Guest spot authored by Stephanie Lynch
When a person dies, it’s normal to feel grief and sorrow, and you should expect your family and friends to be there when you need them. However, with a pet, finding support may be harder since some people don’t understand what it’s like to lose a “pet.” Some people, unfortunately, see a pet as just a small critter running around the home. Most people love their pets like a member of their own family, and finding ways to cope with your loss can bring you closer to the day where you smile instead of shed tears when you think of your pet pal.
#1 Be honest with yourself Honesty is the first step towards dealing with a pet loss. If you`re honest about what you feel, you will be better prepared to deal with this problem down the road. Talk to a family member who may understand your feelings or write a letter to vent your frustration. Don’t deny your feeling, pain or anger.
#2 Talk with your vet Your veterinarian will know this situation all too well. If you feel >lost, that’s okay because most do. Your vet may be able to point you to ttps://www.animalhumanesociety.org/services/pet-loss-support-group“a local support group or even offer resources in house to help you cope.
#3 Keep busy with life Focus on tasks so you can take your mind off your pet`s death. Losing > your pet can be very stressful and can take a burden on your energy levels and emotional reserves. Be sure to eat a healthy diet, get plenty of sleep and exercise to release endorphins to help boost your mood.
#4 Remember the pet Cherish and remember the memories of your pet as much as you can and avoid telling yourself that nothing happened. Again, don´t try to ignore your feelings because these are very real forms of energy that you must overcome as soon as possible. Try to remember your pet in some ways such as creating a small memorial or placing a small picture somewhere in the house. Also, if you have children, allow them to https://www.etsy.com/market/pet_loss_gifts“create a momento as well
#5 Find new meaning in life If this pet was your life and occupied a lot of your time, it’s time to fill that occupied time with new things to do. This can include picking up a hobby, http://www.howmuchisit.org/classes-cost/“taking a class</a>, helping friends with their pet or even getting another pet when the time is right.
#6 Keep in contact with friends When depressed, it’s important to remain positive and stay close with your friends. Try to meet with a friend a few times a week. Regular face-to-face contact can help you stay positive, keep your mind off things and help your depression. Also be sure to keep in contact with those who loved the pet as much as you did. This could be through an email or phone call.
#7 Don’t be afraid to cry. Bottling up your emotions is never healthy for anyone. No matter what anyone says, don’t be afraid to shed a few tears. Crying just confirms your emotions and will make you feel a lot better.
#8 Volunteer at the pet shelter Losing a pet can be tough and just running out to the local breeder right away to adopt a new pet is often out of the question. Emotionally, if you can’t adopt a pet just yet, consider volunteering at the local pet shelter. This will help keep you busy, keep your mind off things and be around the pets you love Coping with a pet loss isn’t easy work. Make sure that you that you take action and not just read the tips you find on the Internet. If you feel you’re spiraling out of control, don’t be afraid to find professional help.
BIO: Stephanie Lynch works for Howmuchisit.org, a cost-helping database > helping consumers find out what unknown things cost in life. You can > follow her on Twitter at @howmuchforit. >