Mourning a pet
Most people consider a pet a member of their family. So when a pet dies, the loss of his or her companionship can be devastating.
If your pet dies:
Record your feelings; keep a journal or write a poem.
Find a pet-loss support group through a local humane society or your veterinarian, or check for one online.
Prepare a memorial for your pet.
If a child also feels the loss, expressing your grief may reassure your child that sadness is natural. Trying to protect your child by saying the pet ran away can cause more harm than good, particularly if the child later learns the truth and feels betrayed.
Remember that the loss of a pet can be even harder for an older adult. Stay in closer touch with an older friend or family member as they grieve the loss of a pet.
McClatchy-Tribune News Service
SOURCE: The Humane Society of the United States