Having a pet is one of the best things in life. It’s a great gift to have a best friend that’s always there for you, no matter what. It can be a complex relationship, but it’s also a special one.
That’s why losing our pets is a very difficult experience that no one ever wants to undergo. But with all things temporary, we have to.
So, here are 5 strategies that can help us cope with the lose of our pets.
- Talk to people who understand you
Don’t hesitate to open your pain up to your friends and family. Share memorable memories between you and your pets, or even encourage them to say something memorable they’ve had with your pet, too.
You can also find a team who also shares the same sentiments with you. Find a group who can comfort you and also who needs your comforting. It’s important to go through this type of loss with other people who truly understands what you feel.
- Don’t be afraid to grieve
Our pets are like family to most of us. They are there for us regardless of the situation. And if other people may not understand your grief, this isn’t an excuse for you not to grieve.
Remember that love is still love regardless if it’s for a person or for your pet. Cry if you want and have to because it’s not wrong.
Don’t let other people judge your feelings. Your pet loved you, too, and that’s real. So, don’t hesitate to grieve the loss of that love.
- Reflect and focus on other positive things
Yes, this can be difficult, but it is possible. It is difficult to think of other stuff especially if your pet has become a part of everything in your life.
However, you have to think that these things haven’t changed. It’s still great to jog, even if you do this with your pet in the past. You can still write, even if it’s become a habit that your cat sleeps on your lap while you do it.
So, remember to focus on these things and the happy memories you have with your pet together.
- Be honest with yourself and don’t make any bad decisions
Be honest that you’re in pain. That you’re wounded and that you feel alone or hurt. Don’t hide these facts.
The more you deny it, the more possible it is for you to make bad decisions. So, to avoid making an irrevocable decision like throwing your pet’s toys away.
So, be honest with what you feel. Make sure to let it pass before making big decisions.
- Take care of yourself
Lastly, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Yes, you can cry, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have to eat while doing it.
Eat, exercise, be with your friends if you need to be with them. And be with them if they need you, too. Remember, doing things that make you feel good can also help replace your grief with positive emotions you can attribute to your pet and their memories.
