Regardless of the quality of pet care that you provide your furry friends, you can expect to outlive them. In other words, there will undoubtedly come a time when you have to say goodbye. While losing a family pet is always devastating, there are ways to make the grieving process a little easier. 

A Guide to Handling the Loss of Your Pet

1. Reach Out for Help 

When a loved one dies, friends will undoubtedly offer their love and support. When a pet dies, people are not always inclined to reach out. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean they don't want to help. If you’re having a hard time, call family members. Also, join some online forums filled with others who have recently lost a pet, or ask your pet care provider about support groups in the area. 

2. Memorialize Your Pet 

There are dozens of ways to memorialize beloved pets. For example, you could create a plaque for cremated remains or a tombstone for the area where they are buried. You could also plant a tree or place an engraved stone in your pet’s favorite spot in the garden. And don’t forget the photos; make a collage using hundreds of pictures, or order a large canvas print of your favorite photo to hang in your home or office. 

3. Go Easy on Yourself 

People often feel that they shouldn’t mourn the loss of a pet like they would that of a person, so they attempt to bottle up their grief. A loss is a loss, and you’re entitled to feel devastated in the days and weeks that follow. Try to go easy on yourself, especially if the death hits you harder then anticipated, and don’t be afraid to acknowledge the negative emotions; the best way to work through them is to embrace them. 

Families in the Shenandoah Valley can turn to Woodworth Animal Hospital for quality pet care for their furry friends. Located in Augusta County, VA, this full-service vet office was founded in 1939 and treats animals at all stages of life. Whether your new puppy needs vaccinations or your aging cat needs weight management services, you can count on their warm and compassionate staff. To learn more about the pet care services they provide, visit their website or call (540) 942-5163.