What to Say (& Not Say) to Someone Who Lost a Pet
As too many of us know, the death of a pet is devastating. Our pets are more than just animals; they are integral parts of our families, they are our confidants, our best friends, and our biggest fans. So when they pass, the feelings of grief we experience are very similar to the feelings we experience when we lose a person that was important to usanger, denial, depression
they are all part of the healing process through which we eventually reach acceptance.
Pet loss is a delicate topic, and even if youve been through it yourself, its difficult to know what to say when someone you know experiences the death of a pet. Pet advice expert Steven May understands this, and in a recent essay titled What to Say, And What Not to Say, Following the Passing of a Pet, he offers some great insight on what to do.
Throughout my long career working with both pets and [pet parents] Ive assisted in more than 3,000 euthanasias and have been present in countess situations where a pet has passed due to natural or unnatural causes. And no matter how many times I go through the process it is never easy. The loss of a pet hurts. They remind us of milestones in our lives and often represent the true meaning of unconditional love
So what do we say to a person who has lost a pet? And, just as importantly, what do we not say?
Say This
Your pet was so lucky to have you.
During times of grief many people look inward and ask themselves if there was anything else they could have done differently. Reminding someone of what a wonderful pet parent they were, and that their pet enjoyed the best life possible, can help to alleviate any guilt a pet [parent] may be feeling.
Dont Say This
When are you getting another pet?
This implies that a pet is like a piece of furnitureif it breaks or gets old you just throw it out and get a new one. Nothing could be further from the truth. Our pets provide the kind of emotional connection that, for some, can resonate deeper than what they feel with human beings. Pets demand that we be selfless and in return we are rewarded with unconditional love. Thats not something that can be erased immediately.
http://banoosh.com/blog/2013/07/23/what-to-say-not-say-to-someone-who-lost-a-pet/