communities:
​
Remembrance Options Through
We partner with Crevasse's Pet Funeral Home to offer cremation services that will help you remember your pets with honor and love. Options for memorial items include a variety of urns, wooden boxes, and clay paw prints. For more information on our pet cremation options, please give us a call at any of our locations.
Want to remember your pet in other ways? Create an online memorial for them on our 'Rainbow Bridge' page or learn other ways to memorialize your pet here.