Losing your pet — a cherished companion and part of your family — can be devastating. When it happens during end of year holidays, the loss can feel especially brutal, disabling families from functioning normally.
Here are some tips on navigating grief when your dog has died.
Recognize That This Year Is Different
Take down time to grieve. This loss can be just as jarring and painful as losing a friend or relative. Acknowledge that and allow yourself time to cry, feel your emotions.
Surround Yourself With People Who Care
The stress of holiday gatherings can be overwhelming. Optimally, your family will take the loss seriously and support you. Not everyone is aware of the profound pain that a dog’s passing can cause. If you add family dysfunction to the mix, the mess thickens. If you feel the need, skip the festivities. No one who genuinely cares, will criticize you for taking time to heal.
Volunteer in a shelter for animals
Volunteering at an animal shelter is a wonderful opportunity for puppy love while also helping, Holiday adoption events are common at shelters since many people give themselves the gift of a new dog during this season. What could be better than finding homes for abandoned pups, to honor the life of your dog that’s recently passed on?
If you’d rather avoid interacting with people at this time, you can feed the dogs or clean kennels instead.
Make a New Custom to Honor Your Dog
Include memories of your dog in celebrations, whether it’s hanging a stocking or ornament in their name; lighting a candle on a Menorah or for Kwanzaa. Even raise a glass for a New Year’s Eve toast. Check out Etsy for suggestions. Honor their existence as treasured members of your home. Start a new tradition.
Let yourself indulge in some pleasures
Some people may feel guilty about enjoying life after losing a dog. It’s acceptable not to cry constantly, especially if you are surrounded by upbeat people. Spend the holidays doing activities you enjoy. Indulge yourself in a little joy this holiday season. Above all, keep in mind the good times you shared with your dog. Even when they aren’t physically present, their spirit lives on in you.
Source: Dog Time
