Unconditional Love Between Pets and Children

The death of a family pet may be the most traumatic loss your children face. Young children develop very strong and deep feelings about the animals in their lives. They may think of them as siblings, companions, playmates and protectors.

Unconditional Love Exists Between Pets and Children

A few years ago, I was writing an article on resilient children called "Be A Bounce Back KId." as part of the research I interviewed a dozen 5th grade and younger children about what they did to bounce back from a disappointment or a particularly bad time in their lives.

I was very surprised to find that the number one comfort for the kids was pets and animals. Those who had live pets in their lives or neighborhood would go to them for comfort and companionship. Those that did not have live pets, had a stuffed animal which represented comfort for them.

Many expressed the belief that the animals loved them unconditionally. It did not matter if they got a D in school or wasn't chosen for the school play. Their dog was happy to see them anyway. Laughing and playing with the pet helped them to bounce back from the bad day.

Common Concerns of Children Around the Loss of a Pet


Was it my fault for not feeding him last week?
Will he come back?
Where did he go?
Where is he right now (May want to see the body or find out where it is)
If I get sick, will you have the doctor give me a shot to make me die?
What if I go to sleep and don't wake up?
What if I forget him?
Why did God want him, he was our dog.

Parents and Other Caring Adults Teach Coping Skills

Our tendency is to try to protect small children from the harsh realities of life. However, by not acknowledging our own mourning and sadness, the child may feel less inclined to share his concerns and feelings.

They may need you to show them how to verbalize their feelings. Perhaps you can do something together that will help your child work through the emotions of grief. and remember the happy times. A good idea that has worked for others is to plant a flower, write a letter or draw a picture of playing with the pet.

You are invited to go to http://www.deathofmypet.com for more information on helping children cope with losing a pet or other death in the family. You will find specific ages and stages of understanding of children.

(c) Judy H. Wright http://www.ArtichokePress.com You have permission to reprint this article in your blog, ezine or offline magazine as long as you keep the content and contact information intact. Thank You.