Pet Loss
Pet Loss grief is a very real thing. Sometimes we find we can grieve the loss of a pet more than a friend or family member. There is a bond between humans and animals that is difficult to measure sometimes. Often a cat or dog can be part of the family right through the early years of children. Some children don't know what it's like to live without that cat or dog around. When they have passed away it might be the first time your child has even experienced the emotion of loss.
Adults are just as susceptible to deep sadness and despair from having their pet pass away. It's a natural reaction and we shouldn't feel weak or silly from shedding many tears. Our pets can be our children and friends and having them no longer around can make us feel alone and vulnerable.
Asking for help to navigate this emotional time is a good idea and if you feel you can't talk to other family or friends, then a professional psychologist might be the answer. Whether it's advice you need or just an ear to listen. You may even find some solice from reading our poems.
I found through Google Dr Michael O'Donoghue's searchable directory of pet loss psychologists and recommend either contacting him or one of his listed colleagues.