Do you have pets? Have you ever lost a pet? Young or old, we become very attached to our furry friends. For many families, a pet is another member of that family. The loss of a pet can therefore be very painful. It may be especially difficult for young children whom have not yet experienced loss. It’s good to talk about the demise of a pet with your child. You can find children’s books on the death of a pet that may be helpful, but if your child is extremely distraught, you may want to ask your pediatrician for a recommendation. He or she may advise seeing a counselor.
It’s very sad for all involved when a beloved pet passes away. While it is not pleasant to talk about such things, it is important to know how to handle the situation. Much like making arrangements for a loved one can be traumatic, dispatching a pet’s remains can also be a difficult and painful process.
Some families hold funeral services for their dearly departed pets at home. It is important to wrap the remains very well, using heavy plastic, and then place the pet’s body into a container such as a heavy box or covered bin. Make sure to dig a deep enough grave, generally at least 3-4 deep. You don’t want strays or wild animals to catch the scent and possibly dig up the grave. You also don’t want the soil to wash away with the first rain and expose the container.
Also, keep in mind that in some areas there are ordinances against burying pets in the yard. Make sure that it is legal to provide a resting place for your pet near your home, before you begin the process. If not, look into cremation or a pet cemetery. There are professional services available to help you and your family through this difficult time.
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