What is Grief? How long will it last?

If your pet has a serious illness or a critical injury and is facing death or has died, then you are grieving. Grief is a normal and natural healing response to loss. Each of us experience grief differently. There is no right way to grieve, and no timelines for when grief is complete.

The emotions you feel during times of grief can be painful and are influenced by the strength of the bond with your pet, the role your pet plays in your life, the circumstances surrounding your pet's death, previous experiences with loss, and how your family deals with loss.

Listed below are some common signs of grief. Use these descriptions to remind yourself that the fatigue, confusion, and sadness you continue to feel are normal and expected during this process.

COMMON SIGNS OF GRIEF

Intellectual

• Denial

• Experiencing hallucinations

• Sense of unreality

• Preoccupied by loss

• Need to reminisce

Social

• Withdrawal/Isolation

• Reluctance to ask for help

• Dependence on or rejection of others

• Need to find distractions from grief

Physical

• Crying, sobbing

• Tightness in the chest

• Fatigue, sleep disturbances

• Loss of appetite

Emotional

• Sadness, depression

• Anxiety, panic

• Anger, irritability

• Desire to blame others for the loss

• Embarrassment

• Guilt

• Overwhelmed

Spiritual

• Bargaining with God to prevent the loss

• Angry with God

• Renewed or shaken religious beliefs

• Paranormal visions/dreams about the loss

The death of a pet is hard to bear, and can be especially overwhelming if you are also experiencing the following:

• Recent other loses

• A history of multiple losses

• No previous significant losses

• Little support from family and friends

• Feelings of guilt or responsibility concerning the death

• Witnessed a traumatic death

If you feel your grief is complicated, unmanageable or prolonged, you may want to consult a professional who specializes in grief and loss.