Mourning phase

The grieving phase: A difficult path, but not alone

When our beloved pet dies, the pain often feels unbearable. We often deny the reality of the loss and wish the animal were still there. But grieving is a necessary part of our lives, a way for us to learn to cope with our pain.

The first three stages of grief are like a storm raging through our lives. We must overcome them before we can find ourselves again and embark on a new path.

Phase 1: Denial

During this phase, we often feel helpless and powerless. We deny the loss of our pet and wish it were still there. But the reality is harsh. It hurts to have lost our beloved companion.

We need compassion and empathy during this time. A loved one can help us organize the funeral and other arrangements. We don't have to be alone in this moment.

Phase 2: Emerging emotions

During this phase, our emotions erupt. We feel pain, anger, and rage, and sometimes even blame. It's a difficult time, but it's important not to let our feelings get the better of us.

We need to allow our emotions to emerge in order to effectively manage the grieving process. We should ask ourselves whether we have done enough for our pet and whether there were other options. This question must be answered satisfactorily in order to successfully conclude the grieving process.

Phase 3: Searching and Separating

During this phase, we seek out places that remind us of our pet. We process our grief through dialogue or memories. It's a time of saying goodbye that can last weeks, months, or years.

We should allow ourselves patience and time to cope with grief. Starting now, it's a good idea to actively take care of our mementos. We can decorate an area of ​​our home with collected or created mementos. This way, we always have a place where we can reflect. We call this the memory corner.

Phase 4: New relationship to self and world

In the final phase of the grieving process, we achieve inner peace. The pain of loss fades into the background, and we begin to accept the death of our pet.

We make new plans for our lives and redesign life without our pet. Nevertheless, the memory of our pet remains a precious part of the lives of those left behind. We cherish them as fond memories.