If you are lucky, you get to spend a lot of time with your pet and form an unbreakable and priceless bond. When that pet dies, it can result in an emotionally devastating experience that could take a while to heal completely. That is why if you or someone you know is suffering from the effects of the loss of a pet, you have to approach the situation with empathy and understanding.
Grief is tough and can take an emotional toll. While there isn’t just one right way to grieve, there are some signs to look out for, which can be referred to as the different grief stages. Denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and anger are all the various stages of grief and can all impact your life. Understanding what to say when someone loses a pet that is experiencing grief stages could make all the difference in helping them move on healthily.
Be Sure to Listen
One of the essential tools for anyone going through a mental health struggle, in general, is listening without interjecting with unsolicited advice. You should first approach the individual in question and inquire about their health by simply “checking in” by asking them how they are doing.
If they would like to talk about how they feel after losing a pet, providing them with that outlet to vent could potentially help them understand the process of the grief they are going through. You should say things like “I am here if you need me” and be encouraging even if they lash out.
Help Them With Activities
Another thing to do for someone who is grieving could help them with their daily activities. Grief can take a toll which can make it hard to do your laundry, for example. Going over to a grieving friend’s house that just lost a pet and helping them with their laundry could make it easier for them.
Offer to Help With Any Financial Burden
Sometimes grief can take a financial toll as well. When a pet dies, their pet parent could be stuck with a hefty vet bill. Even after a pet dies, those bills still need to be paid off. Funeral expenses (if you decide to have a funeral for your pet) are costly. Helping a grieving loved one pay for any mounting fees could take the weight off their shoulders and make things a little easier for them in the long run in more ways than one.
Get A Gift That Reminds Them Of Their Pet
A more thoughtful gesture would be to get something that reminds your loved one of their beloved pet. You could have someone paint the dog’s portrait or get them a plaque made. Another thing that people are doing these days is getting pictures printed and plastering them on a mug.
One of the most important reminders in life is remembering that we are loved. Having a bad day and coming home to see a thoughtful portrait of love once experienced could be a reminder to keep going. And there are countless gestures to consider when doing something kind for a loved one that has lost a pet.
Remove Physical Reminders
It can be hard to come home and see a dog bowl that once belonged to your deceased pet. Being that person to pick up all the physical reminders could save your loved one from a lot of heartbreak and mean the world to them. It is recommended that you wait until your loved one is ready to put those reminders away. Putting them away too early could be a little tricky. Be sure to ask and make sure you understand that grief does take some time.
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