If there is something pet lovers are scared about, that is losing them. After all the years they care and love them, they are surely not just any animal and now part of the family, and to lose them will certainly hurt. It is nothing anyone can be prepared for. It will hurt no matter what.

But whether you like it or not, it will happen. It could be unexpected or it could be not, but it will not lessen the pain you will feel.

Now that you know it is hard, how can someone cope with it?

1. Grieve

It is okay to let go and grief. It is a natural feeling if you lost someone. It will be more dangerous if you have it cooped up inside and burst later on. So, you will have to allow it. People experience and have different ways to deal with, and however, yours will do not matter. What matters is that you understand it is part of the process. But keep in mind that it might take longer and depends on a person.

2. Routine

While you are grieving, one of the most important aspects you can do is to establish a routine. That way, you would have your mind on something else. It does not matter if it is old or new. The most important thing you can do for yourself is taking care of yourself. Most people who are in grief loss the appetite to do things like eating or sleeping or doing work which will have bad effects on health. Also, doing the best for your body will help boost your mood.

3. Memorial

Grieving and moving on does not mean forgetting your pet. Even if they are gone, you know that you will always have the memories spent together. You can have a memorial service for them and invite your friends and family who will be there to comfort you. That way, it will help you to bring up wonderful memories with them and will also help with your process of moving on. You can also immortalize them by having something like a plant, statue, or even planting a tree as a symbol for them. Another good way is to donate to a shelter or charity in their name. 

4. Support

People have different ways of grief and some would want to be alone. It is okay but as mentioned before, it is bad to have it cooped up, and a way to release it is by talking. If you know some friends or family that will understand you, go ahead and have them by your side, and they will surely listen. They will surely help you especially if they experienced it themselves. They already understand the process and will be able to share it with you. Another way is going to a support group. Your vet or local shelters will surely know about one. You can also go to a therapist. At times grief will be too much and asking for professional help will truly be helpful.