Everyone mourns the loss of a loved animal in a different way. For many people, the grieving process is unexpectedly painful and long lasting. Many pet owners find the prospect of grieving an animal even more challenging than grieving the loss of another person. After many years in the company of a special animal, the idea of sharing your home with another pet can be difficult to think of. How do you know when you are ready to take this important step?
Identify your hesitation
Before you decide whether or not to adopt a new pet, try to get to the heart of your doubts. What exactly is stopping you? Why precisely do you feel reluctant? Here are some of the reasons pet owners are hesitant to bring a new animal home:
- They feel disloyal to the memory of the pet they have lost.
- They do not want to replace the memory of their lost pet with the presence of a new one
- They do not want to reopen to the experience of loss.
- They want to feel fully prepared to care for a new animal.
- They are not sure that they can find an animal with which they are compatible.
- They are concerned about the compatibility of a new animal and other pets already in the home.
All these feelings are very natural and should even be expected. Choosing to bring home a new animal is a complex decision and should not be taken lightly. At the same time, it is important to identify what your concerns really are. If you wish, you can take steps to resolve these concerns with the help of an understanding friend or family member.
Keep animals in your life
People who have lost a pet may wish they had animals in their lives but still don’t feel the responsibility of having one in their home. If you miss the company of a special animal, you might consider spending time with four-legged friends who haven’t found a forever home yet. Animal shelters, rescue groups, and other volunteer agencies are always in need of help. Just a few hours a week can go a long way in giving animals the care, affection and socialization they need to stay happy and healthy. Even if you personally don’t feel like caring for one full-time, all pet owners have the skills and love to help animals waiting for their forever homes. This small effort can be a great source of emotional comfort.
Participating in donation drives is another way to give help and support to animals. Humanitarian groups often run supply drives during the holidays, although they may need donations throughout the year. Consider donating a few dollars, a few bags of pet food, hygiene items, or even old towels and blankets. You can also talk to a shelter worker to find out what supplies they need in particular.
Pet parents have a lot of love to give, but after losing a special animal, the thought of loving another can seem very painful. Still, there are ways to keep animals in your life until you’re ready to share your home again.
