Having lost a beloved dog myself, I can say that the grief can be overwhelming.
Grief is a common and natural response — whether the loss was sudden or expected, through illness or an accident. Making the decision to put a pet to sleep can be heartbreaking and traumatic.
The grief pet owners feel can include both psychological and physical symptoms: feelings of emptiness and sadness, loss of appetite, nightmares and depression.
You may notice that you start to avoid friends with pets or places you associate with your pet. This is perfectly normal and can improve in time.
Burials, rituals, keeping belongings or ashes in the home, photographs and an outpouring of feelings on social media are all common responses.
How to come through grief
- You have lost a pet — allow yourself to grieve. Your pet was valued by you.
- Guilt is common, especially if you had to put your pet to sleep because of illness or injury.
- Talk to your support network or consider counselling. Lean into the support you need to speak freely about your loss and sadness.
- Look after yourself physically and emotionally.
Contact Stella if you would like a calm, confidential place to talk.