Your dog is a much-loved part of your family, and their death can cause enormous feelings of grief and loss. Here’s our guide to help find the right support when you’ve lost your beloved pet.
Saying goodbye
You might have lost your pet suddenly or have faced the heartbreaking decision to put them to sleep to end their pain. Your vet should support you with the decision and explain the process so that you’ll have the opportunity to say goodbye. You may decide to stay with your pooch at the end or leave the room. Ultimately, it’s about what’s best for your dog and how you can help them have a calm and peaceful end. If you decide to leave, you can often come back afterwards to say goodbye.
Talk to your loved ones
Your family members, especially those who live with you, loved your pooch too. They’ll have their own feelings of grief, and you can support them by talking about your dog, so they know it’s OK to do the same. Sharing your grief can ease the burden. If you have children, this may be their first experience of loss, and you can help them navigate it. Finding supportive friends can also help. Dog people will understand, but others may downplay your grief, which can be hard on difficult days. The language you use will vary depending on their age and level of understanding.
Take your time
There’s no right or wrong way to grieve. You might feel fine one day and tearful the next. A significant date might be difficult, but sometimes the feelings of missing your pooch can come out of nowhere. Your feelings are valid, and acknowledging and expressing them is all part of the process. Some people experience physical symptoms, such as loss of appetite or difficulty sleeping. Look after yourself and speak to your GP if you’re worried about yourself or a loved one.
You’ll never forget your pet, but your feelings will change with time. You might be tempted to get another dog, but don’t rush. A new pet can bring up confusing feelings, especially for young children, so it’s usually best to wait until you’re through the initial grief and ready to welcome a new family member.
Create a memorial
A memorial to your pooch helps you say goodbye and can create a focal point for you to remember them. You can display their photo and keep their collar or a favourite toy. If your pooch was cremated, you can choose somewhere special to scatter their ashes or keep them at home. You can also choose a home burial in some circumstances or bury their ashes and plant a memorial tree or plant nearby.
Donating to a local rescue centre or dog charity can help other dogs live happier lives, or you might decide to volunteer. This can be a great option if you enjoy spending time with other dogs but aren’t ready for a new pet.
Professional help
Our dogs are precious to us, and the grief you feel after a loss is as real and significant as that for any other loved one. If your feelings are overwhelming or you’re struggling after a long period of grief, speaking with a professional can help. Visit your GP to see what support is available and whether you can speak to an NHS counsellor. Your vet may also be able to recommend a bereavement counsellor specialising in pet loss.
You can find more support via the Blue Cross Pet Loss Support – free, confidential support for pet bereavement: –
🔗 https://www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-bereavement-and-pet-loss
📞 Helpline: 0800 096 6606 (UK only, 8:30 am–8:30 pm daily)