Pet Loss Support & Healing for Grieving Pets

1. Understanding Pet Loss Counselling

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• What is pet loss counselling?

Pet loss counselling is a specialised form of support aimed at helping individuals manage their emotional pain and grief associated with the loss of a beloved pet. It provides a safe space to express feelings, process grief, find meaning in loss, and find ways to honour and remember your pet.

 

• Why should I consider pet loss counselling?

Losing a pet can be an intensely emotional experience. Pet loss counselling offers professional support to help navigate the grieving journey, reduce feelings of isolation, and provide coping strategies to manage grief in a healthy and constructive way.

 

• How long does the grieving process last?

Grieving is a highly personal experience and varies from person to person. There is no fixed timeline for grief. It's important to allow yourself to grieve at your own pace and seek support when needed.

 

• What can I expect during a pet loss counselling session?

During a session, you'll have the opportunity to talk about your pet, share your feelings, and receive empathetic support – I will listen. Counselling may include discussions on coping mechanisms, and strategies to help you move forward, and find meaning whilst honouring your pet's memory.

 

• Can I receive counselling if I'm struggling with anticipatory grief?

Yes, anticipatory grief, which occurs when a pet is nearing the end of their life, can be just as challenging as grieving after a loss. Counselling can provide support and guidance during this difficult time, helping you prepare emotionally and make the most of your remaining time with your pet.

 

• Are there group counselling options available?

Yes, group counselling sessions are often available and can be beneficial as they allow you to connect with others who are experiencing similar feelings of loss. Sharing your experiences and listening to others can offer comfort and a sense of community. Please reach out to Kirstey.

 

• How do I know if pet loss counselling is right for me?

If you are feeling overwhelmed by grief, struggling to cope with the loss, or finding it difficult to move forward, pet loss counselling may be helpful. It's a personal decision, and seeking support is a sign of strength and self-care.

 

• How do I schedule a counselling session?

To schedule a session, please Kirstey on 07943765736 or kirstey.lee@outlook.com or click below. Kirstey will try to be as flexible as possible for appointment times.

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2. The Grieving Process

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• How long does the grieving process last?

Grieving is a highly personal experience and varies greatly from person to person. There is no set timeline for grief; it can last weeks, months, or even years. It’s important to allow yourself to grieve at your own pace and seek support when needed.

 

• What are the signs of grief in pets?

Pets can experience grief too, and they may show signs such as changes in appetite, lethargy, increased vocalisations, clinginess, or changes in behaviour. Providing extra comfort, maintaining routines, and being patient can help support your grieving pet. Self-selection and Flower essences can be of immense help too. Reach out to Kirstey who can help your grieving pet.

 

• What should I do if I feel guilty about my pet's passing?

Feelings of guilt are common, especially if you had to make difficult decisions about your pet's care. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and understand that they are a natural part of the grieving process. Counselling can help you process these emotions and find peace.

 

• What if I feel like my grief is never-ending?

If you feel like your grief is never-ending, it might be helpful to seek additional support from a counsellor or a support group. Prolonged grief can be challenging, and professional support can offer strategies to help you navigate and manage your emotions.

 

 

 

3. Coping Mechanisms and Support

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• Can I attend counselling if I'm struggling with anticipatory grief?

Yes, you can attend counselling if you're struggling with anticipatory grief. Anticipatory grief occurs when you know a pet's death is imminent and are already grieving their loss. Counselling can provide support, guidance, and coping strategies to help you navigate this emotionally challenging time.

 

• How can I help my children cope with the loss of a pet?

Helping children cope with the loss of a pet involves providing age-appropriate explanations, encouraging them to express their feelings, and offering reassurance. Engaging in activities like drawing, storytelling, or creating a memory box can help children process their grief and remember their pet. It is important not to use euphemisms like ‘put to sleep’ or ‘passed away’. Use relevant wording such as end of life, or death and dying. You do not have to go into details but being honest will help long term. Understand that children may ask a lot of questions.  

 

• What should I do if I can't stop crying over my pet's death?

If you find yourself unable to stop crying over your pet's death, it's important to acknowledge your emotions and allow yourself to grieve. Crying is a natural part of the healing process. Seeking support from friends, family, or a counsellor can provide comfort and help you manage your grief.

 

• What if I cannot cry over the loss of my pet?

Not being able to cry can leave a person feeling guilty and as if they are being rude or disrespectful to their pet in death. Know that this is okay, and in time the tears and emotions may flow—it can take weeks or months for this, and sometimes you may not ever cry. This is fine, everyone grieves in different ways. Not everyone expresses their emotions through crying. If you find yourself unable to cry over the loss of your pet, it doesn't mean you loved them any less or that your grief is any less significant. People cope with loss in various ways, and it's important to be kind to yourself and allow your emotions to manifest in their own time. It definitely does not mean that you loved your pet any less; it is the way you grieve which is unique to you.

 

• What if I have questions or need support outside of counselling sessions?

If you have questions or need support outside of counselling sessions, Kirstey will be on hand to help via WhatsApp or email. Also you can consider reaching out to other pet loss support groups, or online forums. These resources can provide additional support, answer your questions, and connect you with others who understand what you're going through.

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4. Memorialising Your Pet

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• How can I honour the memory of my pet?

Honouring the memory of your pet can be a deeply personal and meaningful process. There are numerous ways to memorialise your pet. Consider creating a memorial, such as a photo album, painting, or a scrapbook filled with your favourite memories and photos. Engaging in activities that your pet loved or donating to an animal charity in their name are also wonderful ways to honour their memory. You might plant a tree or flower in their favourite spot, create a piece of custom jewellery using their ashes, or have a portrait painted of them. Some people choose to create a memory box filled with their pet's belongings, like their collar, toys, and photographs, or have a tattoo designed and completed with some of their pet's ashes.

 

• Commemorating special dates and rituals

Commemorating special dates related to your pet, such as their birthday or the anniversary of their passing, can help keep their memory alive. You could light a candle, hold a small gathering with close friends and family to share stories, or engage in one of your pet's favourite activities. Creating a ritual, like visiting a favourite walking spot or making a donation in their honour, can also be comforting. Rituals and ceremonies can provide closure and a way to honour your pet's life. Some ideas include holding a small ceremony in a place that was special to your pet, writing a farewell letter and burying it with them, or creating a digital slideshow of memories to share with loved ones. You might also consider holding a memorial service where friends and family can come together to celebrate your pet's life.

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6. Practical Considerations

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• Can pet loss counselling help me decide if it's time to euthanise my pet?

Yes, pet loss counselling can provide support and guidance when facing the difficult decision of euthanasia. A counsellor can help you process your emotions, explore your options, and make a compassionate and informed decision that prioritises your pet's well-being and quality of life. Pet loss counselling cannot make the difficult decision for you.

 

• Can I bring my pet's belongings to a counselling session?

Absolutely. Bringing your pet's belongings, such as photos, a favourite toy, or their collar, can be a comforting way to honour their memory during a counselling session. These items can help you share stories and express your feelings more fully, making the session more personal and meaningful.

 

• What if I feel ready to adopt a new pet?

Feeling ready to adopt a new pet is a personal decision that varies for everyone. Counselling can help you explore your feelings and ensure you’re making this decision for the right reasons. It’s important to honour your grief and remember your late pet while being open to welcoming a new companion into your life. Ensure that all the household is ready and this includes other pets at home.

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