FAMILY PET
Children and
Pet Loss
F
or most households, a pet is a
close family member. Sadly,
the joy of having a beloved pet
partners with the heartbreak of a pet’s death,
whether due to old age, illness, accident or
euthanasia.
The death of a family pet is often
a child’s first experience with loss and
grief. It can be confusing to them, as many
children have a sibling-like relationship
with their pet. While parents are grieving
the loss of their 4-footed “child” or other
companion animal, it can be challenging
helping their two-footed child understand
what has happened. The child likely will
need support and compassion in working
through a number of emotions.
Grief is a process, not a solitary event.
It can take many forms. Grief can last from
days to months to years and exhibited in a
variety of ways. Reaction to a death varies
depending on a person’s age. It looks
different in children than it does in adults.
Children do not always cry or
immediately show emotion. But this does
not mean they are not deeply affected by
the loss.
How Your Pet Died
talking to kids before the death takes place.
If you have decided that it is best to have the
pet euthanized, you may want to explain that:
your veterinarians have done every-
thing that they can
your pet would never get better
this is the kindest way to take the pet’s
pain away
the pet will die peacefully, without
feeling hurt or scared
When A Family Pet Dies
Although the family will be going
through a difficult time, a few things will
make it easier:
Let any caregivers and teachers know
about the pet’s death. It may help them
understand any changes in your child’s
behavior, attentiveness, appetite, etc.
Let children see your own sadness.
This helps you and lets them know it’s
ok to feel sad when you lose a loved
one – pet or human. They will know
they are not alone and it is very hard to
say goodbye.
Don’t lie and say “Rover ran away” or
“Fluffy went on a trip.” It won’t make
a child feel better and can make them
feel worse if they think they were to
blame. When the truth comes out, now
or later, your child probably will be an-
gry — even if it’s years later.
Whether a pet died of natural causes,
suddenly or via euthanasia, the hardest
part may be breaking the sad news to a
child. Find somewhere they feel safe and
comfortable and won’t be easily distracted.
Talk with them one-on-one, giving them
your full attention and time for reaction.
If the pet’s death is sudden, calmly
explain what has happened. As with
any tough issue, try to gauge how much
information a child needs to hear based
continued on page 61
on their age, maturity
level,
and
life
experiences.
Keep
•GROOMING
it simple. Be brief,
•DAYCARE
allowing the child
•OVERNIGHT
to let you know how
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October 2018 WNY Family 55