In Loving Memory
The new page can be viewed
here. Existing entries transferred 08/08/2003
When your Westie dies a
companion and friend dies. It is perfectly natural to feel upset. Your Westie has probably
been part of your life for quite a few years and you have looked after it, fed it, loved
it and above all enjoyed its company. Give yourself time to get over the loss. Some people may feel better
after a few weeks, but others find that remembering they're pet's death still makes them
upset even after several years.
Some people will find getting another Westie immediately will help ease the pain. I know,
Because I am one of those people. Talk about your animal's death, especially to friends who have had a similar
experience. Some people also find it helpful to write the thoughts and
feelings down in a diary or even a poem. Hold a special ceremony in remembrance of your pet ? perhaps bury a
memento or a tree or shrub in a favourite part of the garden. This can be a
good way of showing your pet the respect it deserves and also provides a
good opportunity to let out some emotions.
Don't blame yourself for your pet's death. If you gave it care and
attention during its life and took it to your vet when it was ill you did
all you could. Try not to blame other people either. Vets cannot always save
an animal's life. If your pet died as a result of an accident there was
probably nothing you could have done to prevent this. If your pet is very ill and unlikely to recover, your vet may suggest that
it is put to sleep. This can be a very difficult decision to make, but it is
one of the kindest things that an owner can do for a suffering animal. Don't
be afraid to show how upset you are in front of the vet. The vet will
understand your feelings.
You won't be able to help thinking about how much you miss your pet. But
remember the good times too. Think about your pet's funny habits and what
you loved most about it. It's quite normal to feel angry when a pet dies or
to feel that its death was unfair particularly if the animal had a serious
disease or was involved in an accident. These emotions are part of the
process of coming to terms with your loss.
When to get a new companion animal is something that only you can decide.
Listen to your own feelings. You may feel that no other pet can take your
old pet's place. But if you feel that the time is right to get a new pet,
that's fine too. Allow yourself plenty of time to make your decision.
For anyone who needs support
after the loss of a pet, contact the Pet Loss Befriender Service
Free on: 0800 096 6606. (UK)
I have created a new
remembrance page, If you would like to add a message following the loss of your Westie,
please feel free to add in your details.
The new page can be viewed
here. Existing entries transferred 08/08/2003
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