Pet loss

Coping with the Loss of a Pet

All of the sudden you walk into the door and there is emptiness, you see no pet there to greet you curling around your legs, wagging his tail, attempting to please you, The one who sits at your feet or curls up on your lap with no judgment at all.As a Psychologist, I said to a friend “listening and sharing is important, we all need someone to share our thoughts with; animals listen with no judgment at all…just a look and sit at your feet”. He asked me “can I teach his wife to do that”? The pet does not talk back, and may be more responsive then your spouse or date.

Therefore, the loss of a pet is still “grief and loss”. The grieving process comes in stages; loneliness, and depression such as “I miss my pet”.

  •     Crying is welcome – Don’t pent up any feelings of sadness inside. Let them out and cry as much as you need to. Crying is therapeutic and it processes emotion.
  •     Help out with a local pet shelter – Being around animals in need can not only temporarily help fill the void left by the loss of your pet but, you’ll efforts will make a difference in the lives of animals in great need.
  •     Temporarily take in a pet until a permanent home is found – If there is an abundance of love in your heart for animals, give one a home that better than a pet shelter.
  •     Start a new activity you have wanted to do after work – Keep your mind occupied as much as possible so time can slowly heal your heart.
  •     Get together for dinner with your friends – Be around as many positive people as possible as their company will raise your spirit.
  •     Work with the nursing homes, Hospice and Children’s hospitals that take a pet in to give them comfort.

 

Dr. Wendy J. James is a Psychologist & Owner of Life Consultants (http://www.drwendyjames.com) is available for interviews in studio, skype, and by phone. Dr. Wendy is also author of the new book “The Princess Chronicles – A Bedside Companion.” (November 2013).

 

Dr. Wendy Interview On HLN (VIDEO)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lX8kW-OiLMA

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