The pet owner experiences grief, anger, guilt, and denial, the same feelings attributed to dealing with the death of a human friend or relative. Those who live without human companionship in their household often grieve more deeply over the loss of a pet. And, the often-resulting guilt about choosing to end a pet's suffering is a normal emotion not quickly overcome. Perhaps the most important step in the healing process is discussing your feelings with an understanding friend. Keeping busy helps to lessen grief.
Some people find it helpful to acquire a new pet as soon as possible, while others choose to wait.
Some never acquire another pet, fearing the grief of losing another dear friend. The Rainbow Bridge Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.