When a beloved pet dies, we can easily get stuck in the pain of the loss. But there is something that we tend to forget in the midst of our pain, and that is to celebrate the life of our pet and to feel and express our gratitude for all that our pet was – and still is.
This article is for you whose pet is dying as well as for you whose pet has already passed.
In the following I will share some insights on celebrating your pet’s life as a way to healing after pet loss.
You can learn a lot about life and death from nature, for example a forest. The cycle of life and death is seen clearly as you walk in a forest – especially one that is allowed to grow naturally and is not ‘managed’.
Life and death is part of everything you see – and they are two sides of the same coin, so to speak.
As you reflect on the eternal cycle of life and death, you will see that when you accept death as a natural part of life, it becomes less scary. Death is not the end – it is simply the end of one cycle. Like a day comes to its end, night comes and is followed by a new day.
Where are you in the cycle of life – with your own life and your pet’s?
If your pet is at the end of his or her life, you can help by becoming present in the situation you are in, doing your best to accept what is. Become fully present with your pet as he is at the end of his or her life, and bring your presence and gratitude into the time you spend with your pet.
Acknowledge whatever state your pet’s physical body is in, and do your best to support and ease your pet – making him as comfortable as possible.
As you are fully present with your pet, focus on gratitude – express your gratitude by sharing with your pet fun and fond moments you had together, and how your pet changed and improved your life – how much he meant to you.
As you share this, see not only your pet’s weak physical body – see beyond and see the radiant light that your pet is. See your pet’s body and spirit filled with light and surrounded by light and love.
Communicate to your pet that whatever the next step is for him on his soul’s path, you are here to support him.
Fear might come up as your pet is about to ‘leave’, but see or imagine an opening into the spirit world – a place or state filled with light and love.
Your pet is about to shed his body and be birthed into the spirit realm.
What you are witnessing is not just an end, but also a beginning.
So while your pet’s death is cause for grief and sadness, it is also a cause for celebration: Celebration of your pet’s life in a physical body, and celebration of your pet’s new life in spirit.
Your connection with your pet will shift, but it will still be there. The bond you share is a bond that reaches beyond the physical; it is a bond of love, a bond of the heart and soul.
End by returning to your heart. In your heart that may feel broken is also a light – a steady light that shines now and forever. Your pet’s love will always be with you – and you can access that love in your heart.
Each day, besides acknowledging your grief, also ask yourself:
What one thing can I do today to celebrate my pet – my soul’s companion and forever friend?
Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Thank you Marianne. That was a great blog post. Yes we must remember to think of the celebration, not just the sadness.