Losing a pet is never easy, but it can be even trickier when you have a child who hasn't experienced this type of loss before. Before settling on a pet headstone to memorialize your furry friend, here are some ways to help your little one through this difficult time.
3 Tips for Speaking With a Child After the Death of a Pet
1. Be Honest
School-aged children have the ability to understand the basic concept of death, so don’t make up a complicated story about what happened. Explain that they passed away and won’t be coming back.
Feel free to use religious language if your family practices a particular faith. Then, ask if they have any questions and answer everything honestly without using any graphic or upsetting language.
2. Talk About Feelings
Even if your child clearly understands and accepts what happened, they’re likely to feel sad about it. Tell them that it’s okay and even healthy to feel upset since it means they truly loved their pet.
Explain that you feel the same to help them feel less isolated in their emotions. Over time, their feelings will become less intense, but make them feel comfortable expressing them as they grieve.
3. Honor Your Pet
It can be healing to get the family together to remember and memorialize your pet. You could put a monument or stone with their name on it near their favorite backyard tree, frame a photo of them above the mantel, or host an event where everyone shares their favorite stories. Ask your child how they’d like to remember your pet and find something that works for the whole family.
If you’re looking for a pet headstone, McGee Monument will help. Based in Morrilton, AR, this company offers custom monuments for all loved ones, including pets. They work with families to create designs that truly honor the deceased, and their quality materials ensure each monument lasts for generations. Visit the website to see examples of their work. To request a quote for a pet headstone, call (800) 750-0177.
Main Location:
105 Ward Dr,
Morrilton, AR 72110