Losing a pet is one of the hardest things any of us can go through. They’re more than just animals—they’re family, confidants, and companions who bring us so much joy and comfort. So when they’re gone, the emptiness can feel overwhelming. While there’s no perfect way to grieve, there are some gentle ways to ease the pain. Here are a few tips to help you find comfort and healing after losing a beloved pet.
1. Let Yourself Feel Everything
Grief is messy and emotional, and it’s totally normal to feel it all—the sadness, the anger, the guilt. Sometimes you might feel okay, and other times, a wave of grief just hits out of nowhere. Allow yourself to feel it without any judgment whatsoever. This is a huge loss, and you have every right to grieve deeply. Letting yourself experience the emotions is the first step toward healing.
2. Lean on Friends and Family
Talking about your pet with people who understand can be incredibly healing. Not everyone will get how much your pet means to you, but there are always those who do. Whether it’s sharing funny stories or just reminiscing about their little quirks, talking about it with friends and family can help you feel less alone. Sometimes, the best comfort is just knowing someone else understands.
3. Create a Small Memorial
Honoring your pet with a small ritual or memorial can bring a sense of closure. This doesn’t have to be anything elaborate—maybe lighting a candle, planting a flower in their memory, or framing a favorite photo. These little acts allow you to remember them in a special way, giving you a chance to say goodbye on your own terms while keeping their memory close.
4. Give Yourself All the Time You Need
There’s no set timeline for grief. Some days will feel okay, and others may hit you harder than you were expecting. Be gentle with yourself and don’t rush the process. Grief doesn’t operate on a schedule, so it’s perfectly okay if you’re still mourning a month, six months, or even a year later. Give yourself as much time as you need—your heart will heal at its own pace.
5. Remember the Happy Times
When the sadness feels heavy, try reflecting on the good memories. Think about the moments that made you smile, the funny things they did, and the way they loved you unconditionally. You could even look through pictures and videos of your pet to fully reminisce. These memories can be incredibly comforting and may help shift the focus from the pain of losing them to the joy of having known them. That love and joy are yours to hold onto forever.
6. Don’t Forget to Take Care of Yourself
Grieving can take a toll on your body and mind, so it’s important to be kind to yourself. Make sure you’re getting enough rest, eating well, and moving around a bit, even if it’s just a short walk. Taking care of yourself doesn’t mean you’re forgetting your pet—it just means you’re giving yourself the strength to get through this difficult time.
7. Connect with Others Who Understand
If you’re feeling isolated in your grief, it can help to reach out to others who’ve experienced the same loss. Pet loss support groups, whether online or in person, can offer understanding and comfort. Talking to people who truly “get it” can make a world of difference, helping you feel less alone and more validated in your feelings.
8. Try a Creative Outlet
Expressing yourself through creativity can be incredibly therapeutic. Whether it’s writing, painting, or creating a scrapbook, a creative outlet allows you to process your emotions in a different way. Making something in your pet’s memory can be a beautiful tribute, and it gives you a chance to pour your feelings into something meaningful and lasting.
9. Embrace Your Pet’s Legacy
Your pet likely left a mark on you in ways you might not even realize. Maybe they taught you patience, made you laugh, or got you through some tough times in life. Think about the lessons they left behind and how they changed your life. Embracing their legacy is a way to honor them, recognizing that they’ll always be a part of you.
10. Keep a Few Keepsakes
If it makes you feel better, you might consider keeping a few special items that remind you of your pet—a collar, a favorite toy, or a photo on your nightstand. These small mementos can help you feel close to them, even though they’re no longer here. Holding onto these reminders can offer a gentle way to keep their memory alive.
11. Allow Yourself to Laugh
Yes, you can absolutely find joy in your memories. Sometimes remembering the funny things they did—the mischief, the quirks, the little looks they’d give you—can bring a smile, even in the heavy waves of sadness. Laughing doesn’t mean you’re over your grief; it just means you’re cherishing the happy memories. Those little moments are yours forever, and they’re worth smiling about.
12. Write Down What You’re Feeling
Journaling or writing a letter to your pet can help you process everything you’re feeling. You could write down memories, think about how much they meant to you, or even just say goodbye. Putting your thoughts on paper is a hugely underrated way to release some of the sadness you’re feeling. Though it might not seem it at first, doing this is the first step to helping you feel a little lighter in the process.
13. Let Yourself Grieve Your Own Way
Everyone grieves differently, and that’s completely okay. Some people need to talk about their pet constantly whereas others may prefer quiet reflection. However you choose to grieve is valid—this is your journey, and it’s about what feels right for you. Honor your own process, and don’t worry about what anyone else might think.
14. Seek Help if You Need It
Sometimes, grief can feel too overwhelming to handle on your own, and that’s okay. Reaching out to a therapist, especially one who understands pet loss, can provide a safe space to work through the sadness. There’s no shame in asking for support—sometimes, just having someone to talk to can be incredibly healing.
15. Remember the Love Is Always There
Even though your pet is no longer with you, the love you shared will always be a part of you. That bond is something that distance or time can’t erase. Hold onto that love, and let it bring you comfort in the moments you miss them most. They’re still with you in spirit and in the many ways they’ve left a mark on your heart.