At iHeartDogs.com, we often write about how to deal with the loss of a beloved pet. We do this because we understand that saying goodbye is one of the hardest things you’ll ever have to do and we hope that somehow our words can bring a little peace of mind. iron. Having experienced the love and compassion of dogs and cats throughout their lives, I believe they will want us to keep these 6 important messages close to our hearts after they’re gone.
1. They understand your sadness, but would rather see you happy
When we’re upset, our pets feel it. They seem to know what we need, whether it’s an overflowing kiss, gentle kitten pats, or just to feel their presence at our side. After they pass away, it is the times when their absence is most painful. Remember that although they shared our pain, they also shared our joy. Their greatest happiness is sharing our happy moments, and that is what they want for us in the future.
2. They know you love them and did the best you could for them
Our pets feel our love for them in everything we do. From our voices to the gentle way we stroke their hair. They see our past flaws and insecurities towards the people we really are inside. They don’t need hundreds of customized dog toys and bedding to sense how much we care. To them, we are perfect, no matter what circumstances we struggle with in their lives.
RELATED: 50 unique gifts or keepsakes for someone who lost a pet
3. They don’t want you to regret it
We hoped that our pets would live long, full lives free of pain or disease until the end of their time, but unfortunately that is not the case. Whether they passed quietly in the arms of old age, or passed away too soon, they cherish every moment and don’t want to think that we feel guilty or regret the time we spent together.
4. They know you’ll be there for them every second if you can
It’s normal to look back after losing a pet and wish we had spent more time showing them how much they were loved. Maybe we’ve been working too hard or skipping our daily walk from time to time. Our pets don’t judge us for our choices, but they certainly appreciate our sacrifices.
Related: Looking for some thoughtful pet memorial to keep their memory alive?
5. They love you more than you can understand
Our pets are so devoted to us so sincerely and unselfishly that it is almost beyond our understanding. Many people have happily sacrificed their lives for their people. How hard it is to say goodbye, knowing the depth of that love can help us find the strength to move forward.
6. Loving another animal is not a betrayal but a way to honor their memory
One of the greatest things about dogs and cats is that they have no selfish agenda. They simply want us to be happy. After they pass away, our pets will want us to experience that unconditional love again – especially if it means transforming another life the way we did with them.
RELATED: 3 Great Ways to Honor a Dead Dog
Featured images via Facebook / TheCrewBobino
