Handling the Grief of Losing a Pet

I lost my beloved dog, Lilly, last week, and my heart is shattered. She was more than just a pet—she was my little buddy, always at my feet while I worked, keeping me company between meetings, deadlines, and daily life's chaos.

When I had to cancel some client appointments to care for her in her final days, I shared my loss with a few colleagues and friends. Honestly, I didn’t expect anyone to really understand the depth of my connection with Lilly or the intensity of my grief. But the response I received blew me away—calls, cards, flowers, and so much more than I ever imagined. I feel incredibly fortunate to have such caring people around me.

But I know that not everyone gets this kind of support when they lose a pet. Grieving a pet can be tough, especially when others don’t see it as “real” grief. It’s a unique challenge—trying to cope with your emotions in a world that doesn’t always recognize the bond you had with your furry friend.

So, if you ever find yourself in a similar situation, here are some ways to navigate the loss of a pet, especially in a professional environment:

1. Acknowledge Your Grief: Your feelings are valid, even if others don’t get it. Give yourself permission to grieve.

2. Communicate Selectively: Share your feelings with those who understand. If you have a supportive colleague or supervisor, let them know what you’re going through.

3. Create Personal Rituals: Honor your pet’s memory in your way. Whether it’s lighting a candle, keeping a memento at your desk, or setting aside time to remember them, find something that brings you comfort.

4. Set Boundaries: If you’re struggling to focus at work, it’s okay to set boundaries. Take a day off, work from home, or allow yourself short breaks to manage your emotions.

5. Seek External Support: If you’re not getting the support you need at work, find it elsewhere—friends, family, or even pet loss support groups can be incredibly helpful.

6. Educate Others (When You Feel Like It): Sometimes, people just don’t realize how much a pet can mean. A simple statement like, “Losing my pet has been really hard on me,” can help others be more empathetic.

One of the hardest parts about grieving a pet at work is dealing with others' lack of understanding. Comments like, “It was just a pet” or “You can get another one” can sting. But remember, these reactions usually come from a place of not understanding, not malice.

If you encounter this, it can help to have a response ready, like, “My pet was a big part of my life, and it will take time for me to adjust.” You don’t owe anyone an explanation, but having something prepared can help you feel more in control.

In the end, grieving a pet is a deeply personal experience, and it’s important to honor that, even if others don’t fully understand. Your grief is real, and taking the time to process it is an essential part of healing.