Let’s Talk About Pet Loss

As a pet photographer, one thing I have observed in this journey is that people are often caught off guard by the intense grief and pain they experience after the loss of pet…and there seems to be a lot of shame attached to feeling such intense emotion.

Many people approach me after the loss of their pet, choking back tears, apologizing, saying, “I know he/she is just a dog, but…” and I have to stop them right there.

It’s not “just a dog” that you’ve lost- it’s a family member. The pain you are feeling is real and palpable. Every emotion you’re feeling is valid and there is no shame in feeling that way. In fact, it’s important to openly discuss the grief you’re feeling and get your feelings out in the open, just as you would if you lost a human family member- it’s part of the healing process. As you navigate this loss, it’s important to give yourself time and space to process your feelings!

Resources for Coping

If you have children, it’s important to talk with them about their feelings and grief as well. When my family lost our beloved Boston Terrier, Betsy, my children were absolutely devastated. It helped to sit with them and encourage them to cry and talk about their favorite memories, but we also watched THIS episode of Mister Roger’s Neighborhood which really seemed to bring them comfort.

For more resources on coping with pet loss, please visit:

Pets Are Family - Pet Loss (petsdeath.com)

For more information on legacy portraits for aging or terminal pets, visit:

www.cheyennechavez.com/senior-legacy-portraits