Dealing with the Loss of Your Pet

Anyone who has experienced the death of a pet know how heartbreaking that can be.  But for some, the loss of a dog or cat can be so emotionally wrenching it can affect their physical and mental health which is totally natural, they are/were a part of our families!

We had Scoobey, for 18 years and 4 months.  He was given to us by our sister-in-law and all he ever wanted in life, was to give LOVE...he always had a tail wag (even though it was a stump), he was running and jumping like a 2 year old pup, up until 3 months when he was diagnosed with severe case of hip dysplasia .  Then on September 3rd after meds after meds and natural holistic ways, his time had come as we heard cries even as he slept it was time.

As many do look to family members, friends, or just the internet for comfort and how to deal with the loss, I came across on the one sentence we just may need to hear, "...you feel guilty because you feel like you played GOD in determining life or death, but the TRUTH is you were already playing a HUGE ROLE cause you were taking them to the VET and putting them on meds, prolonging their lives."

What made us feel good is we choose to put Scoobey down on a day that he was doing okay, so he still had his dignity, he wasn't defecating or urinating.

I feel our pets are better served helping you in this new form, with loving memory and brought to your life for reason in this chapter in your life.  Few will ever love you as your pet does.  So when you lose them yes, it can be hard to move on.  According to the Humane Society of the United States you will need

• Time
• Loved Ones

Step 1- Don't be embarrassed that you are so upset.  Your pet was a BIG part of your life.  Don't let anybody let you feel guilty or silly for grieving.

Step 2- Have a memorial that celebrates your pets' life.  Whether it's gathering loved ones to reminisce or planting something in your yard that will serve as a tribute.  Making an annual donation to a pet charity or local shelter on the anniversary of your pets death, both honors your pet helps other animals.

Step 3- As you are grieving give away, throw away, or put away, your pets bowl, toys, brushes, bedding and any other items they used daily.  Keeping a few keep sakes is okay, you don't want to flood yourself with daily reminders.

Step 4- Resist the temptation to get another pet right away.  You don't want to bring another animal into your home when your feeling despondent.  When your ready you'll know, but a good rule of thumb is to wait at least 6 months.

Step 5- Be patient!  Know that it is going to take time before you feel good again.  According to Vetpet, Did you know that 6 months after the death of a pet, 35% of pet owners are still grieving and 22% are still struggling with the loss a year later.

The Doctors TV show had a great segment below:

The one best place to bury a pet is in the heart of the family.

Talk to your local Veterinarian for guidance and remember Animal Rescue, Human Society of El Paso, Animal Services El Paso, Pet Guardian Angel and Great Dane Rescue of El Paso.   If you are in crisis, please reach out for help- call 911, go to your nearest hospital, or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:  800-273-TALK (8255).  Help is available.  Losing a pet can be devastating - for many us, our pets are a HUGE part of our families.  My deepest condolences to all of you who have experienced this loss...you are not alone.