How can I overcome grieving the loss of a pet?

Response

Losing a cherished pet can be distressing. This is particularly true when the pet owner has had the pet for many years or when the pet reminds us of a deceased loved one. The passing of a pet is a reason for genuine sorrow and should be acknowledged as such. The loss of a pet falls into the category sometimes referred to as “unspoken losses.” We don’t mind everyone knowing how much we miss a departed family member or friend. However, it can feel awkward to admit how much a departed pet meant to us. Often, grieving pet owners must mourn in silence and ponder how they will ever overcome the loss of their pet.

The loss of a pet is distressing because often the pet offered us unconditional love and acceptance when nobody else did. They were usually delighted to see us when we returned home or provided companionship during our loneliest moments. Their innocence and amusing behaviors brought us years of joy and laughter. When something significant to us is no longer there, a void is created that takes time to fill. Experiencing grief for any type of loss, including the passing of a pet, is normal and healthy, and it’s acceptable to allow yourself those emotions.

Even while grieving the loss of a pet, we should remain grounded. There is a tendency in our culture to anthropomorphize animals, so part of the grief we experience may be due to the loss of the idealized relationship we imagined we had with our pet. We may have unconsciously assumed Fido or Fluffy felt for us as deeply as we did for them, and our grief may be comparable to what we would feel for a close friend. Throughout the years, we attributed thoughts, values, and even imaginary conversations to this pet. If we dressed our pet in clothing, gave it a human name, and showered it with affection and treats, then our grieving may be more intense than it would be for an animal that we treated as an animal. Overcoming that kind of grief may also involve acknowledging to ourselves that we sought solace in an animal.Rather than in Him. We can ask Him to show us how to find true consolation and fill that void with His presence «Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. », (Hebrews 13:5).

Grief can come in stages, even when we are grieving the loss of a pet. The sight of an empty food bowl or a half-chewed slipper might spark tears. Allowing yourself to be in the moment and experience that pang of loss is actually a healthy way to process it. We can pause for a moment and, through our tears, thank God for the years we had with our beloved furry friend. Many people think they don’t want another pet after the death of one, but the grief stage is not the time to make final declarations. It’s also not the time for well-meaning family or friends to shove another pet into our arms when we have not expressed a desire for that. Outsiders may conclude that all we need is another pet, but, for a pet lover grieving the loss of a faithful companion, there is not another one. The lost pet was unique, and it’s okay to spend time mourning the loss of that uniqueness.

As with any deep soul pain, God is our source of comfort. He is “near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” «The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; And saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. », (Psalm 34:18). Who better to express our sorrow to than the One who created animals for our enjoyment? Jesus said that not even a sparrow falls to the ground without our Father knowing about it «Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. », (Matthew 10:29). He created those sparrows and knows

God created each one. He also designed our pets and comprehends the role they play in our hearts. Because He, too, values animals, He is a secure haven to confide in with our overwhelming emotions.

The passing of any creature is always a reminder of life’s brevity. Life was not intended to end. Sin brought about that consequence (Genesis 2:16-17). When our pets pass away, our grief can serve as a solemn reminder of sin’s impact on this world. It also underscores the brevity of our own lives. We, too, will face death and judgment «And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: », (Hebrews 9:27). For those who belong to Christ, our judgment has already been fulfilled by His sacrifice and resurrection on our behalf «For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.», (2 Corinthians 5:21). For those who do not know Christ, the loss of a pet may be a call from God. He desires to capture our attention. More significant than the passing of a pet is the eternal passing of a human soul.

Grief is a temporary phase and does not endure indefinitely. Healthy individuals allow themselves time to mourn and then permit the wound to heal. Moving forward does not diminish the significance of the loss. It signifies that life is meant for the living. Continuing to grieve benefits no one—including the departed loved one—by prolonging sorrow. Progressing after the loss of a pet may involve welcoming a new pet, exploring a new interest, or engaging in a new connection. The loss of a pet can actually signify the start of a new phase without the commitment of pet ownership. We can embrace this fresh phase, whatever it may involve, and seek ways to concentrate on that which is everlasting so that our lives produce fruit for God’s kingdom «that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being

fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;, (Colossians 1:10).