Guest post by: Lucille Rosetti, author of TheBereaved.org
Individuals without pets don’t understand the misfortune of losing a four-legged friend. The creatures we call our own are family members. Getting past the pain of a four-legged companion’s death is similar to dealing with other types of grief. Here are some tips on processing this commonly misunderstood calamity.
Honoring Mittens, Fluffy, and Rover
You may not be aware, but many people have formal memorials for pets. According to a recent survey conducted by pet loss experts, funeral homes perform more than 1.9 million animal services every year. This blossoming sector of the bereavement industry has the potential to provide serious emotional closure. Consider putting a personalized headstone in your backyard for visiting when missing your beloved fur baby.
Cremating pets is a popular alternative to burial. Spread your cuddle buddy’s ashes over the water, use them to grow a tree, or incorporate them into jewelry. If money is not a concern, you can even launch dog and cat cremains into space. If you’d rather keep Fido on a shelf, the market is brimming with urns that match every tail-wagging personality.
Improving Environment
Grieving is easiest when your surroundings support the processing of loss. Start by decluttering; letting go of physical objects may help you do the same with your pet. Experts also believe simplifying could reduce stress. Creating a Zen garden is another way of contributing to feelings of serenity. Turn your home into a safe space where you may exist without judgment.
Getting Exercise
Physical activity is beneficial for minds as well as bodies. Working out doesn’t have to be a chore either. Soak up fresh air while cycling or hiking mountain trails. Enjoy a dip in the pool by signing up for aqua aerobics classes. Try boxing if aggression effectively expels your frustration and anger.
Finding time for exercise can be challenging, especially if you’re shouldering demanding work responsibilities. There are strategies for getting the blood pumping when you’re short on time. For instance, instead of riding elevators, opt to take the stairs. Set aside a few minutes toward the end of your lunch break for a brisk stroll. You can even enjoy particular fitness routines right from your desk.
Accessing Support
You are not the first person to experience this form of loss; others understand what you’re going through. Connecting with friends and family members can be comforting. A simple hug often makes a world of difference. Join a pet bereavement group on the internet and trade experiences with strangers. There are also many fantastic books with the potential to carry you through this trying time.
Seeking Counseling
If you’re still overwhelmed with guilt and grief, seek mental health services. There’s no substitute for professional therapy. Counseling is also available online, meaning patients no longer need to see counselors in person. Online therapy happens over computers and phones. Talking with someone this way is both secure and private. It’s also highly convenient and less of a commitment. There’s no travel involved, and it costs less, too. In addition, pursuing online counseling gives you a wider variety of professionals from which to choose. Many therapists offer complimentary consultations, thus giving you a chance to verify that you’re comfortable discussing sensitive topics with this person.
Saying goodbye to a nonhuman friend is a painful experience. Luckily, there are many methods of working through sadness. Figure out which ones will help you deal with this tender tragedy.
Share your thoughts!
What did you think of Lucille’s post on how to get over losing an animal companion? Did any of these aspects resonate with you? What steps do you find most helpful in your grief journey?
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You can learn more about Lucille Rosetti by visiting her blog at TheBereaved.org.
