'Grief never ends...but it changes. It's a passage, not a place to stay. Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith...it is the price of Love'- unknown
You have put your pet first
There is no time more difficult in a pet owner's life than having to say goodbye to a beloved animal companion. You may have varying emotions such as guilt, uncertainty, anger, fear and overwhelming sadness. But you have made the right decision, and it comes from a place of love. Be proud of yourself that you have found the strength to put your sadness aside, and focus on what is best for your pet. Your pet was very lucky to have a caring pet-parent like you. Please watch this short film Denali by Ben Moon, as it recognises there is no easy way to say goodbye to a dear friend.
Grief
Grief is a normal & natural response to loss, and the early days and weeks (and even years) can be tough as you adjust to a new life routine. Give yourself permission to grieve and find outlets to express your grief (writing, talking with friends, exercise). Please click on my suggested online resources below, contact your healthcare provider, or seek caring, non-judgemental support in those around you. Additionally, I recommend Linda from ‘Life Pauses with Linda’ pet loss counselling to help you through this difficult time. Remember, you are not alone.
Recommended websites for pet bereavement support (the first three websites are based in the USA). Grief books can also be beneficial.
http://www.pet-loss.net/handouts.shtml
https://www.rainbowsbridge.com/
http://www.veterinarywisdom.com/petparents
http://www.ourwonderfulpets.com/
Children
Please consider printing this children's workbook: I miss my pet (by Katie Nurmi) to comfort your children after pet loss. Also click on this link to help teach your children how to express grief in emotionally healthy ways.
Helpful ways to remember and honour you pet, while helping you through your grieving process...
Plant a tree to 'signify rebirth.' This tree will be in your pet's honour and is a way to mourn a pet in a giving manner. If you have chosen individual cremation, also consider RainbowPaws to create a lasting memorial by transforming your pet's ashes into new life through infusion into a living plant.
Consider displaying one or more items (paw print, lock of hair, collar, or favourite toy) in a window-box frame with a photo of your pet. Or check out AshtoArt who make art, pendants, and jewellery crafted from your pet's ashes.
If you have chosen a home burial, consider having a special headstone placed in this area. For other memorial tributes, click here.
See this Pet Loss ebook resource
Write a poem, story, or blog about your pet. A written tribute will help you process your emotions, plus if it is posted online, it may help other pet owners through this difficult time.
No matter what ceremony or tribute you choose, find comfort that their memories will live on.