Does it get easier after losing a pet?

Some people start to feel better in weeks or months. For others, the grieving process is measured in years. Whatever your grief experience, it’s important to be patient with yourself and allow the process to naturally unfold. Feeling sad, shocked, or lonely is a normal reaction to the loss of a beloved pet.

Can losing a pet cause anxiety?

Such a loss can cause the following symptoms: disturbed sleeping patterns, eating disorders, decreased social activity, job-related difficulties, loss of motivation, stress, self-harm, depression, anxiety, worry, pining, loneliness, guilt pangs, flashbacks and feelings of emptiness [16].

Is it OK to replace a lost pet?

While you may be tempted to replace the pet you lost, it’s best to take some time to think and grieve, one expert says. Losing a much-loved pet is never easy. But even harder for many is being without a four-footed companion.

How long should you wait to get a new pet after loss?

If you do decide to get a new pet in the wake of losing a previous one, it can be hard to know how long to wait before doing so. Some people seek to find a new animal companion within weeks or even just days of losing their prior pet, and for some people, this is the right decision.

What should you do when you lose your pet?

Veterinarian Sheri Morris, DABVP, of Willamette Valley Animal Hospital in Keizer, Ore., offers a few thoughts about welcoming a new furry friend into your life. Woe begone. Finish your grieving first. You can’t simply replace a lost pet. You have to be ready for a new personality.

Can a widow take care of a dog after her husband dies?

Some widows say living alone after their husband’s death is easier when they have a cat or dog to take care of. A pet doesn’t just offer companionship; a dog or even a cat can become the reason to get out of bed and even get out of the house.