THE VETERINARY WELLNESS CENTRE

Pets and horses play a very special part in our lives. They provide unconditional love, joy, loyalty, acceptance, friendship, comfort and companionship sometimes over many years. Many of us love our animals the same way they do any other family member, so it is not surprising that the loss of a pet can invoke a range of intense emotions. This is not something to be embarrassed about – it is perfectly natural and appropriate.

You may experience emotions around losing a pet or horse, including denial, guilt, depression, anger, and confusion. There is no set pattern to grief – it is ultimately an individual experience that depends on many factors, including your unique personality, the circumstances surrounding your pet’s death and the relationship you had with your animal companion.

The first and most important step in coping with the emotions surrounding pet loss is acknowledging and discussing them rather than denying or repressing them; attempts to suppress feelings of grief can sometimes prolong the healing process. Your grief demonstrates how much you loved your pet or horse and, in many ways, is something to embrace and work through rather than fear or ignore.

Miriam has over a decade of experience assisting grieving owners and has lived through the process herself. As someone who understands the timeline of grief, and the profound loss experienced by you and your family, she can support you with kind, caring professional expertise.

Bereavement counselling sessions can be one-to-one or include the whole family. They can happen virtually via Zoom (or an alternative platform) if you prefer. Otherwise, sessions will be in your own home, with the benefit of some herbal support (teas and aromatherapy) for the grieving humans and animals in the household. If you would like this support, please book here.

After losing your animal companion, allow yourself the time and space to grieve and cry as much as you want to. Try to avoid spiralling into a state where preoccupation with your grief worsens your depression, as this makes it increasingly difficult to break out of the vicious circle. Try to make time for healthy distractions such as your family, friends, work and other activities. This will help you cope with your grief and maintain a sense of reality and perspective. Take as much care of yourself as you can by resting and eating adequately (eat whatever food brings you comfort!). Don’t be embarrassed about seeking support from family and friends in your time of grief. Remember that some people will be more able to understand the love you shared with your pet or horse than others; that is not to say that these latter people care any less for you, just that they may not be ‘animal people’ and may not be able to grasp the attachment you shared fully.

There is no set timeline for grief, and you may find yourself needing support immediately after your loss or a long time afterwards. These feelings of loss and grief don’t only occur after the death of an animal companion, but also if they go missing or have to be rehomed due to personal circumstances. You may experience grief and benefit from support in these situations, too. Whatever you need, Miriam at Botanical Veterinary Care will be here for you.