Recovering from the Loss of a Beloved Pet

But how do you recover?

Psychologists for the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement in New York City give this advice:

1. Have a small memorial service. It will be very therapeutic.

2. Recall happy memories of your pet with others who knew him.

3. Give yourself permission to grieve. Stress and fatigue are results of denial.

4. Talk about it with those who share your love of animals.

5. Recognize that this pet can never be replaced, but leave yourself open for a new pet when you are ready.

6. Eat well, get enough sleep and exercise.

7. Remember your pet loved you and was one of the lucky animals.

8. Tell kids the truth. Say the pet died, not that it was put to sleep or went to heaven, says Dr. Wallace Sife, author of The Loss of a Pet (Howell Book House).

9. Think of your other pets. Animals view death as a natural thing. Writing in Prevention , Sife says letting them sniff the body lets them know what has happened so they won't be looking for their friend.