Grieving After Pet Loss: Myths, Truth, Guilt and Comfort for Grief

In this episode we are joined by Louise Griffey, grief recovery specialist, to discuss the topic of grieving the loss of a pet. We explore how grief is emotional pain and that the depth of grief experienced when losing a pet can be just as intense as losing a human. Louise emphasises that every relationship with a pet or human is unique and should not be compared. She encourages us to seek the right kind of support from safe people in your inner circle or from professionals specialising in pet loss. Louise also discusses with Killian the common emotions experienced during grief, such as guilt and regret, and suggests coping strategies, including reframing guilt and finding ways to honour and remember the pet. For friends hoping to support others, we cover how it is important to listen without judgment and criticism, and check in on the person weeks, months, and even years later. We discuss different myths around grief including the stages of grief concept as well as the myth that time alone will heal. Is it really necessary to actively process and feel the pain and how do numbing behaviours impact the healing process. We touch on the questions when is it the right time to get a new pet, how we speak to children around pet loss and where people can look to receive support.

Takeaways

• The depth of grief when losing a pet can be just as intense as losing a human.
• Every relationship with a pet is unique and should not be compared to other losses.
• Seek support from safe people in your inner circle or professionals specialising in pet loss.
• Common emotions experienced during grief include guilt and regret.
• Coping with guilt involves reframing it and looking at the entire relationship with the pet.
• Finding ways to honour and remember the pet can help in the grieving process. Listen without judgment and offer support to someone grieving the loss of a pet.
• The stages of grief concept is a myth; grief does not follow a linear progression.
• Time does not heal grief; it is necessary to actively process and feel the pain.
• Numbing behaviours such as keeping busy and substance abuse only suppress grief.
• Approach the decision to get a new pet with compassion and ensure you have processed the loss.
• Be honest with children about the death of a pet and maintain open communication about grief.
• Check in with yourself, acknowledge your feelings, and seek support if needed.