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Written by: Aurora James of Dogetiquette.info

Losing a pet is never easy. They become part of the family, and their loss is devastating. It’s natural and healthy to want to move on, but if you’re considering bringing a new pet to your home after losing a beloved furry friend, Pet-Tek has a few things to keep in mind about the process of grieving, choosing a new pet, and adjusting to new life together.

Allow Yourself Time To Grieve Before Jumping In

If you rush into getting a new pet, you may not be making the best decision for yourself or the animal. You may also find it difficult to form a bond if you’re still grieving. Accessing mental health support can be wise if you’re still mourning. It’s convenient, secure, private, and less of a commitment to access mental health services virtually. 

Find a therapist who makes you feel comfortable and who you feel confident can help you work through your grief. You can choose from a wider variety of licensed professionals when you see an online therapist. You can also save time on travel and pay less for the services. Additionally, many therapists offer complimentary consultations to determine if you’re a good match.

Don’t be afraid to give yourself time between pets. Losing a pet can be very stressful, and it’s wise to afford yourself the time to grieve. As you work through your feelings, clear negative energy out of your home. It’s good practice to rid your home of clutter that blocks positive energy, and smudging with sage may help as well.

How To Choose a New Pet

Do your research. A lot of different animals are out there, and it’s important to choose one that fits nicely into your lifestyle and personality. Consider adopting from a local shelter or rescue organization. Plenty of deserving animals need homes, and by adopting from a shelter, you’ll give an animal a second chance at life.

Adjusting to Life With Your New Pet

Adjusting to life with a new pet can be a challenge, but you can take some simple steps to make the transition smoother for both you and your new companion:

  • Give yourself time to adjust. Getting used to having a new pet in the house can take time, so don’t expect things to be perfect immediately. Give yourself time to get used to your new routine, and be patient as you and your pet get to know each other.
  • Create a safe space. Pets need a place to feel safe and secure, so create a comfortable space in your home. This could be creating or setting up a small room or area with all their supplies.
  • Establish rules and boundaries. Establishing rules and boundaries from the start is essential, so your pet knows what’s expected of them. This helps prevent behavioral problems down the road. 

As you adjust to life with your new pet, remember the importance of self-care. Stress, particularly that associated with work, can negatively affect animals. Plan to work from home some days, or arrange for a pet sitter to visit occasionally. This reduces stress for you and your companions and ensures the best possible life for your pet.

Easing the Pain

Losing a pet is never easy, but adding a new furry friend to your family can help ease the pain. Give yourself time to grieve, do your research, and be patient as you adjust to life with your new companion. With a bit of time and care, you’ll be able to build a strong bond with your new pet.

Pet-Tek is a family-owned business providing high quality, reasonably priced supplements to keep your pets happy and healthy. Call 780-217-9966.