Why You Need to Take Pet Loss Seriously

Why You Need to Take Pet Loss Seriously

Many of us share a strong bond and love with our animal companions, especially cats and dogs. They are not just pets rather they are part of us that offers companionship, love, fun, and joy to our lives. Author of William and Tibby Forever, Lynda Hamblen, shares in her book the privilege of sharing life with a furry baby. The personal take of the life of her furry friends and eccentricities of the other cats by Hamblen shows a poignant story of that love and bond. Every relationship with a pet is different and unique, making them ingrained in our hearts. These pets in your homes will become part of your family and daily life. You’ll build plenty of memories together— some of which are wonderful and other times messy. This love and fondness grow bigger daily; however, the time we spend with our pets is short. When cherished pets die, it can be devastating, bringing intense pain and emptiness within us. 

Unfortunately, not many understand the feelings of sorrow and grief when a pet dies. Some don’t understand the heartbreak of losing a loved one who has shaped your life. Losing a pet is not just losing someone. There will be a void in life that begs to be filled. It changes daily routines and can have ripple effects. Too often, society ridicules grieving fur-parent for reacting in a certain way due to a pet’s death. Hence, this article will present critical reasons as to why such events must be taken seriously than what people currently do. 

They are Family

Many pet owners consider their furry companions to be part of their family. They are not “just a cat” or “just a pet” rather they are a huge source of joy in someone’s life. It is unfair how many assume that just because they are nothing like a human that when they passed the suffering is less keenly felt. In truth, your pet cats are nothing. They don’t call them best friends for nothing. Most pet owners celebrate pets’ birthdays, take pictures with them, bring them anywhere, and even confide in them. Some would say, “buy another pet,” but it is not easy. There will never be another pet quite like the one you lost. You may adopt another pet someday but not because you want to fill the hole torn from your heart. Pets enrich your lives, and in return, you enrich theirs. Healing first before taking another leap might be the answer to mending a broken heart. 

It Strengthens Your Relationship

There is always something special with the connection between pets and their owners. This bond is so strong that it can be daunting for any of the parties to leave. And because of the pain, you refuse to acknowledge the passing of your pet. As a result, your emotions will take a toll on your bonds with other humans and animals. The build-up of emotions can result in you having a short temper or causing arguments that can severely affect your relationship with the people around you. This creates a toxic atmosphere that stops you from moving towards a positive resolution. Instead, allow yourself to grieve with others and share their own sentiments. 

It is for the Good of Your Mental Health

Cats and other cherished pets provide companionship, reduce loneliness, lessen risks of depression, and ease anxiety. These furry creatures become your emotional support system. Many studies indicate how people who have lost their pets have to be compassionate and forgiving. Their sudden death can put a strain on you physically, emotionally, and mentally. It has become socially acceptable to bottle up grief and agony inside, but failing to grieve properly can cause serious issues. Not dealing with unresolved grief will stress you leading to depressions and illnesses, such as headaches and colds. Grieving might be to honor your beloved’s passing, but it is also a means to healing yourself. Give yourself permission to cry and find an outlet for difficult emotions. Don’t try pushing your feelings beneath the surface. 

It Provides Closure

Again, the death of a beloved pet can disrupt your routine and sense of identity. Hence, grieving properly allows you to accept the fact allowing you to move on with your life. Acknowledge your grief and allow yourself to express it. The closure is often mistaken as forgetting your pet, but, in fact, it is accepting the reality of the situation. With this, you can better process the emotions you are feeling. Closure is all about the power of loss and how life continues despite it.