WHY THE DEATH OF A PET CAN BE EVEN MORE PAINFUL THAN THE DEATH OF A RELATIVE

If you have ever lost someone close to you, you may be familiar with the deep hurt that can come after such a tragedy. While it may seem incomparable to some people, this same feeling can come from losing a beloved pet. In fact, in many ways it can be even more painful.


For many years society has conditioned us to hide or ignore such emotions when a furry friend passes away. However, just as it is important to allow yourself time to heal from the passing of a relative, the same process should be observed after a pet’s passing.

Why Is The Pain So Great?

If you are an animal lover, there is probably no question in your mind as to why the death of a pet can be so devastating. They are just as much a part of the family as anyone else! However, it can be hard to understand exactly why someone can be so collected at a family funeral, and then completely fall apart after losing a pet. The reasons are actually quite straightforward.


It’s Easy To Miss The Similarities

While most people would agree that pets are part of the family, most don’t realize just how true this really is. Pets have a special way of becoming part of your life and routine. The daily walks, the wet-nosed greetings at the door, the purrs and cuddles, the rough-tongued alarm clock, and so much more.


Pets give people a sense of purpose, a reason for being. Having all of that disappear from one moment to the next can be extremely shocking and painful.


The Connection Is Undervalued


It’s difficult to take time to mourn the loss of a loved one when no one around you understands your pain. Too often the people in our lives give the impression that “it was just a dog.” This type of reaction can make you feel ashamed of your emotions and cause you to bury them and ignore them, which only makes the pain worse.

There is a truly unique connection between a person and their pet that would be much more valued to the outer world were it better understood.


No Outside Help


Perhaps the main reason losing a pet can be more painful than losing a relative is due to the type of outside help received for both occasions. When a relative passes away, people rush in to be of assistance. There are funerals, ceremonies, eulogies, complete support from family and friends, and sometimes even time off of work or bereavement pay.


But when a pet passes away, people expect you to snap right back into your routine. While there may be a bit of sympathy from friends and family, there is much less cultural support or closure. You may have lost your most faithful companion, but your pain still goes mostly unacknowledged.

How To Cope With The Loss Of A Pet


While time is sometimes the best way to cope with such a tragic loss, there are some things that can help you feel more at peace after having lost a dear friend.

  • Consider a ceremony. You may find great comfort in inviting close family and friends to support you and commemorate your cherished pet.
  • Talk through it. Find a close friend, family member, support group, or hotline and talk it out. Take as long as you need.
  • Allow yourself to cry. Keeping your pain bottled up will only cause it to grow. Give yourself time to mourn, grieve, and cry.
  • Tie up loose ends. If you still have doubts or questions about your pet’s death, speak with your veterinarian to clear up any confusion. Don’t torment yourself with worries or questions.
  • Memorialize your pet. Find a way significant to you to honor your pet. Donating to a charity, planting a memorial garden, installing a plaque. Do what feels right for you and your cherished friend.

Conclusion

There is no need to feel ashamed of painful emotions following the death of a beloved pet. Give yourself the time and means you need to recover, and I promise you that things will get better.


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