Pet Loss Psychotherapy
Dr. Nancy Curotto, licensed psychologist, can help you recover from pet loss.
I have questions.....
Why does it hurt so much?
Why can't my friends and family understand my grief?
Why can't my friends and family understand my grief?
Mourning a pet can be similar to grieving the loss of a close friend or immediate family member. The sadness and pain you feel are real and valid because pets are more than just animals—they are companions, family members, and emotional support systems. Allowing yourself to grieve, finding support from others who understand the loss, and taking time to reflect on the special bond you shared can be essential steps in healing from this profound loss. Be kind to yourself. Dealing with pet loss is difficult; get support from a counselor or licensed psychologist specializing in Pet Grief and Bereavement.
Why can't my friends and family understand my grief?
Why can't my friends and family understand my grief?
Why can't my friends and family understand my grief?
Losing a pet is hard enough to endure without positive community, friends, and family support. It's often challenging for others to fully understand or empathize with pet grief because it is a personal experience, and not everyone has the same connection with animals. While your community and peers may love you dearly, if they have not ever formed a relationship with a pet or believe in the value of pets, these individuals may be unable to understand your grief. Getting support during this difficult time is essential. Consider joining an in-person or online support group, calling a hotline, or seeking therapy.
Why am I overwhelmed by thoughts of losing my pet?
Why can't my friends and family understand my grief?
Why do I relive the last days/hours of my pet’s life?
Anticipatory loss occurs when we imagine our lives without our beloved pets or face difficult health news or life changes. It is natural to feel some anxiety and fear when faced with pending costs, including time and money; getting support and remaining present is essential. Anticipating anxiety can tax your physical and mental health and keep you on constant alert for an unpredictable amount of time. Journaling, meditation, or even talking to a pet loss counselor can help you process these feelings and bring peace.
Why do I relive the last days/hours of my pet’s life?
Who gets custody of my pet if I divorce, break up, or my roommate and I move on?
Why do I relive the last days/hours of my pet’s life?
When grieving the loss of a pet, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed by emotions. The psychological phenomenon known as recency bias can sometimes intensify the experience of grief. Recency bias can make the loss of a pet feel more intense and all-encompassing, and it is important to recognize that this is how our brain is hardwired to remember information. Our brains are designed to process and retain recent information more efficiently than older data. Recency bias refers to the tendency to place greater emotional weight on more recent events, often distorting how we remember and process the past. This type of bias can shape how we navigate our emotions and memories after losing a beloved animal companion.
How long will my grief last?
Who gets custody of my pet if I divorce, break up, or my roommate and I move on?
Who gets custody of my pet if I divorce, break up, or my roommate and I move on?
Grief has no time limit, and many factors can influence how long and intensely you grieve, including your attachment to your pet, your coping mechanisms, and other life circumstances. For some, grief can last days; for others, it can linger for weeks, months, or years. Do not feel pressure to speed up your grieving process or growth. Understand that the process of grief is unique. The key is to be kind to yourself and allow yourself the time you need to heal without setting expectations on how long it "should" take.
Who gets custody of my pet if I divorce, break up, or my roommate and I move on?
Who gets custody of my pet if I divorce, break up, or my roommate and I move on?
Who gets custody of my pet if I divorce, break up, or my roommate and I move on?
When deciding who gets custody of a pet after a divorce, breakup, or separation from a roommate, the answer depends on a few key factors, including the legal jurisdiction you're in, the type of relationship, and any prior agreements you may have had.
If you lose custody of your pet or are required to share custody, the loss of control is intense and can cause overwhelming stress. You can feel anxious and sad when you do not have daily access to your pet's life. If you're concerned about losing custody of your pet, consulting a family law attorney familiar with pet custody issues in your jurisdiction might be helpful.
When will I be ready to love another pet?
When will I be ready to love another pet?
When will I be ready to love another pet?
The first step in deciding whether you are ready for a new pet is recognizing where you are in your grief process. While some individuals grieve quickly and are emotionally prepared for a new pet, others need more time to process the loss. Rushing the process is risky to you, and your relationship with a new pet, as a new pet, comes with a different personality and needs. When you are ready, embrace the new journey that another pet will bring to your life.