The Loss of a Pet: A Veterinarian’s Perspective.
–by Elizabeth F. Baird, DVM, CVPP, CCRT, cVMA
Pet loss can be so terribly painful. As a vet- erinarian, this is something I see almost daily. I feel it through my clients, their families and chil- dren, through my own pain and that of my staff members. As a pet owner, I’ve been there many times too. The grief can be overwhelming at times. It is the loss of a family member, a cherished companion, a warm friend that provided unconditional love and asked for so little in return.
Grief is a natural process. The healthiest thing to do is allow yourself to feel the pain
Dr. Baird, KeevaRue and Stitch.
and work through it. Share your thoughts with friends and family who understand your attachment.
There is so much misunderstanding about
Elizabeth F. Baird, DVM, CVPP, CCRT, cVMA is certified in pain management, canine rehabilitation and veterinary medical acupuncture. She is the Practice Owner of Country Oaks Animal Hospital & Boarding Kennel, Palm Harbor: 727.785.6524 and Steele Pain Management Rehabilitation Center for Animals
727.785.HURT.
grief and loss in general, but even more so when the subject is pet loss. Not everyone understands the pain and the grief many animal lovers feel when they lose a beloved pet, which can leave the bereaved feeling isolated in their grief. Many people find some solace in memorial-
izing their pets, and there are many ways to do so. These memorials can help provide comfort and closure through the grieving process while allow- ing us to retain our favorite, cherished memories of the dog we so sorely miss. The following is a list of some of the many ways we can remember our beloved pets. Share the news with understanding friends.
Tell tales about your pet’s life, favorite memories and share your grief with people who under- stand. This may include a celebration of life cere- mony. Pet loss support groups or professional counselors can also help us cope with our grief. Write a letter or poem. Express your pent-up
feelings by writing down your thoughts. If you didn’t get to say goodbye due to sudden loss, this is a wonderful way to do so. Write down just how much they meant to you and how much you will miss them. Plant a tree or special flowers in your garden
to create a living memorial for your pet that you will see every day. Create a photo album or photo collage.
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You can relish each memory as you collect those important moments from their life. This can also be a good way to engage children in sharing their memories and offering them a healthy outlet for their grief. Scatter their ashes in a place that had
meaning for you both. Engage an artist to draw or paint a portrait of
your beloved pet. There are many types of keepsakes you can
acquire to memorialize your lost companion. Jewelry is available that can hold a small amount of their ashes, such as a pendant to keep them close to your heart. If you elect cremation, their ashes can be used to create a permanent piece of glass art that can always move with you (example below). Paw prints in clay or special sand can save that special paw print forever. Grief is a normal but painful response to loss.
As distressing as grief can be, it is the price we pay for having given, and received, so much love. A memorial can provide a means to continue to cherish your beloved pet and hold them close even after they’re gone.
U Y
Dr. Baird has a link for Pet Loss on her website under the link Resources with
additional supportive information and more links for guidance.
CountryOaksAnimalHospital.com
Let Your Pet’s Love Shine.
Suncatcher Pet Memorials: Artistically wrapped copper wire around two glass beads infused with your pet’s ashes or fur. A beautiful way to keep a part of them with you forever. Perfect for the patio, deck or garden.
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