It can be very difficult for others to understand how special and important your pet was to you. The bond formed between you is unique. There are so many happy memories and life enriching experiences.
When you lose a pet there are a range of emotional responses including denial, inability to accept the loss, intense tearfulness, disorientation, insomnia, disbelief, shock, loss of appetite, anger, guilt, isolation, depression, ruminating about the final days/hours, you feel like you never be the same again, like you are going crazy and that you cannot tolerate the pain.
There is no timetable for mourning a loss. You will mourn in proportion to the quality (not necessarily the length) and the significance of your relationship. Those whose animal friends were their only source of companionship may find it very difficult to move on. The routine and structure provided by caring for an animal - even one who is very ill - can leave a schedule empty and a home very lonely.
It is really helpful to find someone with whom you can share your feelings with, who you know understands the distress and anxiety you are going through.
In addition to the loss of your pet, you may have experienced other losses or feel that your pets death was your responsibility. It may be that you have never come to terms with the loss of a close family member. Any of these events can compound the distress you are already feeling.
The bond between you and your pet is hard to overstate. I can share those feelings with you and support you in understanding and in moving through the grieving process.
We can explore the decisions you had to take such as having to make a decision to put your pet to sleep, and deal with and come to accept unresolved issues. I will listen to you in a confidential, non judgemental, loving and empathetic environment. You are free to love, laugh, cry and learn how to adjust to the painful experience of loss.
You may feel confused and disorientated and unable to think clearly. That's ok, we all feel like that at times, and it's so helpful and healthy to express your feelings.
At its heart, its all about your wellbeing, your emotional health and a positive future.