Many people have pets and these people often have close ties with them. The death or loss of a pet can be a traumatic experience and result in grief and grief. The loss is unique in a number of ways. While pets can die naturally, from accidents or trauma, pets can also die from euthanasia, which often means the pet owner has to decide when to put his or her pet to sleep. Pets can also be lost if they run away, with no possibility of closure. Or maybe pets have to be given away for logistical or financial reasons. If you are grieving the loss of a beloved pet, these strategies may help:
* It is important to recognize the depth of feelings of loss. Your pet may have been through the ups and downs in your life and may have even helped you cope with other losses. Give yourself time and space to grieve. Individual, group and family psychotherapy can be helpful in coming to terms with the loss and giving meaning to the pet in your life.
* Stay focused on your daily and weekly schedules of personal and professional responsibilities and make sure to build in fun activities for yourself into the days.
* Identify triggers for your grief and identify ways to deal with them. Triggers can include the pet food aisle at the grocery store or driving in a special spot you've shared with your pet.
* Try to find ways to grieve in a meaningful way. This could be creating a memory book, keeping a journal, making a memorial, or donating money or time to an animal shelter.
* There are also a number of online forums that allow people to receive support as they process their loss.
