How to Accept Pet Loss

Dogs are often called man's best friend. They follow us around, bark at those we don't like, and give us companionship when others don't. When your dog passes on, it can be a devastating event and hard to accept; however, it necessary to eventually to move on. It is one of the five stages of the grieving process. It is also one of the hardest stages to overcome without help.

Instructions

    • 1

      Cry it out. It is completely natural to feel guilty, angry, depressed and even deny that it really happened. You had some great years with your dog, it is okay to cry and let the feelings out over the good times that you shared with him.

    • 2

      Talk to someone. It is absolutely asinine to think that you can handle the loss of one of your best friends all on your own. Talking to someone who knew and loved your dog like you did can help your grieving process happen quicker.

    • 3

      Hold a funeral. Coping with death is difficult, and hearing others say nice things about your dog can help you feel at ease that he was loved and in a better place now. Holding a funeral for your dog, whether you choose to bury him or not, will make denial more difficult and acceptance of the fact that he is really gone a little more realistic and easier to deal with.

    • 4

      Pick out an urn. Whether you choose to bury your your dog or have him cremated, an urn can be a good reminder of all the good times you shared, the sloppy dog kisses and the floppy ears that were hard not to love. Think of this urn as a token of life remembered, not a memory of grief shared.