Updated: 03/20/2024
The impact of losing a pet is significant, and at times it might even be too much to bear. When we have to make decisions on our pet’s behalf, we could question if we made the proper choice. We may feel out of control or even mad as a result of the emotional effect of loss and absence. For many, their pets are part of the family, and it is common to cry uncontrollably when losing a dog.
The loss of a pet is emotionally similar to the loss of a human in our lives. Our bodies go through a variety of grieving stages as we go through our loss. Although we can never completely “get over” a loss, we can surely move on. This article explains why it’s okay to mourn after the death of a pet and to express our feelings.
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My Dog Died and I Can’t Stop Crying About It
Many people believe that losing a pet isn’t a big deal, but the emotional toll may be significant. I remember vividly when my dog died. I spent 12 years with my dog, who I adored dearly. My life felt so empty for so long. I found it hard to get out of bed.
I’m assuming you’re dealing with something similar because you’re on this page. Maybe you recently lost your cat, dog, or guinea pig. There is a void left in our life after losing a pet. Also if you have decided to euthanize your furry friend, the anguish and loss may be deeper. It can take a long time to get over the loss of an animal.
During the mourning process, crying is normal. Laughing is simply out of the question. In order to move on, we must give ourselves permission to mourn the loss of our pets. You may never fully recover from your loss, but you can and will find happiness again.
Coping with the Grief and Loss of Your Dog or Cat
The physical and psychological toll of grieving affects every aspect of our existence. Physically, psychologically, emotionally, spiritually, and even financially are all impacted. Most of all, when our pets pass, we feel the instant absence in our lives. Some pet owners may also feel guilty for putting their pet to sleep.
We receive unwavering affection and acceptance from our pets. Even though we were only gone for a short while, they nevertheless meet us at the entrance and act as if we are superstars. In exchange for everything they provide for us, we care for our pets by giving them food, a cozy place to live, and a lot of love.
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Why Crying After Losing a Pet is a Normal Part of the Process
It seems natural that we would feel sad after the passing of a companion animal. We modify our everyday schedules to accommodate their demands. For instance, even before we eat, we frequently feed the dog, play with the cat, or go out to the field to feed our horses hay.
Crying when our pet died allows us to release internal energy. Grief never fits neatly into a box, so each traumatic event has an impact and might affect how we deal with it in the future. That might result in a far more unpleasant grieving experience down the road if we suppress our emotions and try to hold back our tears.
We often feel broken after losing an animal, and part of the grieving process is putting ourselves back together. The problem is that the pieces never fit back together in the same manner most of the time.
We may give our body the chance to work on lowering stress levels by crying through our discomfort. As a result, you may start to reintegrate and get over your sense of grief while still addressing the passing of your old pet. Crying uncontrollably for a prolonged period of time is typical during the acute phase of dying or just after a loss. This is due to the fact that our bodies are struggling to cope with the shock of loss and lessen the intense emotional experience we are having.
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Understanding the Pet Grieving Process
If we don’t give ourselves a chance to let our emotions out, our bodies will try to do it for us. To maintain homeostasis, the body regulates itself continuously. For instance, we shiver when we are too cold in an effort to warm up and sweat when we are too hot in an effort to cool down.
Our bodies go through a lot of emotional ups and downs while we mourn the loss of a pet. We usually cry as an outlet to restore our equilibrium and work through our loss when we need to let out our feelings. Every moment we let go of our emotions, our bodies begin to heal.
The endocrine system causes tears to be generated when we experience emotional pain. Our systems respond chemically to these tears in order to produce a cocktail that lessens pain and makes us feel happy. As a result, in an effort to lessen stress, our hormones enable the production of leucine-enkephalin, which cleanses the body of impurities. Once more, this is the body’s attempt to preserve emotional balance.
How to Stop Crying After Losing a Pet
Several techniques are needed to deal with grief after losing a pet. It’s crucial to give oneself permission to mourn. Grieving for a cherished pet doesn’t have a prescribed time frame or process. You will create more issues if you impose these fictitious mourning norms.
Instead, think about these recommendations:
- Normalize sorrow. You may see your sorrow and tears as a manifestation of your love and bond with your pet.
- Understand there are no rules. Grief has no set guidelines, and there is definitely no timetable.
- Be on the lookout for negative feelings, assumptions, and thoughts. Saying to yourself that your pain is inappropriate (or other negative thoughts) will only make your grieving last longer and become more difficult. Once a loved one passes away, many individuals experience remorse. But, if this continues or even becomes extreme, it might constitute a concern.
- Become involved with animals. Grief, as already established, is personal. Spending time with other animals, such as walking someone else’s dog or volunteering at an animal shelter, can be calming for some individuals.
Seeking Support
Losing a pet can be a deeply emotional experience, and many pet owners find it difficult to cope with the grief and loss that comes with it. It’s natural to grieve the loss of your pet, to feel the pain of their absence, and to struggle with moving forward. During this time, it can be helpful to seek support from others who have also experienced the loss of a pet.
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Finding Comfort in the Support of Other Pet Owners
When losing your pet, the death of your dog, or the passing of your cat, the grief that follows can be deep and profound. Unfortunately, people may not always understand the emotional connection we have with our animal companions. It’s common for individuals to try to make you feel better by suggesting that you get another pet or dismiss the loss entirely by saying things like, “it’s just an animal. Just get another dog,” or “be strong.” However, these kinds of comments can leave the grieving person feeling “disenfranchised” and denied the validity of their loss.
It’s crucial to acknowledge the grief that comes with the loss of a pet, and friends and family should express their condolences by saying things like, “I’m sorry for your loss.” While nothing can bring back the pet, taking the time to help you cope and allowing you to grieve in your way can be helpful in the healing process. It’s okay to feel the pain of the loss of a pet, and with time, the grief will become more manageable.
A lot of people try to hide their sadness. It could be difficult for friends and relatives to understand your grief. If so, look for those who can relate to your position (e.g., other pet owners, pet bereavement support group).
One of the best ways to find support is by connecting with other pet owners who have gone through similar experiences. Pet loss support groups can be a great resource, offering a safe and understanding space to share your thoughts and feelings.
When to Seek Professional Help
Do not be afraid to seek professional assistance if you are still unable to stop crying and believe that your grieving is becoming harmful. Yet, because everyone experiences grief differently and over varying lengths of time, it can be difficult to determine when it is appropriate to get support. If any of the following hold true, I advise talking to a professional: sudden weight loss, total lack of energy, or depressive thoughts.
Believe it or not, therapists are accustomed to helping people deal with the loss of their pets. Even though it can be hard to talk to a therapist at first, don’t hesitate to find a qualified therapist on a platform like BetterHelp, should you need one.
Emotional Impact of Pet Loss
Often, losing a dog means losing someone who completely understands you. Someone who cares about you enough to put up with whatever you’re doing and offer support when you need it. Dogs may learn to identify people and can comprehend human emotional states only from facial expressions, according to research. Also, according to scientific research, dogs are able to comprehend human intentions, make an effort to assist their owners, and learn to avoid people who don’t treat them properly or assist them when they need it. In essence, you also lose your backup if you lose your dog.
Why Losing a Pet Can Feel Like Losing a Human Loved One
The death of a cherished dog might seem insurmountable. In fact, it’s possible for that loss to occasionally feel as painful as losing a human friend or relative. That is not only anecdotal: According to research, losing a dog is typically equal to losing a loved one, both emotionally and practically. Symptoms of acute sadness following the loss of a pet may continue from one to two months, with signs of grieving lingering for up to a full year.
Read: My husband died and I want him back.
Coping with Grief and Loss After Losing a Pet
Why do people mourn their dogs with such intense emotion? Dogs are so much more than just pets, after all. The loss of a dog is particularly upsetting because it results in the loss of a companion and a small life for whom we were responsible. There’s a good reason why dogs make the best emotional support animals.
Furthermore, many people view dogs as their main companions, offering protection and comfort. According to research, dogs encourage individuals to leave their houses, build trust among neighbors, and participate more in civic activities and social concerns. They also help people get out of their houses. Science has shown that dogs work as a “social lubricant,” encouraging discussion and engagement between strangers. Losing a dog means giving up that reason to go for a stroll in the park, that reason to stop and talk to a stranger on the street, and that simple topic of discussion as well.
Honoring Your Pet’s Memory
Losing a pet is usually a heartbreaking experience, and it’s important to honor your beloved animal’s memory after its passing. There are many ways to do this, from creating a special memorial to volunteering at an animal shelter in their honor. Whatever you choose, take the time to reflect on the joy and companionship that your pet brought into your life. While you may never fully get over the loss of your beloved pet, taking steps to remember and celebrate their life can help you find some measure of comfort.
How to Honor Your Pet’s Life
Consider creating a memorial or engaging in activities that celebrate your pet’s life. When you’re ready, you may even consider getting a new pet to help ease the loss of your beloved animal. Remember, every pet is unique, and the love and joy they bring into our lives are truly special.
The Importance of Closure After Losing a Pet
In order to end the unpleasant emotions that come from the loss of a pet, we strive for closure by learning the reasons why it occurred. By doing this, it seems that we are creating a mental jigsaw of what has transpired while analyzing how each piece fits into the bigger picture. When we are confident that the jigsaw has been put together to our satisfaction, that the solutions have been found, and it is, therefore, possible to go on, we are said to have attained closure.
Final Words
In conclusion, the loss of a beloved furry friend can be one of the most challenging experiences that anyone can go through. When your pet died and you can’t stop crying, it’s essential to acknowledge the emotional impact of losing a family member. The pain and grief may be overwhelming, but it’s okay to take time to grieve and put your pet to rest in a way that feels right for you.
Remember, losing a pet is not something you should go through alone. Reach out to friends and family members who loved your pet and share memories of the time you spent together. Take comfort in knowing that pet loss comes with a unique set of challenges, but it’s also a universal experience that many people have gone through and can relate to.
Finally, find comfort in the thought that your pet knew how much you loved them and that their memory will continue to reside in your heart. As you navigate the grieving process, allow yourself to feel your emotions and be kind to yourself. Your dog has died, but the love and joy it brought to your life will never be forgotten.
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