Coping with Pet Loss During the Holidays

Coping with pet loss is difficult, but during the holidays it can be really tough. We feel the need to be "up" for everyone around us and, when we have experienced a loss, we carry that sadness with us, which can wear us out physically as well as emotionally. We need the opportunity to grieve the loss. It is a natural process and aids in healing a broken heart. Pushing those feelings aside can be detrimental to our health. It is important to acknowledge our sadness, perhaps by confiding in those who understand. It is a dagger through the grieving person's heart when someone quips "It was only a pet. You can always get another one." Ouch! Supportive family and friends are essential to be able to talk about and cry for the pet who has died.

Because pets are family members, there is a huge void where they used to be. Holiday memories are abundant and the grieving person should be encouraged to remember and share rituals or memories of their pet during the holidays. "Remember how Jinx used to wait by his bowl for his piece of turkey?" "Remember how Sassie always drank out of the water in the tree stand?" Maybe this is the time to purchase a special ornament in the pets' memory, or begin a memory box or book with pictures and mementos of the good times shared with a beloved pet.

People who are grieving the loss of a pet can also experience physical changes. It is important to eat well and exercise to help prevent health problems often associated with loss. Going for a walk and getting some fresh air can benefit the grieving person. Treat yourself (or the grieving person) to time at a spa, read a book, or consider volunteering at a local rescue organization or shelter. Doing something good for others feels good and gives us another focus while we are going through a tough time in life. Even though we will never forget our special pet family member, in time the pain will ease and we will be able to remember and talk about them without so many tears.

The Rainbow Bridge poem reminds us that ... "one day we will be spotted ... and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart. Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together .... "

Wishing you love and healing and all of the blessings the holidays can bring,
Gordy & Nanci Kyhn
Whispering Pines Pet Cremation Services