Some people spend more time with their dog than they do other people. Dog owners have a special bond with their dogs and that relationship often becomes truly unique to the dog owner. Dogs provide companionship, acceptance and unconditional love; they do not judge and keep up our spirits. Dogs teach us how to care for others and become part of who we are. Combined with the sense of responsibility that dog ownership provides they fulfill our basic needs for touch and affection. With all of this in mind it can be a particularly difficult for dog owners to deal with the loss of a canine companion.
When dealing with the loss of a pet owners often go through similar stages in the grieving process as if they had lost a family member. The first emotion is typically sadness. People feel a sense of intense loss followed by a powerful sadness. It is important to let yourself feel this sadness, but if it becomes too overwhelming try distracting yourself with other activities. Spending time with friends and family can be a good diversion in this stage. Do not go it alone in these instances. Reach out to others even if all they do is come over and sit with you. You will likely feel a sense of acute loneliness with the loss of your dog and companionship will be helpful.
The next stage is typically guilt. People often feel as if they could have done something differently to prolong or save their dog’s life. This is often not the case. Try reminding yourself that you gave him the best live that you could and that he was happy and well cared for. In the grieving process anger often follows. People sometimes want to blame others for a situation and can develop resentments at this time. People may blame their Vet for not doing more or blame others for not understanding their grief. Try to let go of this anger, as it will not bring your beloved pet back. Try remembering happier times with your pet to achieve peace with his loss.
As the process continues anxiety typically creeps in. People often feel a sense of uneasiness or panic thinking that they will never get through a grieving situation. Try talking to others who have been through the same thing, friends and family or pet loss hotlines can help. Another surprise twist along the road of grief comes large waves of grief that set in when we least expect it. They usually happen when people are just starting to put the grief behind them and can be just as powerful as the first day. They can occur when you see something that reminds you of your pet or encounter another dog that looks like your beloved. These feelings too will pass with time.
As you begin to feel better try planning for a memorial for your pet. Consider spreading his ashes or writing a poem in his honor. Try making a scrapbook of memories of your dog or holding a small ceremony with friends and family. Your network will understand your love of your pet and will be supportive to your need for closure. If you are not ready to get a new dog consider volunteering at a local shelter or spending time with a friend’s dog. Animals have healing powers; in fact just stroking a dog will lower your anxiety and heart rate. Try to take things at your own pace and give yourself time to grieve. Everyone is different so do not beat yourself up if you can’t simply get over your loss or snap back like nothing happened. Be patient and kind to yourself and remember that your dog would want you to be happy!
Article submitted by Pet Super Store carrying a full line of dog beds, dog bowls, and pet doors.
