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Grief
Many, many
pet owners experience a very strong and lasting sense of pain
and grief after the passing of a special pet. Part of their trouble
stems from having so few human friends who actually understand
the deep sense of grief they are experiencing. Even a close friend
might say "Oh, just go get another one" or "Gosh, it was only
a cat". This can be a very lonely and private grief since the
pet owner often is reluctant to disclose the source of their saddened
state for fear of ridicule. Plus it is very common for the pet
owner to think they see or hear their deceased pet in the home
or out in the yard long after it is gone. If someone hasn't personally
experienced the loss of a dear pet they simply will be unable
to connect with the pet owner who is grief stricken.
The bereaved
pet owner often is self-critical, too. Reading their thoughts
we would recognize self chastisement such as "Oh, this is ridiculous
feeling like this over a Cocker Spaniel" or "I can't believe loosing
a cat would wreck my entire life!" And the loss of a pet often
brings up memories of other losses in a person's life and a vicious
cycle of sadness, helplessness and even clinical depression can
result. Our pets are THAT important to us and we don't have to
apologize for feeling that way!
Those pet
owners who feel they need to talk to someone who understands their
sadness have hope! There are a number of grief support groups
and counselors who specialize in pet loss counseling. Never feel
ashamed or belittle yourself for having strong feelings of loss
and sadness over a deceased pet. You are NOT alone in your sadness.
You will find
a short list of contacts you can make following this discussion.
As well, your state's Veterinary Medical Association (ask your
veterinarian for the phone number) will direct you to a nearby
pet loss specialist.
If you still
can't find one, contact me and I will find one for you.
T. J. Dunn,
Jr. DVM
  
The
preceding article has been added to our resources with the kind
cooperation and permission from T. J. Dunn, Jr. DVM www.thepetcenter.com
and www.petfooddirect.com
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