Emotional Preparedness: How to Navigate Guilt and Grief
Full disclosure: this is likely one of the harder posts to write. I, personally, struggle quite a bit with the coulda-woulda-shoulda that comes with grief; this is magnified when it is grief related to animals in my life. Yet, all of us cope with these feelings differently, and perhaps this can help you prepare for whatever journey on which you are currently endeavoring or what the future will hold for you.
Part 4: Emotional Preparedness: How to Navigate Guilt and Grief
Losing a beloved companion animal is one of the most difficult experiences a pet owner will face. Whether through natural passing, euthanasia, or a sudden event such as an accident, the loss is likely to leave a lasting impression on a person. The loss of an animal is accompanied by aftercare decisions such aquamation, burial, or cremation as well; this can call-forth emotions such as guilt and grief which can feel overwhelming. While these feelings are natural, it’s important to recognize that saying “goodbye” and letting go are both acts of love for yourself and for your animal.
Common Emotions When Facing the Loss of a Companion Animal
Many pet owners experience guilt, wondering if they made the right choices… if they missed something… did they do enough? Some might wonder if they should have tried one more treatment… if they should have given in to the moment and celebrated with a “best day ever” memory. These questions and feelings are common, but it’s important to remember that providing comfort and dignity in your pet’s final moments is the ultimate act of care (Allen, 2021). Grief often follows, sometimes unexpectedly intense, because pets are not just animals—they are family.
Practicing Self-Compassion and Forgiveness
Navigating loss requires self-compassion. Recognizing that there is no “right” way to grieve nor is there an official timeline. You may question if you made decisions in the right amount of time, and there very well may not be an answer to those ambiguous concerns. Yet, with love and your pet’s best interest at heart, you can help ease feelings of guilt. The Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement (APLB) recommends creating personal rituals, such as lighting a candle, writing a letter to your pet, or gathering with loved ones to share memories (APLB, n.d.).
Euthanasia as an Act of Love
When a pet’s quality of life declines, choosing euthanasia is often the kindest option. It prevents unnecessary suffering and allows for a peaceful passing (Anderson, 2020). Veterinary professionals emphasize that euthanasia is a compassionate decision, not a failure.
At Eternal Tides, we understand the profound emotions tied to pet loss. Whether you’re considering end-of-life care, pet cremation, or aquamation in Fargo, we are here to support you with resources and a compassionate space for healing.
References
Allen, M. A. (2021). Coping with Sorrow on the Loss of Your Pet. Alpine Publications.
Anderson, M. (2020). The Pet Loss Companion: Healing Advice from Family Therapists Who Lead Pet Loss Groups. Lumina Media.
The Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement (APLB). (n.d.). Pet Loss Support Resources. Retrieved from aplb.org.
