How to Cope With a Lost Pet Dog

Dogs are loyal, attentive, caring and always there for you, so when they pass away, it can be extremely traumatic. The emotions that many pet owners feel when their dogs are no longer with them are often similar to those felt when it is a loved family member or friend who passes away. Dealing with the emotions is difficult, but there are some things that may help comfort those experiencing the loss of a dog.

Instructions

    • 1

      Draw a picture of your dog, write a poem or song or create a garden in your pet's honor. Expressing yourself creatively will often help you to deal with the grief you are feeling. Finding a creative outlet for your grief helps to keep the memory of your pooch alive and also helps to release some of that negative emotion.

    • 2

      Attend a support group that helps those who have lost their pets, recommends the Humane Society of the United States. Here you will likely talk to those who are going through the same difficult time as you, which may help you begin to feel better. You may also learn coping techniques from the other attendees at the meeting. Talking about your dog may help you to move on with your life and leave the grief behind. Ask your veterinarian's office or local animal shelters to provide you with information about local pet-loss support groups.

    • 3

      Talk to a mental health professional about your feelings. Sometimes, just talking to someone about the feelings you are experiencing is enough to help them go away. Working with a mental health professional may also teach you how to deal with your feelings and understand them, so that you can make the grief and pain subside.

    • 4

      Obtain another pet or spend more time with one that you already have, suggests the Ashes to Ashes website. Sometimes, the only way to move past the feelings of grief is to focus your love and attention on another animal. Getting a new pet doesn't mean you are forgetting about your lost dog---doing so just means you have a lot of love to give. Besides, the new addition will likely bring joy and happiness back into your life.