Pet Loss: Supporting Your Child

​Are you not sure how to answer your child’s questions about the death of your family pet? Concerned about how to support them in the grief? Many parents can be faced with coping with their own grief of the loss of a pet and supporting the grief of their child(ren). It is important to take care of yourself in the grief process in order to be able to be their for your child(ren) as well. Below are some tips to consider in supporting your child:

1. Addressing the questions. Children typically have a lot of questions about what happens after death, this would be informed by your family and you can find several resources including this document. The document also speaks to how to help your child understand the euthanization process.
2. Expect regression. It is normal for kids to regress with losses. Regression may be a couple days or a couple weeks. It is important to be as patient with your child as you can, and to allow space for any feelings that may arise.
3. Grief in layers. Everyone grieves differently, some may have a hard time leading up to saying goodbye and others may feel the grief more after their pet has died. For others if may be when they are reminded of their pet, or when their pet is not there for the next birthday or holiday celebration.
4. Allow time. Some families are eager to get another pet after the loss of their pet. It is important to give time to grieve and for kids to see something as special as the family pet is not easily replaced.
5. Find a way to keep your pets memory alive. Your child may want to create something special in memory of your pet. This could be a drawing that is framed, printed pictures in a photo frame, or a special box with keepsake items.
6. Additional support when needed. Reach out to supportive friends or family who have lost a pet. There is also a 24/7 Pet Compassion Careline at 1-855-245-8214. 

If you need additional support reach out to me I am Nicole Levy and I would be happy to help. Book an initial consult directly though  https://oab.owlpractice.ca/mindfulhealingjourney/booking