Why Does The Death Of A Pet Hurt Like That Of A Family Member?
When our dog or cat dies, we feel as empty as if we had lost a child, a sibling or one of our parents. We experience immense pain that cannot be compared to anything and that is difficult to explain. In this article, we’ll tell you why the death of a pet hurts just like that of a family member.
The pain of our pet’s death
Those who love animals know that there is no greater pain than losing them. Dogs and cats spend many years by our side so that their death is painless. Just the act of thinking that they will someday die, makes your throat ache. However, we have to take into account that sooner or later this will happen and that we need to be prepared.
The connection we experience with pets is so great that we cannot imagine life without them. Nothing will ever be the same, because your love and loyalty were like a balm between our problems.
Unfortunately, the life cycle of these companion animals is much shorter than ours. Therefore, it is natural that we are the ones who will suffer for the death of our pet. According to psychologists, this has a great emotional impact on people, just as it does when a member of our family dies. Why? Because the dog or cat is also part of this intimate core.
In addition, as a University of Hawaii study indicates, the pain caused by a pet’s death is not only intense and profound, but it also lasts for a long time. One in three people consulted said they suffered at least six months after the loss.
The death of a pet, the end of a more than special relationship
Companion animals offer us their love, support, and loyalty (in many cases, more than we get from other people). Because of this, when they die, get lost, or are stolen, we experience what scientists call “the end of a special relationship.”
The pain of losing a pet is often not understood by those who do not have a dog or cat. They find it strange that someone cries heartlessly for an animal, if what dies is a dog or a feline, they despise the feelings.
As more and more couples and families adopt a pet and turn it into an extra member of the house, it is common for funerals and burials to be organized as if it were one person. There are even special cemeteries for pets.
How to get over the death of a pet
It doesn’t matter if your friends or family don’t understand you or say you’re overreacting because you feel sad about the death of a pet. If your dog or cat has died, you must express your sadness and face the loss. Take as much time as you need to get through this horrible moment.
While you don’t have to shed thousands of tears, don’t hold them back. Alleviate all your pain through crying.
One should not take the blame for what happened, as this is not the best way to find relief. Your pet simply died and that is not your responsibility. It’s better for you to be calm with yourself and forgive yourself.
Be patient, as for the first few weeks you will feel really sad. If you don’t feel like talking about it, don’t talk, if you prefer to spend the weekend indoors, do it. But keep in mind that at some point you will have to go back to your usual life.
Lastly, remember your dog or cat playing tricks and being happy by your side. Try not to save any elements he used, as this will cause more pain. Certainly there are many homeless animals that need food, bedding and toys. And wait a prudent time to bring another pet home. Once you know it will not be a replacement, you will be prepared to give the opportunity for this new life to come into your home.
