Dealing with Pet Loss During the Holidays

Dealing with Pet Loss During the Holidays

               Losing a pet any time of year can be a heartbreaking experience but when it happens around the holidays, getting through the first Christmas after the loss of a pet can be difficult for many people.  Here are some ideas to help ease the loss.

• First, know that your feelings are valid. We often feel closer to our pets than to some of the people in our lives. Pets are there for us every day giving unconditional love, and when they die, the grief we feel is real.  Know that it is perfectly OK to feel this grief and sense of loss.  Give yourself time and permission to feel sad.
• Buy or make a special decoration or ornament.  Having a special item in memory of your pet can bring a sense of peace and is a nice way to remember and include your pet in spirit.
• Light a candle or luminary as a remembrance.  Saying a small prayer or poem or simply saying your pet’s name as you light a candle is a nice way to remember your pet.
• Share special memories or photos. Reminiscing about your pet or sharing favorite photos with close family or friends who understand your loss can be bittersweet but cathartic as well.
• Donate money or time in your pet’s memory.  Donating money to an animal shelter, veterinary school or other reputable cause in memory of your pet or volunteering at a local shelter can help give another pet in need a chance while remembering your own pet.

Consider creating new traditions, say no to events if you’re just not up to being merry and talk to a therapist if you are experiencing profound depression.

Pet loss can be difficult, especially around the holidays, but remembering your pet in special ways can help ease the pain.

               This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

https://petlosspsychotherapy.com/f/10-ways-to-cope-with-pet-loss-during-the-holidays