Stages of Grief After Losing a Pet

In 2018, when I lost my beloved cat, Reina, alias Lovebug, I was a total wreck. I wanted to go to a grief loss support group, and I couldn’t find one. I thought if I went to a grief support group for people losing their loved ones, they might have wondered, “why would I be there for losing my pet? It’s just an animal.” They might of thought that I was being ridiculous since it’s not a human being.  I strongly believe that our furry babies are our family members, companions, and best friends. Hence, I decided to do a loss support group for our furry babies. We’re not “crazy nor stupid,” but merely, have a strong compassion for animals.  We spend a lot of money on them with high-quality food, their spa days, toys, wardrobe,  vet bills,  dog walkers, sitters, etc.

I’ve always had a compassion for animals and been fortunate to have travelled extensively, admiring animals in their natural habitat.

After losing our furry baby or pet, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed with sadness and emptiness. Home isn’t the same without getting the warm greetings and kisses upon opening our front door. Looking at our furry baby’s favorite spot on our bed, couch, etc., brings on the pain and loss. The parks, the walls, car rides, toys all over the floor, and the list goes on remind us of our “shadows “now gone.

With the right support, coping with pet loss in California at Psyche Fitness, Inc. is possible. In this blog, we’ll discuss the common stages of grief after losing a pet.

What are the signs of grieving the loss of a pet?

The grief process of a pet death can take many forms. Remember that the pain of losing our pet can be overwhelming, and the grieving process can take time. Here are some common signs of pet grief that people should know:

• Feeling emptiness, sadness, or loneliness

• Difficulty believing the pet's death has occurred

• Anger or irritability

• Guilt

• Lack of interest in being with others and doing things you once enjoyed

• Physical symptoms include: difficulty sleeping or loss of appetite

• Avoiding places that may remind you of your beloved pet

• Difficulty concentrating

• Isolation and withdrawal

What are the 5 stages of grief after losing a pet?

For many pet lovers, the stages of grieving the loss of our pet are the same as the loss of a human loved one. Just like after losing a human loved one, the 5 stages of pet grief — denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance — can offer a framework for understanding emotions experienced after losing a pet. We all grieve differently and can enter the different stages at different times and not in the exact order. One may be at a stage longer than the other stages. 

• Denial/shock: Denial or shock is the first stage of grief after losing a pet. It feels like what is happening is not real. You may be in shock, which is why you may not be able to feel sad or cry. You may experience moments where you reach out to touch them, then suddenly remember they are no longer around.

• Bargaining: The bargaining stage includes an attempt to change reality by making deals or offering something in return, such as promising to give up a bad habit if God or a “higher power” will restore your beloved pet. Even though you know very well that it’s their time to go, you may still plead to God or a “higher power” for help or keep wishing that you could do something to save them.

• Anger: During the anger stage of grief over pet loss, it’s common to blame someone, whether that is others or yourself. Guilt is a common feeling during this stage, as you may wonder whether you have made the right decision or if there was anything you could have done to save your beloved pet. Be open about how you are feeling, and those around you will understand your feelings of anger.

• Depression: Depression occurs once you accept the reality. Loss of motivation, sadness, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping are all common during depression. During this stage, you should talk to someone you are comfortable with. You can opt for depression counseling in California that is conducted by experts at Psyche Fitness, Inc., where no one will judge you for the way you are feeling. You should avoid negative behaviors that may be harmful. This stage might be the longest. During this stage, you may need support.

• Acceptance: The acceptance stage doesn’t mean that your grief journey is over; it’s about honoring your pet and having gratitude for all the love you shared with your beloved pet. Accepting the situation means that you can begin to move on. You can find different ways to be grateful for the love you shared.
  

How long does it take to grieve a pet?

There is no specific time period for mourning the loss of our pet.  For some people, it takes weeks or months, while others may take years to move on. And some people never fully recover from the loss of their pet, although time usually fades their sense of loss.

Conclusion: Saying goodbye to your beloved pet can be one of the most difficult times for pet owners, but professionals at Psyche Fitness, Inc are there for you when you need pet loss support.

You’re not being silly for seeking help for losing your furry baby; you’re only being human, who’s compassionate about animals.  Don’t let anyone tell you that you’re being ridiculous, nor tell you, “Well, you still have your other dog, cat, etc.” Just like humans, everyone is unique with their own personality, which is the same for our furry babies.