Why Losing A Pet Is Hard?

Animals have shorter lifespans. That’s why pet owners can’t help but fear their deaths. But unfortunately, it’s inevitable. 

For those pet owners who experience the loss of their beloved pets, they understand and experience the heartbreak. From accepting the fate of their furry best friend to the ceremony to celebrate their wonderful life, they experienced them all. Each pet owner feels the loss of their pets differently. But why is it this hard and heartbreaking? 

Reasons Why Losing A Pet Is Hard?

Many people don’t understand how hard and heartbreaking it is for pet owners to lose their pets. Some people probably think they are overreacting or just looking for attention because they are just dogs, cats, and animals. So, why is it hard for pet owners to lose their pets?

A Bond Like No Other

Pets are very caring and affectionate, especially dogs. If you’re a pet owner, you’ve probably experienced your pets welcoming you home after a stressful day. They are probably happier and more excited to see you than your own family. Their love for you is unparalleled and pets are not afraid to show it. And pet owners respond to their pets’ affection and love. This builds an emotional bond. 

Also, pets are very loyal. Whenever you show your love to them, they appreciate it and give it back to you. Pets will not leave you as long as you treat them right and feed them. Even if you don’t have much, as long as you don’t leave your pets, they will stay with you. Because of their loyalty, owners usually reciprocate this loyalty which strengthens the bond.

When you exercise or take your pets on walks or parks, this strengthens your bond with your pets. You integrate them into your life. But when you suddenly lose them, there’s suddenly a void in your heart and routine. No more walks. No more excited pets welcoming you home. No more cuddles. Suddenly, your home feels like it’s missing something. Making it hard to adapt and move on.

Part Of The Family

Typically, pets are taught and disciplined. Pet owners teach their pets tricks. You spend time with them and feed them, just like what you do with your family. You bathe them, cuddle with your pets, and probably, kiss them as well. 

Many owners treat their beloved pets as family members because of all these and their cuteness and loyalty. The relationship and bond you built and strengthened with your pet are irreplaceable. That’s why losing them is hard. 

When you lose your pets, it feels like you lost a family member or a close friend. The attachment and bond are as strong, or even stronger than that of a family member. This makes it really hard to grieve and cope with the loss of a pet. 

Euthanasia: Makes Losing A Pet More Painful

Losing a pet because of euthanasia can be harder than losing them through natural causes or accidents. Making the decision yourself when it’s time to let go is very difficult for pet owners. Because they’re the ones who need to decide whether their pets should endure and continue living or to die to avoid more pain. This is a very big responsibility. Sometimes, the uncertainty of whether they made the right decision or not eats them up and makes it harder to let go. The grieving process can also be more difficult and longer.

What Is Euthanasia?

Euthanasia is the act of killing a terminally ill or hopelessly injured animal humanely. It is totally painless and an act of mercy killing. Not all animals should be euthanized. The valid reasons for the euthanasia of animals include the following:

Terminally ill

Painful incurable diseases and conditions

Unmanageable and dangerous behavior

Critically or hopelessly injured

Lack of ability to support the pets. (But the veterinarian will probably suggest rehoming rather than euthanizing your pets.)

The veterinarians can’t make the decision for pet owners. That’s why it’s important to understand the situation and condition of your pets. If your pet is injured or ill, talk to your veterinarian. Let them explain your medical options, chances of recovery, and, if there are any, potential effects or disabilities. 

Talk to your family and discuss the options. Be open and honest. Explain the situation properly, especially to children. Children and pets have a special bond. Consider their feelings and include them in the discussion.

But if your pet is totally healthy but you can’t support them, rehoming or looking for other options should be your top priority rather than euthanizing them.

Pet Owners Grieve Differently

Whatever the cause or situation is, losing a pet is hard and heartbreaking. There’s no easy and sure way to cope and grieve their deaths. Every pet owner grieves differently. Some prefer commissioning a custom pet portrait from Memorialize Art or planting a tree to commemorate their pet’s life. While others prefer talking to their fellow pet owners or with professionals. 

The most important thing is to keep in mind that you’re not alone. You have family, friends, and fellow pet owners to talk or confide in. If you feel there’s no one to talk to, seek help from a professional.