CHICAGO, US, 31st July 2023 - Recent grief statistics have revealed that 46% of people across the world have experienced the death of a pet. For many, the loss of a beloved animal can be their first experience of bereavement.
Grief experts at Medium Britta have shared their five top tips on helping children to overcome the loss of a pet.
1. Talk Openly About What Happened
1. Talk Openly About What Happened
By the age of 8 or 9, most children understand the finality of death. So having an honest and frank discussion with children is likely a sensible approach. Below this age, parents will have beliefs or an agreement about what they tell their children in the event of a bereavement
2. Involve the Child in What Happens Next with Their Pet
2. Involve the Child in What Happens Next with Their Pet
It is advised to involve children, if they are old enough, in discussions around whether they should be buried or cremated and where the ashes should be spread.
3. Discuss Creating Some sort of Memorial
3. Discuss Creating Some sort of Memorial
Planting a tree in the garden or having a small plaque put onto a tree is a great way to remember a pet. Printing a favourite photo and framing it in the house is an option. Children may also like to create a scrapbook. Children may have their own ideas on how they would like to remember their pet.
4. Be Patient
4. Be Patient
The loss of a pet can be incredibly difficult, but for children in particular, especially if it’s their first experience of grief, it can be incredibly challenging. It can take weeks or even months for a child to feel ok about what has happened and parents are urged to be patient with them.
5. Continue to Talk Openly
5. Continue to Talk Openly
It’s really important for children to know that even though the loss of a pet hurts, they will always have the memories made with that pet. Talking about happy memories with the pet can be helpful after the initial shock of the loss has subsided.
The timing of finding a new pet can be difficult, particularly when children are involved.
A spokesperson for mediumbritta.com said: “There’s never a perfect time here. It’s not a simple answer. Allow enough time to pass so the shock has subsided and so your child doesn’t feel the new pet is a replacement for the lost pet.
“Explain that you can never replace your old pet, but that you have so much love to give to pets that there may come a time to welcome a new one. Ultimately, involve your children in the decision both in terms of what type of pet and the timing.”
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