Companionship
The pets we keep are very special to us. There are many different ways that
animals contribute to our lives. Pets can bring us immeasurable rewards in the form of companionship, protection, relaxation,
exercise… to name but a few. They may be a link with events or people in our lives and the bond that we form with them
may be very strong.
Euthanasia…….a big decision
We are responsible for our pet during its lifetime, and we are also responsible
during times of illness and death. It is natural to feel guilty when considering euthanasia. Sometimes we may feel angry that
our pet cannot be saved and often think…."If only I had done…. Things could have been different." It is important
to discuss your concerns with the vet, who will be able to advise and guide you towards the correct decision. This should
reassure you that the decision you have made, whether due to your pet being terminally ill, critically injured or aggressive,
has been the most appropriate one at the time.
Grief
Pets are usually considered to be a part of the family or an integral part or
our lives and we may mourn at their death as if we have lost a human friend. The depth of emotion felt is often unexpected,
but when you consider the friendship that may have been lost, the feelings of grief are not surprising.
Each of us experiences the grieving process in a unique way. Often the first
reaction is disbelief. It may be hard to accept that our pet is no longer with us. The house feels so empty and it is difficult
to come to terms with the fact that our pet is not coming back. The feelings of loss may be particularly deep if you have
depended on your pet for emotional support. You may feel very sad and low for a long time. Sometimes the loneliness is magnified
by a lack of understanding from others. Some people may lose confidence and feel anxious about other pets that are in their
care. It helps to share your feels with a friend, a member of the veterinary staff or someone else who has had a similar experience.
It is helpful to realise that your reaction to losing your pet is a normal response and these emotions can be considered a
tribute to what your pet has meant to you.
The future…..
After a while you will feel more able to direct your energies towards the future.
Some people will soon want to fill the gap left by the loss of their pet. Other people may not be ready to get another pet
for some time and may feel as if they are betraying their dead pet by investing love in another one. This is a normal but
transient feeling. Only you will be able to decide when you are ready to introduce a new pet into the household. We should
understand that a new pet does not replace the pet that has been lost but brings into the home a new pet presence that
fills the emptiness.
Continued on Next Page
