Whether your pet’s death occurs suddenly or is something you’ve anticipated for many months, keep in mind that your cat or dog was one of your closest and best-loved companions, and you are likely to feel their loss deeply. You will need to move, at your own pace, through seven stages of grief:

  1. Shock and denial
  2. Pain and guilt
  3. Anger and bargaining
  4. Depression, reflection, and loneliness
  5. Adjustment to life
  6. Your new normal
  7. Acceptance and hope

Everyone experiences the loss of a cherished animal companion differently. No rules exist to dictate the order in which you navigate these stages, whether you go through all of them, or the time you need to complete the process.

The most important thing to remember is that you never need to be alone as you mourn. Lean on family and friends as much as necessary. You know you’d want them to come to you if they were grieving. Your south Austin Oliver Animal Hospital team is here to help by providing recommendations for coping before and after your pet’s death

Preparing for the end of your pet’s life

If your dog or cat has a chronic disease that you know is terminal, you have a unique heartache. You also have a chance to create wonderful experiences for your pet while they’re still with you as well as memories to store in your heart after they’re gone. 

Feline guru Jackson Galaxy, also known as Cat Daddy, was devastated when his 15-year-old calico cat, Caroline, received a cancer diagnosis. He chose to go public with his private sorrow, making this announcement, accompanied by pictures of Caroline with him, on Facebook: 

“This is Caroline, my companion of 15 years. We recently got some bad news from the vet about her health. I usually prefer to keep these things private, but this community has been a real source of strength and support for me. Over the next few weeks I’ll be posting some vlog-style updates on my YouTube channel—I hope that by sharing this journey publicly, I can help destigmatize the grief of pet loss and give some insight into my thought process as we help Caroline make this transition.”

Love and support poured in from thousands of Galaxy’s fans, some of whom told their own stories. Cat Daddy continues to share “Caroline’s Cancer Journal” on YouTube. The response to his online presentations feels like an enormous, caring community joining in for a worldwide hug.

You can make your pet’s last days special in your own way. Does your dog love playing fetch on the beach and romping in the waves? Make as many trips to the shore as you can, and take plenty of pictures. Does your cat have a special friend, animal or human, outside your home? Arrange as many visits as possible, and record them in photos or videos. If you have always wanted your pet’s portrait created by a professional artist, schedule a sitting today. Spoil your pet shamelessly with all the toys, treats, and play sessions they want. No matter how long or short, a life can be well and fully lived.

Mourning your pet’s passing

Some people choose burial in a pet cemetery with a funeral ceremony. Others prefer cremation’s simplicity and may or may not wish to keep their pet’s ashes. Whatever you decide to do, make the right decision for yourself. Anyone who criticizes you for how you’re mourning doesn’t deserve your company right now. 

As you bid your pet a fond farewell, you need to consider your own needs. Although few companies provide bereavement leave for pet loss, some do, and the concept is gaining popularity. If you feel the need for a little time off, request it. If paid leave isn’t available, determine whether you have room in your budget to take a few days off without pay. Conversely, if you have always relied on work as the best remedy during stressful times, focus on your job. If you think therapy might help, contact a licensed therapist who specializes in grief related to pet loss. Many therapists offer appointments online. 

The length of time you need to progress through the stages of grief is unique. A person who begins to feel OK again after a month may have adored their pet as much as one who needs five years to work through their pain. Although you may desire periodic solitude as you grieve, recognize that you’re not alone, and reach out to fellow pet lovers whenever you feel the need. If you’d like to see some quotations from famous people who’ve lost a cherished dog, cat, rabbit, bird, or mongoose, you might enjoy “The Book of Pet Love and Loss: Words of Comfort and Wisdom from Remarkable People” by Sara Bader.

Although your departed pet will live in your heart forever, you’re likely to wake up one day knowing you’re ready to share your home with another dog or cat. When you adopt your new furry friend, contact our Oliver Animal Hospital team, and we’ll give your new pet a healthy start.