How do you stop feeling guilty after losing a pet?

When a pet dies, you want help… fast!

1. Understand the feelings you’re going through — and find ways to ease the pain.
2. “Say good-bye” with memorials, tributes and other coping strategies.
3. Help your children and other family members deal with their grief.
4. Deal with people who “just don’t understand”

Why does it hurt so bad losing a pet?

Psychologist Julie Axelrod has pointed out that the loss of a dog is so painful because owners aren’t just losing the pet. It could mean the loss of a source of unconditional love, a primary companion who provides security and comfort, and maybe even a protégé that’s been mentored like a child.

How do you deal with the guilt of killing your pet?

Balance your real guilt with the real ways you loved your pet. You took good care of your dog or cat in many ways; don’t wave that away. Dealing with guilt when you caused your pet’s death isn’t just about grieving; it’s about cherishing the best parts of your life with your dog or cat.

Is it possible to feel guilty for the loss of pets?

When it comes to the loss of a pet, there really doesn’t seem to be a circumstance where we’re immune to guilt. If a beloved pet goes missing or dies suddenly or traumatically, we can tear ourselves apart with guilt for not having foreseen what would happen. Euthanasia is fraught with guilt too. Was it too soon?

How do I cope with the loss of a pet?

Talk about your feelings with a trusted friend or family member; someone with some perspective on the situation. Try to redirect the feelings of inadequacy or wrongdoing to the times that you shared with your pet in good health; the times that you provided for your pet and took great care of your pet.

Is pet loss guilt keeping you up at night?

Pet loss guilt is particularly present and overwhelming in the early days following a bereavement. It can haunt us, keep us awake at night, and turn every day into a living hell that taints the memories of our lost pet.