Grief Doesn’t Have a Timeline

Pet loss grief doesn’t follow a schedule. Learn why your healing process may ebb and flow, and how to find gentle comfort as you navigate life after loss.

Grief Isn’t Linear – and That’s Okay

When we lose a beloved pet, the world can feel strangely unchanged, yet completely different. The bed they used to sleep on is still in the corner. Their collar might still hang by the door. But the sound, the presence, the heartbeat – is missing.

In the early days, the pain can feel sharp and overwhelming. Over time, it may soften, only to return unexpectedly in wages. Many pet owners wonder, “Shouldn’t I be over this by now?” The truth is, there’s no such thing as “over it”. There’s only through it.

Grief isn’t a straight line. It’s a spiral that loops back on itself – often when we least expect it.

The Love That Never Leaves

Pets weave themselves into our daily routines and our emotional world. Their absence leaves not just silence, but a shift in how we move through life. Missing them months or years later doesn’t mean you’re failing to heal – it means you shared something worth missing.

Every time you think of them, every tear or smile that surfaces, is another reflection of the love you carry. Grief is not a sign of weakness; it’s love with nowhere to go.

Finding Gentle Ways to Cope

Healing from pet loss doesn’t mean forgetting – it means finding new ways to honour that love.

• Light a candle in their memory.

• Take a walk in their favourite place.

• Write them a letter or talk to them out loud.

• Keep a “memory box” with their photo and a few cherished items.

There’s no wrong way to grieve. There’s only what helps you heal.

You Don’t Have to Walk This Alone

If your grief feels heavy, you’re not alone. Many people find it comforting to speak with others who understand pet loss – whether that’s a friend, a support group, or a certified pet loss counsellor.

At Horizon Palliative Vets, our compassionate team is here to listen and help connect you with the right resources and support. Please reach out if you need a gentle ear or guidance on where to begin.