Pet Loss Elderly
If you have already suffered losses in your home from seeing children grow up and move out, or the loss of a spouse or partner, the loss of a pet can be especially hard.
What is the worst and most profound emotion you will face?
Loneliness. You may feel anger or feelings of abandonment towards those you care for and even towards your deceased pet at first. You will miss the energy and vitality of your pet, and their constant presence in your life.
What should you do?
It is important to consciously gather a support group however you can. Gather friends and family around you for a while, or visit them for a short visit if that is a better option for you. It is important that you spend time with other people in the beginning to help with feelings of loneliness which really can make everything harder to bear. It’s important not to isolate yourself and to surround yourself with those that you trust.
There are trained licensed therapists who specialize in helping with pet loss today, and a few sessions with one may make an enormous difference to you in your grief.
You may want to reach out to support organizations or online forums to talk to people who may be going through, or have gone through the same challenges as you. Find a shoulder to lean on. There can be comfort in communicating with others who have been in a similar situation.
Open up your house windows and doors – the sounds and daily activity from your neighborhood can make you feel connected to the people around you.
Your pet may leave behind items like dishes, bed and toys. Put them away when your loss is raw and new, and in time decide whether you wish to dispose of them, donate them or use them for another pet.
Consider memorializing some of these items by creating a display case or a small collection that can be hung on a wall. Take some time deciding what you would like to do to create happy memories and a sense of history and connection.
What if you have lost an older pet?
If you are suffering from the loss of an older pet it can be very difficult not having them in your life anymore. You were used to them being a part of everything you do, with specific activities and routines which may have brought structure and social interaction with others into your life. Make your home feel not so lonely by opening it up to friends, family and neighbors. If you walked with your dog every day, go on walks and greet the same people you see regularly who will share in your loss and make you feel less alone.
If you have specialty food or supplies that your pet required, consider donating them to other pets in need through your local shelter, veterinarian or community-based neighborhood groups or websites. These products are frequently expensive, and can be appreciated by other pet families or owners.
Family is Forever
We know that family is forever. Let us help you keep the memory of your beloved pet alive and preserve those precious moments for all time.
When is it time for a new pet?
Treat yourself kindly and with compassion, and begin to take small steps to moving on when you can. Reflect often on how fortunate you were to have your beloved pet in your life, and cherish the beautiful memories. This could include memorializing your pet with an online pet memorial to visit and share with your loved ones.