Home Healing from Loss Losing A PetWhat happens to pets after they die?
by Kitty Walker, LMSW-ACP
Dear Kitty,
First of all I would like to say that I greatly admire what you do to help people with loss, grief, and the wonderful advice that you give. Second, I had a dog for 7 years, her name was Santa and for as long as I can remember she was always by my side. I am 16 years old now, and just yesterday my little beloved poodle died of diabetes complications. I have been crying all night and thank God for your site and the Internet, I would go insane if it weren't for them! But I cannot imagine life without my dog.
It is so hard to cope with the loss. I have thought of getting another one to heal the pain but I don't know what impact it would have. I am willing to give it time though... And I have one question for you... what do YOU think happens to pets when they die? Do they go to heaven? Do they reincarnate or live another life? Or are they always beside you? I have never come this close to death before and since my dog basically died in my arms I have all these questions in my head that won't go away. Please help. Thank you so much for listening. I will be waiting for your response. Bye
Brokenhearted
Dear Brokenhearted,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences for the loss of your precious Santa. Seven years is a long time to give your heart to an animal, and I know it must be very hard to be going through living without her.
In addressing your question as to what I think happens to pets after they die, I would have to say that I have pondered all of the possibilities you mentioned. I currently believe that if there is a heaven at all, then surely our most beloved creatures are there awaiting us. I also believe that they are with us and a part of us throughout our life on earth, just as human loved ones who die before us are part of us until we also take our earthly departure. Love is the special gift we receive from our animal companions, and love never dies.
I feel certain that you can sense the presence of Santa, even though her physical body is no longer there with you. Your memory of her shall always be with you as something to cherish, and in a spiritual sense, she will always be by your side.
My Best to You,
Kitty
Ask Kitty is a psychotherapist specializing in grief and loss issues which humans encounter when their pets die. She has worked in this area for a number of years, providing counseling to people at this special time of need. She also provides consultation and education to employees of veterinary clinics in her area.
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