Pet Loss Grief Guide: Part 1

The loss of a beloved pet

đź‘‹ This online guide is part of a series, walking you through some of the early stages of losing a pet.

In this guide:

  • Alex’s story of loss
  • Introducing this series of guides for the early days of pet loss

Please remember that we all grieve and process emotions differently, and everyone’s situation is different too. Some parts of this guide might align well with you, and others may not seem relevant. Take from it what you need.

This is available to Griefity app users.

Get the app now via your device’s store.

Introduction

My Personal Story of Loss

Hi there,

First of all, I’m truly sorry you are here, it likely means you’ve just lost your beloved furry friend, and that kind of pain runs deep. I call them “furry babies” because, for so many of us, that’s exactly what they are, our family. Losing them can be absolutely devastating.

I still remember when I lost mine. It was July 2017, and her name was Lara, a beautiful black Weimaraner who had been with me for 16 unforgettable years. I was there the day she was born, one Easter afternoon, and raised her since. Sadly, we had to say goodbye after a brain tumor made her life too painful to continue.

That evening, our whole family gathered in the living room. We called the vet, gave her one last hug, and I said to her, “I love you, and I’m going to miss you so much, my dear friend.” I held her tight as she passed. I still cry as I remember it. Lara was pure unconditional love and losing her left me completely heartbroken.

It’s because of her, and for everyone who’s felt this kind of loss, that I created this mini first-aid series for pet grief.

When Lara died, I felt so alone in my pain. This is my way of honoring her, and all the other furry friends who have given us unconditional love throughout their lives.To create this course, I interviewed people who’ve gone through this experience, as well as veterinarians. It’s grounded in their stories and in evidence-based psychological care.

The course is divided into ten thoughtful sections to help you navigate the loss of your furry baby:

  1. The loss of a beloved pet
    Introduction (this part)
  2. Acknowledging the unspoken: understanding disenfranchised grief
    Validating your loss when others may not fully understand.
  3. The power of ritual: why creating a memorial matters
    Saying goodbye and beginning the healing journey.
  4. Life after loss: redefining daily routines without them
    How to adjust to their absence.
  5. Grief isn’t linear: what you might expect (and not expect)
    Understanding the emotional waves of pet loss.
  6. Sitting with the pain: how to feel without numbing
    Gentle strategies for allowing emotions to move through you.
  7. Grieving together: the importance of shared mourning
    Connecting with others who understand your bond.
  8. How to deal with painful repetitive thoughts
    Strategies for processing and moving forwards.
  9. Getting stuck in grief: recognising complicated grief
    Knowing when and how to seek extra support.
  10. Final reflections

If you ever have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out at team@griefity.com. We’re here to support you as best we can.

This course is dedicated to Lara.
“I love you my friend. I always will”

Alex Murray

Psychologist and Grief Specialist at Griefity

Throwback to 2001: 17 year old me with 1 year old Lara.

Next up

Pet Loss Grief Guide: Part 2

Acknowledging the unspoken: understanding disenfranchised grief

Next >