For many children, pets are their best friends and irreplaceable members of the family. The death of a pet is a terrible loss for them. When several activities at home are built around the pets, the absence of the animal companion leaves a void that is hard to fill.
Although you might want to protect your little one from the harsh reality, it is best for them to face the truth. Losing a pet can be the first experience with death for your child. Here are some tips on how to help when your child loses a pet.
1. Be honest
Sharing the news of losing a dear one is never easy. When a pet dies, be straightforward and gently explain what happened. Avoid using indirect language while speaking about death. Your child should know that their pet is never coming back. Give them some time to understand the situation. Be patient and ready to answer their questions. Allow them to react and express their emotions. An honest explanation will give them a proper closure rather than saying the dog ran away. Other lies like sending the dog away to live with new owners might cause anger and resentment. If you euthanize a pet, let your child know why it was necessary. The concept of euthanasia can be confusing for really young children. Wait until they’re old enough to be able to grasp it.
Recommended reading: How To Explain Death To A Child
2. Let them grieve
Grieving is painful but a natural reaction to a tragic loss. Remember that each child will have a different reaction to the loss of a pet. The child who was closest to the dog might take it the hardest among their siblings. Let them talk about their feelings. Don’t suppress your emotions in front of your child. Allow them to see that such feelings are normal and not shameful. Arrange some quiet healing time at home, like reading books or watching a movie together.
3. Provide comfort
Hug your child and reassure them that being sad after losing their dog or cat is normal and healthy. Let them handle the loss in their way instead of pushing them in a certain direction. They may not show any sign of sadness for the first few days after hearing the news. Let the information sink in. Allow them to process the idea of not being able to see their pet anymore. Encourage them to engage in activities that bring them comfort, such as playing with their friends, drawing, gardening, and so on.
4. Make resources available
There are plenty of books, movies, and podcasts on the subject of losing a pet animal. Such material will help a child realize that these experiences are common and everyone goes through them in their lives. It will help them to accept their feelings and teach how to cope when your child loses a pet. Choose the content that is appropriate for their age.
Fur friends are a reliable source of comfort for children. Even though you cannot protect kids from the loss of a pet, you can help them recover from heartbreak.
