How to support a person who has lost a pet: tips

The death of a pet can be just as devastating to a person as any other type of loss. Many pet owners experience deep grief that is difficult to overcome.

“When a pet dies, its owners lose companionship, affection, and ‘unconditional love that we don’t find in humans.’ – says psychologist Sherry Cormier told the New York Times.

Many people experience loss in isolation, because they often face misunderstanding from other people. Therefore, psychologists advise supporting people who are going through something similar.

“Be genuine when you express your support. Say something like, “I know your pet has been an important part of your life and family. I can see how much she meant to you and how much you miss her.” Sherry Cormier advises.

The grief of losing a pet is often compounded by feelings of guilt if the owner had to euthanize the animal to minimize its suffering.

Dr. Cormier had a similar experience. She had to perform this procedure for two of her golden retrievers: one of them lived a long and happy life, and the other had to be put down unexpectedly due to an aggressive brain tumor.

“If you want to express sympathy, Resist the urge to say, “I know how you feel.”. Everyone’s grief is unique.” – explains the psychologist.

Rituals are an important part of the grieving process, but when an animal dies, they are often forgotten for some reason.

“Ask, maybe your friend would like to hold a memorial service or would like to make a memorial box with photos and a few of your pet’s favorite toys.” says Michelle Crossley, assistant professor at Rhode Island College and vice president of the Pet Association.

Psychologists advise not to forget about the physical component of the loss of an animal-friend.

“It’s not uncommon for people who lose a loved one to report really intense physical anguish, often likening it to how they imagine the pain of losing a limb.” says Judith Harbor, a veterinary social worker at Schwartzman Animal Medical Center in New York.

In such situations, she advises find an object that the owner can hold or hug– for example, a blanket that belonged to a pet.

People are sometimes embarrassed to talk about how much they miss their loved one. Because of this, they can feel lonely and isolated, says Dr. Cormier.

According to her, simple encouraging them to share stories, photos or videos of their pets can help them feel that they are not alone in their suffering.

“Listen more than you speak” she says.

Experts call the idea that people experience the loss associated with the loss of pets faster than other types of grief.

She calls support friends and relatives who are experiencing such a moment, even after a few weeks or months after loss

“Don’t ask if your friend intends to get another pet. Mourning takes time”, – notes Judith Harbor. Almost everyone she consulted after the loss of a pet was asked this question by their relatives.