If you are a pet owner or you have lost a pet in the past your answer is probably yes.
Often we are hesitant to show our grief openly about a pet loss because we think we might be judged by society.
We might hear:
How can one seriously be so sad about the death of a pet?
Living with a pet means that we are living with a special companion. We can share anything with them. They don’t walk away from us when life gets tough. We can tell them our deepest feelings and know that they won’t repeat it to anyone else. They become our confidants. They never judge or criticize us. They stand with us no matter what happens in our life. Pets might even soften difficult family relationships.
So why would we think that we will feel different than losing a human family member or friend?
Why would we diminish what we feel, or hide it, or even be ashamed?
It might have to do with the fact that often society doesn’t value the connection to an animal as equal as to a person.
The most common advice grievers might get are:
- You can get a new dog.
- It was only a cat and she was old.
You know better.
Grief is grief no matter what the cause and it hurts.
If you lost a pet recently or a long time ago, my heart goes out to you.
Surround yourself with people you can share your feelings with. Talk about it so that you can acknowledge what you have lost and start healing your broken heart.
Love to you,
Jacqueline
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