Grief is something we all face at some point in life. It’s a part of being human. This guide is here to help you understand grief in a way that feels real and relatable.
We’ll look at what grief is, how it works in our minds and hearts, and how it can show up in everyday life. Insights shared here come from trusted places like Psychology Today and the American Psychological Association, but we’ve kept everything simple and easy to take in.
What Is Grief, Really?
Grief is the deep feeling we get when we lose something important. Most often, we think of grief after losing someone we love. But grief can also come from other kinds of loss—a broken relationship, losing a job, or even leaving a home.
You might grieve a pet, a friend, a family member, or even the life you used to have. Whatever the loss, your feelings are real. And they matter.
“Grief isn’t just emotional—it’s physical too. According to the American Psychological Association, it can affect your sleep, energy, and even how your body feels.
The Stages of Grief
You may have heard of the stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. These stages were first talked about by Elizabeth Kübler-Ross.
But grief doesn’t follow a neat path. You might feel angry one day, then okay the next, and then suddenly sad all over again. That’s normal.
Here in Arizona, where many of us value close family ties, strong friendships, and time spent with pets or nature, these losses can hit hard. Don’t rush yourself. Everyone’s journey through grief is different.
5. Grieving for Our Animal Companions
Why Losing a Pet Hurts So Much
If you’ve ever lost a pet, you know how deep that pain can go. Our pets aren’t just animals—they’re family. They greet us when we come home. They comfort us when we’re sad. They give love without asking for much in return.
Here in Arizona, where many of us enjoy the outdoors with our dogs or care for our animals like kin, that bond runs deep. So when a pet passes away, it can feel like your heart’s been broken. And that grief? It’s real.
- Here in Arizona, many communities offer pet loss support. For those in Phoenix and surrounding cities, All Animals Rescue offers compassionate and affordable pet cremation and burial services.
Some people may not get it. They might say, “It was just a dog,” or “You can get another cat.” But we know better. The love between a person and their pet is strong, and losing that love can hurt just as much as losing a person.
The Special Kind of Grief That Comes With Pet Loss
Grieving a pet is different. Most people don’t bring casseroles or send sympathy cards. There’s no big ceremony. That can make the pain feel even lonelier.
And if you’ve ever had to make the hard decision to put a pet to sleep, that brings a different kind of heartbreak. Even when you know it’s the kindest choice, it can still hurt, and you might carry guilt along with your grief.
- Here is a guideline on safely storing a deceased pet overnight from our practical step-by-step guide blog article.
In Arizona communities, where pets are part of our families and even our way of life, we need to support each other through this kind of loss. Talk to someone. Share memories. Light a candle. Do whatever helps you heal.
The Bond Between People and Pets
The bond we share with our pets is strong. It’s more than just owning an animal—it’s a true connection. Our pets give us love without judgment. They keep us company and help us feel safe and loved.
This bond can lift our spirits and make tough days feel a little easier. Scientists say it even releases a “love hormone” in our brains—oxytocin. That’s the same hormone that helps people feel close and happy.
So, when we lose a pet, it hits hard. That deep connection is suddenly gone, and it leaves a hole in our hearts.
Kids and the Loss of a Pet
When a child loses a pet, it can be their first time facing death. They may not fully understand what’s happening, but they feel the sadness just the same.
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Help your child heal by reading our guide on how to support children after losing a pet.
Here in Arizona, where pets are often part of every family adventure—hiking trails, backyard play, and bedtime snuggles—their absence is felt in every part of daily life.
It’s important to talk to kids honestly and gently. Use simple words they can understand. Let them ask questions. Let them cry. And most of all, let them grieve in their own way.
Helping them say goodbye, maybe with a little ceremony or a drawing, can bring comfort. The grieving process matters.
“Help your child heal by reading this guide from the Child Mind Institute on how to support kids through loss.
Different Kinds of Pet Loss
Losing a Dog
Losing a dog is especially hard. Dogs are loyal to the very end. They’re always happy to see us. They go on walks with us. They sit by our side when we’re feeling low.
In Arizona, where dogs often join us on hikes or hang out in the yard while we watch the sunset, their presence is part of our everyday life. When they’re gone, everything feels different.
You might miss their bark, their tail wag, or the sound of their paws on the floor. It’s not just the loss of a pet—it’s the loss of a best friend. Following the death of a loved one, the house may feel empty.
Losing a Cat
Cats have a special way of being close without making a fuss. They curl up beside us, purr softly, and bring a calm kind of comfort to our lives.
So when a cat passes away, it leaves a big silence in the house. You might still look for them on the windowsill or expect them to jump on your lap. That quiet absence can be just as painful as losing any other family member.
In Arizona homes, where many cats nap by sunny windows or keep us company on peaceful evenings, their loss is deeply felt. It’s okay to mourn them. That grief is real.
Birds, Rabbits, and Small Pets: Tiny Friends, Big Hearts
Birds, rabbits, guinea pigs—small pets like these often get overlooked when it comes to grief. But anyone who’s loved one of these animals knows how special they are.
They may be small, but their personalities shine. Maybe your bird sang every morning. Maybe your rabbit had a funny little hop. These memories matter.
If someone tells you, “It was just a small pet,” remember that the bond was real. And so is your grief. Here in Arizona, many families raise and care for these pets with love, and when they’re gone, it’s a real loss.
Exotic Pets and Farm Animals
Some people care for exotic pets, like reptiles, parrots, or even tarantulas. Others raise goats, horses, or chickens on small farms or ranches.
These animals may not be traditional pets, but they can still feel like part of the family. Their care takes time, patience, and love. And through that, a deep connection forms.
When one of these animals passes, the grief is real—even if others don’t understand it. In rural parts of Arizona or homes where these animals are part of daily life, the loss can be just as heavy.
Don’t hold back your feelings. It’s okay to miss them, talk about them, and take time to heal.
Finding Your Way Through Grief
Grief is personal. Some days feel heavy. Others bring a little peace. Both are normal.
Grief isn’t a straight path. There are ups and downs. But you’re not alone.
Helpful Resources for Grief
If you’re feeling lost, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to handle it all by yourself.
There are books, websites, and support groups that can help. Trusted sources like Psychology Today and the American Psychological Association offer simple, helpful info.
- Not sure if cremation or burial is right for you? See our breakdown of pet after-care options.
Talking to a counselor can make a big difference, too. Sometimes, just being heard helps more than you’d think.
A Word of Comfort for Those Who Are Grieving
If you’re grieving, it’s okay. It’s okay to cry, to feel tired, angry, or numb. These feelings show how deeply you loved.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will I feel this way (grief)?
Honestly? There’s no timeline. Some days might feel a little easier, then the next day hits you hard again. That’s normal. Grief doesn’t work in a straight line. Take it one day at a time.
I had to put my pet down. Why do I feel so guilty?
That feeling is more common than you think. Even when it’s the kindest choice, it still hurts. You made that decision out of love, and that love is real. It’s okay to feel sad and unsure—you gave your pet peace.
How can I help my kid deal with losing our pet?
Keep it simple and honest. Let them talk, let them cry, and don’t rush their feelings. Maybe draw pictures together, or make a little goodbye ceremony. Kids grieve differently, but they still feel it deeply.
Is it normal to go from sad to angry to okay, then back to sad again?
Totally. That’s grief. It comes in waves. You might feel okay one moment and crushed the next. That doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong—it just means you’re human.
Why do I feel so tired and heavy since my pet died?
Grief isn’t just emotional—it’s physical too. It can drain your energy, mess with your sleep, and make even small things feel hard. Be gentle with yourself. Rest when you need to.
Should I get another pet right away?
Only if you feel ready. Some people want to fill that quiet space quickly, others need more time. There’s no right or wrong—just go with what feels good in your heart.
Why do some people act like it’s not a big deal?
Honestly, some folks just don’t get it. But that doesn’t mean your grief isn’t real. If someone says, “It was just a dog,” you don’t have to explain yourself. You know how much it meant.
What’s something I can do to remember my pet?
There are so many little ways. These 5 amazing pet memorial ideas guide shares beautiful ideas to remember your pet—light a candle, plant a tree, or create a small memorial.
Is it okay if I’m still crying weeks later?
Absolutely. There’s no expiration date on grief. Cry when you need to. Talk when you’re ready. The love was real—and that’s what makes the tears real too.
