When Goodbye is the Kindest Choice

When Goodbye is the Kindest Choice

That Monday morning was one I will never forget. I said goodbye to my little dog Rosie. She was the fourth dog who I had lost, yet the pain felt just as raw.

Choosing to euthanise your fur baby after many years together was heart wrenching.

If you have had to make that difficult decision to euthanise your pet you might feel guilty, desperately upset, and keep replaying those final moments. You might question yourself. Was it the right time? Could you have tried another vet, another medication or another way to prolong your relationship?

But in reality, you made a compassionate decision to end that suffering.

Pet grief reflects that deep bond you shared. Whether your companion was a dog, cat or a smaller or exotic pet you loved them and losing them doesn't feel real at first. Pet grief plays with your emotions. It's overwhelming, sad, stressful and frustrating,

When they are gone life feels different. Your routines have changed. The house seems quieter. You might even feel lonely. This is a normal grief response. For many people, the pain is made harder because others do not fully understand it. You maybe expected to carry on as normal, even though your loss feels profound.

I remember one of my clients saying: '…but Linda, my family keep saying that they are going to buy me a puppy, but I don't want one as I'm still in love with my old dog, Ben.'

But there is hope. Grief takes time. There is no replacement for love. With the right support things can feel more manageable.

You will always remember your pet, but you can begin to focus on the life you shared rather than the final goodbye.

I'm Linda, a specialist pet grief counsellor. Visit my website and book a complimentary consultation online to find out how I can help you.
https://www.awakenthechange.com/counselling/counselling-for-pet-loss/

I also have a book called 'Managing Pet Grief'. Available on Amazon.

Linda Witchell
Counsellor, hypnotherapist, coach.
www.awakenthechange.com