Pet loss and grief during the holidays: Honoring your beloved companion

Photo by Stephanie Klepacki on Unsplash

For some people, losing a pet can be more devastating than losing a human loved one; the bond between human and animal is undeniable. Whether it has been one month or ten or more years, the loss can still impact you severely and at any moment. The holidays can be especially triggering, painful, and grief may rise unexpectedly. Your grief responses, whether physical, mental, cognitive, emotional, or spiritual, are valid, and you deserve to express that grief in your own way. Just because your pet may be gone doesn’t mean your connection to them is. You deserve to honor, remember, and connect with your pet in whatever way feels right for you. Often, having a plan to allow yourself time and space to do this can take some focus off the pain. Honoring and connecting with your beloved pet may look like taking time to sit in their favorite spot and reminisce, going for a walk or to the park where you once took them, looking at old photos, sharing memories and stories about them with others, or creating a mini altar with photos of them and their favorite toys, blanket, collar, and other items that were special to them. If you have other pets, allow them to be included in your rituals and remembrance.

Grief can be isolating; connecting with others during this difficult time can lessen the feeling of isolation and loneliness. I encourage you to reach out to supportive people in your life or attend a pet loss and grief support group. Knowing that others are experiencing the same thing you are and understand the pain you are going through can be powerful. You don’t have to go through this alone.

Taking care of yourself and acknowledging your needs are essential, so be kind and understanding to yourself during this time. Some ways to do this are by engaging in self-care, relaxation techniques, grounding exercises, or mindfulness activities to connect with yourself and what you need. Also, know that it is ok to modify or skip certain traditions, engagements, or activities if they are too painful or you don’t feel up to it. Create new traditions and rituals if you need to. Everyone experiences grief in their own way, so be patient with yourself, allow yourself grace, and practice self-compassion.

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Image by Deb Chitwood on Bits of Positivity