The passing of a beloved pet is never easy; it’s devastating, and it takes time to come to terms with it. However, if you’re one of the many who finds it equally heartbreaking not to be able to share their love with a fur buddy, then it’s quite tempting to adopt a new one. So, when is the best time to get a new pet after one passes?
Getting A New Pet After One Passes Away: Things To Consider
Take Time To Grieve
Your dog or cat was a huge part of your life, like a best friend or family member, the bond you’ve formed was strong and unique. It is normal to feel a roller-coaster of emotions; one minute you’re sad, lonely and angry, the next minute you feel relieved, especially if your fur buddy had been ailing for a while.
Grief is a natural feeling when experiencing a loss. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, a Swiss-American psychiatrist, developed the “stages of grief” – DENIAL, ANGER, BARGAINING, DEPRESSION, ACCEPTANCE. It’s different for every person, so you have to process YOUR feelings. Mourn the loss of your pet the way you feel is right for you and don’t let others rush you through the process. Until you find a sense of peace with the loss, avoid trying to fill the emptiness with a new pet.
Think Of Your Household
Who are the people living in the home? Did they also have a close relationship with your pet? If so, your family, especially your children, should have a voice when deciding to get a new pet after one dies. Have a household meeting to get a sense of where your family is in the grieving process. Are they ready to have a new pet? If you’re living with other people, getting a new pet should be a collective decision.
Observe Your Pet’s Behaviour
Pets, especially dogs, grieve too. Without their animal companion, they may also feel miserable. However, introducing a new pet may not be the best way to ease their loneliness; in some cases, it can even cause tension.
Observe changes in behaviour, especially immediately after the passing of your pet. Reduced appetite, being reclusive, loss of interest in usual activities are some signs that they are mourning. Pay close attention to symptoms of other illnesses and consult your vet if necessary. The only time you should consider getting a new pet is when you’re sure that the remaining ones in the home are back to their typical selves.
Remember The Responsibilities That Come With A New Pet
When you take a new animal into the home, understand that you have to take on the responsibilities of a pet owner. Remind yourself of what is involved — the adjustment period, visits to the vet, grooming, feeding and the time you need to attend to them, especially when you adopt puppies or kittens.
Having A New Pet After One Passes: Timing Is Everything
There isn’t a set “right” time to get a new pet. It’s a decision that comes along with self-reflection, patience and acceptance. Once you’re truly ready to have a new pet after one passes away, you should not feel guilty. Remember that you’re not replacing the animal you lost. As they travel through the Rainbow Bridge, they will be so happy to see you share your unconditional love to another furball that needs and deserves it.
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