The death of a beloved animal can be almost like losing a friend or a close relative. It's a heartbreaking experience for anyone to lose a pet, but the ordeal can be especially challenging for a child. Though you can’t shield them from grief, there are some ways you can help them cope if they lose a pet.

How to Help Children Mourn the Loss of a Pet

1. Hold a Ceremony

Funeral and memorial services are the traditional way to lay loved ones to rest and say final goodbyes. If your children lose a pet, they may take comfort in a small ceremony to honor the life of their furry friend. You can light candles, plant a tree in their favorite spot, or gather together to share fun stories about the animal. There’s no specific way you should conduct a pet memorial or burial, but no matter which you choose, allow the child to participate in whatever manner with which they feel comfortable.

2. Give Them a Keepsake

Even though your child’s beloved pet is no longer around, that doesn’t mean every trace of their lives is gone. A keepsake or memento that reminds your child of their pet may comfort them by providing an emotional connection. For instance, giving them the dog or cat’s favorite toy will help them remember fun, happy memories before the animal’s passing.

3. Read Special Books

Depending on your children’s ages, they may not fully understand that death is permanent. Fortunately, children’s books are available to help you convey difficult concepts like love and death to young minds. For instance, “The Goodbye Book” by Todd Parr discusses the type of feelings young readers may encounter as they say goodbye to a loved one. Another example is “Ida, Always” by Caron Levis and Charles Santoso. Their book details the emotions you may feel when a loved one is terminally ill and passes away. Reading these books may help your child understand what it means to lose a beloved pet in a way that is appropriate for their age. Reading to them will also give both of you a chance to spend time together and talk about your feelings. 

 

No one wants to lose a pet, but you can trust the compassionate team at Oahu Pet Crematory in Kailua, HI, to deliver exceptional memorial services. For over 27 years, they’ve provided pet cremation services to families throughout the island as well as a wide variety of gorgeous, customizable pet urns. To learn more about their services, visit them online, or have your vet contact a helpful team member at (808) 371-7531 today.