Coping with the loss of a pet

Experiencing the loss of an animal can be a difficult time, whether it’s through death, parting or forced separation.

Life may suddenly feel empty when the companionship and love a pet brings is gone. Losing a much-loved friend can feel like one of the hardest things to go through.

Coping with the pain of grief can often feel overwhelming, and you may experience many difficult and confusing emotions – from shock and disbelief to guilt and even anger. This in turn may affect your physical health, causing problems eating, sleeping or even carrying out everyday tasks. You may even feel nauseous or experience aches and pains.

These feelings may be very unwelcome, but they are normal and are a testimony to the special bond between people and their pets. It's important to give yourself as much time as you need to grieve. You've lost someone very special – missing them is natural. Unfortunately, not everyone understands this grief. It can sometimes feel like a very lonely experience.

All we can say is: we understand. Although it’s a hard time, we hope this advice will help you find ways to come to terms with the passing of your companion.

This time can be very upsetting so make sure you take time to talk things over with supportive family and friends. At Jurassic vets the door is always open for a chat, even a phone call. We will do our best to set time aside to help you come to terms with this loss.

There are many services available to help you through the loss of a beloved pet. Including, The Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Service. (All details are at the bottom of this page)

Losing a pet can be very difficult for a child. Generally this is the first experience of death they have. It can be hard for them to understand what happened to their best friend. Careful phrasing can help them understand where their friend has gone and why.

We can help you find the best way to explain to them. Let us know if we can assist you in any way at this difficult time. There are leaflets available for download on the Blue cross website. See below.

Commemorating your pets life can help to ease the pain of their loss. This can be by holding a funeral, scattering ashes with family or at their favourite place. Even something as simple as just taking some time to remember them can help.

After giving yourself enough time to grieve, you may want to celebrate their life with you. There are many options of how you could remember your special friend.

If you think the time is coming for you to say Good bye to your pet. You can visit our 'Time to say Good bye' section of the website. Or book in with Jess to have a chat about end of life and how Jurassic vets can help you.

Jess has also completed bereavement courses and would be happy to help you through the tough time of loosing your pet.