10 Things to Do After You Lose Your Dog
As soon as you bring your dog home, it becomes part of the family. All the shared moments, including the annoying ones - like chewing on your favorite pair of shoes - make your beloved pet more than just a dog. Our pets are full fledged members of our families. So, losing a pet is not easy for most pet owners. After being with your pet for so long, dealing with the death of a pet is difficult. Here are 10 things to do after you lose your dog or other beloved pet.
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10 Tips on Dealing with Pet Death
Given that dogs are among the most loving and affectionate animals, their death can take a toll on their owners. When it comes to dealing with the loss of a dog, it's certainly no easier than the loss of a close relative. If you're just going through such a situation, here are 10 things you can do to cope with the loss of your favorite pet:
1. Hold a ceremony
Rituals help a lot with grieving the loss of a loved one and the loss of a pet is no different. Holding a ceremony allows you to celebrate the time you had with your beloved pet dog. It also creates an opportunity for other people who loved the dog to be part of his final journey. Besides, organizing the whole ritual will give you a sense of control over what is happening, and a certain peace of mind that you have accorded your dog utmost respect. It can keep your mind busy in the toughest days, right after the death of your pet.
2. Write down your feelings
Writing can be very therapeutic when dealing with death. Most times, it helps people to express the emotions that are too hard to verbalize. You can even turn your writing into a letter to your dog in heaven. This will allow you to invite better thoughts in your mind and help you to move forward in the grieving process.
3. Allow yourself to be sad
Hiding your sadness won't do you any good. Feel sad, and cry if you must. Know that the deepest pain won't last forever.
4. Reach out to others who have lost pets
You never have to do any of it alone. Other people have lost dogs before too, and they can help you cope. They'll understand and won't give you a hard time by saying, "it's just a dog." Pet people get it.
5. Get a new dog
The absence of a dog can leave you feeling lonely. Getting a new dog may not replace the old one. However, it's one way to to deal with the loneliness of the loss of a pet. As you consider the top 5 smartest dogs in the world which one should I buy for family, look for a dog that needs as much love as you do. It helps to get a rescue dog. This way, both of you can find love, companionship, and comfort together.
However, do take your time. Don't rush into getting a new pet, lest it feels like a replacement of your old one. If you aren't ready for a new dog, give it time dealing with the loss of a pet is like any other grieving process, it takes time.
6. Take your time to grieve
Like with any other loss, grieving the death of a pet is part of the process. You can't overlook the absence of a longtime companion dog. Instead of putting yourself through the pressure of forgetting it happened, take time to grieve. Don't expect all the ache to go away in just a few days. Give yourself time to go through the rough patch of losing your pet.
7. Recreate a memory
It helps to invite good thoughts your way. Recreating a memory you shared with your pet can help bring some laughter back into your life. It's also a nice way to get over the pain of not having your dog with you anymore. Go to the bark park and visit with other dogs. Saying hello to your pet's old friends may bring a tear to your eye, but it can also make you happy. Dog parks are fun for everyone!
8. Create a legacy
Your pet has impacted more than one life. Create a legacy for his life. Gather up pictures of your pet to form a photo album or even create a special scrapbook dedicated to your pet. This will help you preserve the memories of your dog and give you something to reminisce through with family members and friends.
9. Talk to a professional
There is no shame in seeking help. Asking a professional to help you cope with the loss of your pet can be the best and quickest way to your emotional healing.
10. Volunteer at an animal shelter
If getting another dog isn't an option for you, volunteering at an animal shelter is a good way to continue expressing your love for dogs.
Dealing with the loss of a pet is a journey that all pet owners must take. The more you face it upfront, the easier it becomes. For more posts about Pets follow our Pet Board, Amanda's Animal Party, on Pinterest.
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