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Dealing with the Loss of a Pet can be overwhelming

The bonds we form with our pets during their lifetimes are very special. No matter how long they are with us, pets have the ability to impact our lives in so many different ways. It is this lasting bond that makes losing a pet so difficult and emotional. The grieving process is natural and can last for a few days or up to years for some individuals. Understanding how to cope with such loss is necessary, so you can remember your pet with happiness rather than sadness.

The Grieving Process

Although these stages can occur in different orders for each individual, many people experience feelings of denial, anger, guilt, depression and acceptance.

Denial is usually the first step in the process of grieving. For many, it is often difficult to believe the death of a pet, and refusal to do so is normal. Denial can set in when you first learn of your pet's illness, but it is often stronger after a sudden death.

Following denial, feelings of anger and/or guilt may arise. These feelings can be directed towards anyone involved with your pet, including friends, family or a veterinarian. Many also feel that there was something that could have been done at an earlier stage to prevent the death.

When these feelings subside, it is natural to feel sadness and depression. Some may experience a feeling of withdrawal, while others may find difficulty in doing their day-to-day activities. Depression can vary in length for each individual, but at some point, a feeling of acceptance will settle, allowing you to remember your pet in happiness.

Though these feelings of denial, anger, guilt, depression and acceptance may differ between individuals, the general grieving process occurs in some way between everyone. Understanding this process cannot only help you cope, it can help you help others who may be dealing with such loss.

Others May Not Understand

It is often difficult for other friends and family to understand the deep feelings of loss you may feel after the death of a pet. When in conversation with someone who may be unaware of your feelings, it can be helpful to explain your thoughts and remember happy times aloud. If depression continues to worsen, ask your veterinarian if they could recommend a professional that better understands the grieving process.

Getting a New Pet

The decision to get a new pet is both important and personal. Some might feel that a new pet will not help in the recovery process, while others might feel that it will. Individuals may also vary in their opinions about how soon to get a new pet. Whatever the case may be, your decision to get a new pet should not undermine your feelings toward your first. Although each animal is unique, a new pet will show an immense compassion and love for you.

Though it is extremely difficult to lose a pet that has had such an impact on your life, knowing how to cope with such loss is helpful both to you and those around you. Consult your veterinarian for other tips if depression continues to mount.

Eight tips to help you and your pets safely enjoy the holidays!

 Holidays can be extremely fun for humans, but may pose hidden risks for pets. These seven tips will help keep your pets safe this holiday season.

Don’t be a turkey on “Turkey Day” ~ Holiday treats, such as rich, fatty scraps, bones from pork and poultry, alcoholic beverages, chocolate and other sweets and candies can be harmful or toxic to pets. These foods have been linked to pancreatitis in pets. Signs and symptoms of an inflamed pancreas include vomiting and abdominal pain.  Severe pancreatitis requires emergency medical care and treatment.

O (No) Christmas Tree! ~ Below it. In it. On top of it. Around it. You name it and the Christmas tree poses the possibility of harm to your pets. Pine tree water can be poisonous, so it’s best to use an enclosed tree stand. If that’s not possible, be sure to cover open tree stand bases. The tree should be secured to a wall with strong wire or twine because a toppling tree can cause serious injuries to dogs and cats.

Decorations can be dangerous as well. ~ Tinsel entices canines and felines alike. Glass ornaments look like shiny fetch balls. Ornaments, hooks, twinkling lights and electrical wiring all pose significant danger to pets. When no one’s around to supervise, unplug lights and any electrical decorations a pet has access to. Be sure to cover or tack down electrical cords.

Remember, common holiday pet poisons also include plants. ~ Holiday plants that are poisonous to pets include mistletoe berries, holly, hibiscus, Christmas roses and the poinsettia. Keep these out of your pet’s reach.

Sugar free doesn’t guarantee a happy ending. ~ Xylitol, a sugar substitute, causes a dog’s blood sugar to drop quickly. This poisoning can be treated, but causes liver failure if not treated properly.

Macadamia nuts aren’t all they’re cracked up to be. ~ Dogs experience severe weakness in their back legs, appearing paralyzed, after ingesting macadamia nuts. Dogs usually recover from this condition within three days.

Pets and bread dough don’t mix well. ~ When bread dough is ingested it continues to rise and may cause an intestinal blockage.

Consider your pet’s long-term health when treating and feeding during the holidays. ~ While the tendency is to spoil with a lot of food and edible treats, this can sometimes lead to unnecessary weight gain. Give your pet a special toy or spend some extra time playing and petting instead.

Following these valuable tips will help keep pets out of danger, while still enjoying the festivities that accompany the most wonderful time of the year!