5 Stages of Grief When Losing a Pet

Admin / 29 – November – 2024 – 5 Stages of Grief When Losing a Pet

We go through various stages of grief when a pet that has been our constant companion leaves for good. It feels like the world has lost its color. No more jingling collars, funny antics, or warm welcomes every time we come home. This loss is often felt deeply because pets are not just animals, but family members who fill the space of our hearts.

This grief is very normal, and you are not alone. Many people feel the same grief when they lose their furry friend. This feeling is known as grief, which is a natural human reaction to loss. Grief is not an easy process, but understanding the stages it goes through can help us accept the feeling and move forward.

Psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, in her book “On Death and Dying”,[1] explains that grief has five stages that anyone can experience. Although not always experienced in order, understanding these stages can provide a new perspective on what we are feeling. Here are the five stages of grief according to Kübler-Ross that you may experience after losing a beloved pet.

1. Denial

In the initial grieving stage, you may find it difficult to accept the fact that your pet is gone. You still feel like they will appear in the corner of the room or hear their little steps on the floor. This denial is our body’s natural defense mechanism to avoid feeling too much pain.

At this stage, it is important to give yourself time. Let the emotions flow and don’t force yourself to “move on” immediately. Realizing that these feelings are part of the process can help you deal with them better.

2. Anger

Once the rejection starts to subside, anger often sets in. You may feel angry at yourself, the vet, or even the situation that caused the loss. Anger is an expression of the pain that often comes from feeling it is unfair to lose something so precious.

If you are feeling this stage of grieving, try to channel your anger in healthy ways, such as talking to a close friend, writing in a journal, or engaging in activities that help shift your focus.

3. Bargaining

At this stage, you may start to fantasize: “If only I had taken her to the doctor sooner,” or ”If only I had paid more attention to her signs of illness.” Thoughts like these are a form of trying to find control in a situation that feels out of control.

Remember that no one can predict the future. The grief of loss is a part of life, and there is nothing we can do to change what has happened.

4. Depression

When reality sets in, a deep sense of sadness can set in. You may feel demoralized, cry often, or find it difficult to go about your daily routine. This stage is a reflection of the actual loss felt.

It is important to understand that feeling sad is normal. If these feelings feel too overwhelming, do not hesitate to seek support, whether from friends, family, or even professional counselors. Sharing stories and feelings can help ease the burden on the heart.

5. Acceptance

The final stage of grief is acceptance. This doesn’t mean you forget about your pet or stop missing them, but rather accept the fact that they are gone and find a way to move on. You may start remembering them with a smile instead of tears.

This stage can also be a time to celebrate their life, for example by creating a photo album, planting a memory tree, or simply telling beautiful stories about them to others.

Honoring Your Own Feelings

The grieving process is a unique journey for each person. There is no right or wrong way to go through it, and no specific time limit to “heal.” The most important thing is to give yourself space to feel every emotion that arises.

If you find it difficult to go through this process, do not hesitate to seek community or support from people who understand this loss. One way to process the grief of losing a pet is to give #OneLastKindness such as a meaningful farewell. Pet To Nature, an eco-friendly bio-cremation service, can help you design a loving farewell, create a keepsake, including an intimate memorial service. With this service, you can celebrate their life while paying your final respects in a meaningful and caring way. Their love and beautiful memories will always live on in your heart. ❤