920 Lawrence Road • Kemah, Texas 77565 Phone: 281.334.2273 • Fax:281.334.2280

Loosing a Pet
Our companion animals are family members with whom we share a unique bond. It is difficult to imagine our lives without them. Sadly, companion animals do not live as long as people do. Sooner or later, everyone who cares for a pet must face the illness, old age or accidental death of their beloved animal friend.

We may have to deal with the difficult decision of whether or when to euthanize a very sick animal to spare him or her further suffering and provide a dignified, peaceful death. Or, because of our financial circumstances, we may be torn about what medical procedures should be done for an animal who has given us loyalty and love. These decisions are some of the hardest we may ever have to make, and are often fraught with confusion and guilt. It is important to be well informed and aware of all humane options in order to make the best possible choice on behalf of a pet.

It is as natural and necessary to grieve for the loss of an animal friend as it is for any loved one who dies. And it is important to have compassion and support in one's time of grief. A pet's illness, accident, death or need for euthanasia can trigger powerful emotions. At such times, many individuals feel confused, frightened, angry, guilty and sad. These emotions are all normal.
 

Helping your child when the family pet passes
Helping Your Child When the Family Pet Dies Facing the death of a family pet can be one of the most traumatic events in a child's young life. Understand that your child may feel a variety of emotions-from emptiness and sadness to guilt and anger at friends whose pets are still alive. Your children may worry that the animal's death is their fault, and may wonder what happens to animals after they die. Some kids may even worry that other children and classmates will ridicule them for loving their pet so much.

Here are a few activities that may help your child deal with his or her grief:

    • It may help some children to draw a picture of their pet, or write a letter to their pet.

    • Sometimes it can help to have a memorial service, including the entire family and friends who knew your pet. If you have a
      backyard, you can plant a tree or flowers in your pet's honor. Your children may want to help you plan this.

    • It may make some children better to keep something that their pet really loved-such as a collar, tag or favorite toy.

    • You and your child can gather up photographs of your pet to make into a photo album. This can be arranged chronologically,       starting with pictures of when the animal was a baby. Your child can also include information about your pet's favorite toys, treats       and things to do.

    • Sitting down with the family and sharing memories of your pet can make your children sad--but it can make them laugh, too, and       will help your child understand that everyone is feeling the loss as well.

    • Although your child may not feel like it, it can help to engage in his or her regular activities-such as going to practice or       rehearsal after school, playing outside or going for a bike ride.
 

Recommended Reading
Adult Children
Coping with the Loss of a Pet: A Gentle Guide for All Who Love a Pet, Christina M. Lemieux, Ph.D.; Wallace R. Clark & Co.; 1988. Life and Loss: A Guide to Help Grieving Children, Linda Goldman;
Accelerated Development; Taylor & Francis Group.
Dog Gone, Howard Bronson; Bestsell Publications, 6 Samba Circle, Sandwich, MA 02563; 1994. Because of Flowers and Dancers, Sandra S. Brackenridge; Veterinary Practice Publishing Co.; 1994.
Legacies of Love: A Gentle Guide to Healing from the Loss of Your Animal Loved One audiobook, Teresa Wagner. Dog Heaven, Cat Heaven, Cynthia Rylant; The Blue Press; Scholastic, Inc., (212) 343-6100.