Grief Resources
If you are experiencing the passing of your first pet or your tenth pet, the feelings are always the same. When you have opened your home and your heart to a four legged friend, they quickly become part of your life and when they pass away it is like a small part of you is leaving with them.
From time to time individuals have an extra difficult time dealing with their pet's death. We have included this page with some helpful resources that may shed some light on what you're going through and may provide some help. Hopefully from the resources provided, you realize what you're feeling is normal. The more you grieve for your friend the more it shows what a strong bond you had. Take those special moments and memories to heart and carry them with you. While your pet's body is gone the feelings of loyalty, friendship and companionship you shared will be with you for the rest of your life. Cherish that.
Coping with the Loss of a Pet
Grieving is a highly individual experience. Some people find grief following the loss of a pet comes in stages, where they experience different feelings such as denial, anger, guilt, depression, and eventually acceptance and resolution. Others find that their grief is more cyclical, coming in waves, or a series of highs and lows.
The lows are likely to be deeper and longer at the beginning and then gradually become shorter and less intense as time goes by. Still, even years after a loss, a sight, a sound, or a special anniversary can spark memories that trigger a strong sense of grief.
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Reach out to others who have lost pets and talk about it
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Don’t be afraid to be emotional
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Create a legacy to remember your faithful friend
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Look after yourself
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Seek professional help if you need it
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Try to maintain your normal routine
Pet Loss Grief Support Services
29043 – 7001 Mumford Road
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Online Grief/Bereavement Resources
http://www.helpguide.org/articles/grief-loss/coping-with-pet-loss.htm
Helpful PDF Brochures
