Is it normal to be so upset over the death of a pet?
SusanHickmanPhD
on
Nov 2, 2016
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Yes it is! For many people, a pet becomes a trusted and beloved member of the family. And in many cases, pet owners feel their pet is the only being in their life who loves them unconditionally, despite their flaws. Many people I know have chosen not to have children and treat their pets much like a parent treats a child. So the bonding to a pet can be very strong. This means that losing this pet will induce grief just like losing a human loved one will. Resist the urge to feel "silly" when other people do not understand your grief. Treat is a normal grief in that it will take time to heal.
Anonymous
on
Oct 21, 2016
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Absolutely. It depends on the person how they deal with it. Some cry for weeks, some forget about it right after it happened. Whatever the reaction, it's probably understandable psychologically.
BeIiever
on
Oct 27, 2016
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Grieving over any loss is completely acceptable. Accept the grief and let yourself move through it as fast or as slow as you need.
Anonymous
on
Oct 30, 2016
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Of course. Losing a pet is the equivalent of losing a best friend.
Anonymous
on
Oct 31, 2016
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Of course. Your pet is like your partner. You play with them, take care of them, they make you happy in return. Losing a pet is like losing a close friend, and the grief increases the closer you were to your pet.
Kyle1989
on
Nov 21, 2016
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Yes, it is very normal to be distraught after a pet passes. Pets are family members, and often times are much more loyal and loving than most humans. As hard as it is to lose a close companion, it will get better with time. Though it definitely isn't going to be the same, there are always pets out there waiting for your love, and they will be more than happy to reciprocate this love.
Anonymous
on
Jul 4, 2017
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Absolutely! Pets are part of your family. Just like losing a family member or friend, when a pet dies we go through a period of grieving. Allow yourself to feel your emotions and express them in healthy ways. In time, the memories of your beloved pet will bring happiness instead of only sorrow. Hugs...
Anonymous
on
Aug 28, 2018
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The passing of a pet is heartbreaking. They have been with you however long and missing them is hard on the heart. For me, I have lost a family dog and it hurt me so much. I was extremely upset and didn’t want to think about not having him around. But I got some very kind words when it happened and it make me realize that he was old and it was his time. I had to remember that wherever he is, he’s at peace. Knowing all of that information was what was able to get me through that time.
Emma879
on
Apr 14, 2020
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It is completely normal to be upset over the death of a pet. A pet, like a human being, can be the source of a deep connection. I understand how upsetting it can be to lose a pet, as I have experienced it myself. However, everyone feels differently, and there is no conclusion to how you should handle grief. What is important for everyone is to be considerate towards themselves and their emotions. Let yourself grieve the loss of your loved one and consider any emotion that comes along. Every situation is different, and the best you can do is let yourself feel.
Anonymous
on
Nov 2, 2020
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Yes it is. Many people get emotionally attached to their pets, which is a normal thing. They bring us happiness as much as human beings do, losing a pet can be as hard as losing a friend or family member. There is support out there to help you overcome hard feelings during times of grief.
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