Helping You Cope With The Loss Of Your Pet

We know how hard it can be to cope with the loss of your pet. It takes time, but there are some steps you can take to help you.

We’re always there for you

Coping with the loss of a pet is an emotional and difficult experience for any pet owner.

It’s important to understand that it’s completely normal to grieve in the same way you would a person. After all, they spent their lifetime giving you love, laughter and joy.

Everybody handles the emotions of losing a pet differently, and this guide aims to give you some advice and coping mechanisms to help you during this difficult time. Remember, the grieving process only happens gradually - it can’t be forced or hurried - so be patient and allow yourself to let go naturally.

Our caring team is always there to help you and your family, so please don’t be afraid to speak to us for advice and support.

Put pen to paper

Expressing your feelings through a diary is a good way to process your loss and come to terms with the situation.

It can also help you remember the good times you shared with your pet, creating a unique book of memories that you can treasure.

Writing your feelings down can also be a good option for owners who struggle expressing them out loud.

Organise a ceremony

Celebrating your pet’s life with a ceremony is often one of the first steps to a healthy healing process.

A funeral offers you closure, and it’s a good way to gather your friends and family who also shared great memories with your pet to support you.

Create a memorial

Memorials are a thoughtful way to remember and celebrate your pet’s life. You could create a scrapbook full of your favourite photos, or plant a tree or flowers in your garden to remember them.

Other ways you can remember your pet include creating a plaque or having their name engraved on a keepsake, such as jewellery or a photo frame.

Keep talking

Seek comfort in others who understand your grief and talk to them about how you’re feeling and the memories you have.

Just being able to sit with a cup of tea and a friendly, caring friend can help.

Try something new

The absence of a pet means there could be a gap in your daily routine; for example, you might be used to going for daily walks, or feeding them at certain times of the day.

Try and fill your time with new activities to help take your mind off your grief. This could include a new hobby, catching up with an old friend or visiting new places.

Taking care of yourself and your family

The stress of losing a pet can take up a lot of your energy, so it’s important to look after your physical wellbeing and that of your family.

Remember to eat a healthy diet, get plenty of sleep and exercise regularly; these all help boost your mood too.

Care for other pets

If you have another pet, the change in circumstances might affect them too.

They may refuse to eat or drink, or they could suffer from lethargy. Your emotional state will influence their mood, so give them plenty of love and attention, and try and stick to the routine they’re used to.

Moving on

When the time is right for you and your family to move on, you may consider getting a new pet.

Your new pet will never replace the one you’ve lost, and every animal is different, so take time to embrace and welcome your new family member.

Medivet Recognised for Helping Pet Owners with the Final Goodbye

Veterinary teams at Medivet have undergone special training to help them support pet owners through the difficult process of saying goodbye to a cherished companion.