What Grief After Pet Loss Really Feels Like (And Why You’re Not Broken)
If you’re grieving the loss of a beloved pet, you may be feeling things you didn’t expect. You might feel like you’re falling apart. You may feel exhausted, angry, numb, or overwhelmed by waves of sadness that show up without warning.
And worst of all, you might be wondering if something is wrong with you for feeling this way.
Let me say this gently but clearly:
You’re not broken. You’re grieving.
And grieving the loss of a pet is real, valid, and often deeply painful.
Why Pet Loss Grief Hurts So Much
Our pets are more than animals. They’re companions, soulmates, emotional support systems, and the keepers of our routines. They see us through heartbreaks, life changes, lazy Sundays, and hard mornings. When they go, they take with them a version of our daily life—and a piece of our heart.
The depth of pain you feel isn’t a reflection of weakness.
It’s a reflection of the love and bond you shared.
What Grief Really Feels Like
(It’s Not Just Sadness)
Grief isn’t just crying or missing your pet. It’s a whole-body, whole-life experience. Here are just a few ways grief after pet loss might show up:
Emotional rollercoasters – One minute you’re okay, and the next, a photo or a certain silence in your home sends you spiralling.
Guilt – You may question every decision you made, especially if you had to make the impossible choice of euthanasia.
Anger – At yourself, at vets, at the universe, even at your pet for leaving.
Loneliness – The absence of daily routines like feedings, walks, or bedtime cuddles can feel crushing.
Brain fog – You might feel distracted, forgetful, or like you’re moving through a fog.
Physical symptoms – Headaches, fatigue, nausea, and sleep disruption are common.
Doubt – Wondering if others will understand, or if you’re “allowed” to grieve this deeply.
Grief is as individual as your relationship was. There is no “right” way to feel, and no deadline to be “over it.”
Why You’re Not Broken
(Even If You Feel Like You Are)
Our culture doesn’t always acknowledge pet loss as “real grief.” That can leave you feeling unsupported or even embarrassed for struggling. But the truth is: grief is a normal, healthy response to loss. It means you loved deeply.
You’re not overreacting.
You’re not weak.
You’re not being dramatic.
You’re human—and you’re hurting because you mattered to each other.
There’s no timeline for healing. Grief isn’t a straight path, and you don’t have to “move on” to honour your pet. In fact, many people find comfort in continuing a relationship with their pet through memory, ritual, or storytelling.
How to Support Yourself Through Pet Loss Grief
Here are a few gentle ways to care for yourself right now:
Allow your feelings – There’s no emotion too big or small. Let it be there without judgment.
Reach out – Talk to someone who understands, whether it’s a friend, a grief coach, or a support group.
Create rituals – Light a candle, make a photo book, or write letters to your pet.
Honour their legacy – Volunteer, donate, or plant something in their memory.
Take care of your body – Eat, rest, drink water. Grief takes a toll, even if it’s invisible.
Be gentle with yourself – Healing takes time, and it doesn’t look the same every day.
You Are Still Whole, Even in Grief
Grief after pet loss doesn’t mean you’re broken—it means you loved. And that love doesn’t disappear when your pet is gone. It stays with you, changes form, and continues in memory, story, and heart.
So if you’re wondering whether what you’re feeling is normal, if it’s too much, or if you’re grieving “wrong,” please hear this:
You’re grieving just right.
You’re not broken.
You’re deeply human.
And your grief is a reflection of a bond that was real, is real, and always will be.
💖 Need a Compassionate Place to Talk About Your Grief?
At Paw and Soul, I offer one-on-one pet loss grief support to help you navigate this tender journey with care, patience, and understanding.
You don’t have to do this alone.
