“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard”– Winnie the Pooh
For many people their pets are part of their family. When the time comes to say goodbye, it is an extremely difficult time. For some the loss may be sudden, for others it may be a consequence of having to make the difficult decision of having their pet put to sleep due to them being unwell.
Whilst the following quote mentions dogs, the same can be said for all pets. There is often such a void in our lives once they pass away and dealing with pet loss can be incredibly hard.
We have been so honoured to look after so many lovely clients and their beloved pets so far and we recently looked after Lola a beautiful pet of Catherine.
Catherine is the owner of Trusted Minds Therapy, and she shares her journey with navigating her own grief but also offers her support to those who may be experiencing a pet loss themselves. Catherine is a trained counsellor and here are her words of her journey so far after loosing Lola.
Losing a pet is never easy, but when it happens unexpectedly, the grief can feel even more intense. My dog, Lola, passed away this week, and her loss hit me like a wave I wasn’t prepared for. Lola wasn’t just a pet she was a constant companion, a member of our family, and a source of unconditional love and support.
There’s no “right” way to mourn the loss of a pet. Lola will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will forever cherish the moments we had together. While the pain of her loss may never fully disappear, I feel a sense of gratitude for the time we had, and for the love she gave me every single day.
Losing a beloved pet is a deeply emotional experience that many people underestimate until they go through it. When they pass away, the grief can feel just as intense as losing a close friend or family member.
Counselling can play a vital role in helping individuals navigate the overwhelming emotions that come with pet loss. Here’s how:
1. Acknowledging the Grief
Many pet owners feel the need to hide their pain, thinking that grieving over a pet may not be “valid” compared to the loss of a human. However, a counsellor can help you understand that your grief is real and deserving of attention. Talking to a professional creates a safe space to express your emotions without judgment, allowing you to process your feelings.
2. Processing Complex Emotions
The grief after losing a pet can be multifaceted. You might feel sadness, guilt, anger, or even relief if your pet was suffering. A counsellor can help you explore and understand these conflicting emotions, guiding you toward acceptance and emotional healing.
3. Helping with Loneliness
Pets often fill a large void in our lives, providing constant companionship. After their loss, feelings of loneliness and emptiness can be overwhelming. A counsellor can help you cope with these feelings, offering strategies to fill that void in healthy ways, whether through self-care, social support, or new activities.
4. Honouring the Memory
Grieving the loss of a pet also means finding a way to honour and celebrate the special moments you shared. A counsellor can support you in creating meaningful rituals or memorials, helping you preserve your pet’s memory in a way that brings peace rather than sadness.
5. Moving Forward
While the pain of loss may never fully disappear, counselling can help you heal and eventually move forward. You may be able to cherish the good memories of your pet and learn to live without them, knowing that it’s okay to continue loving and remembering them as part of your life’s story.
Ultimately, counselling after the loss of a pet can offer valuable support during a difficult time, helping you to heal emotionally and find peace in your memories. If you’re struggling with grief, please reach out for support.
Here are some other useful links that may also help with pet loss
