Do not share any details with your child that may be traumatic. For example, do not describe the cause of your pet’s death to your child. [2] X Research source
For example, your child may ask if euthanasia is like killing the animal. Do your best to provide honest answers to your child, but do not go into too much detail to avoid upsetting your child.
Keep in mind that people respond to death in a variety of different ways. Even if your child seems fine, he or she may be working through a wide range of confusing emotions.
Allow your child to express his or her feelings while you listen. Offer a shoulder to cry on if your child begins to cry. Reassure your child that these emotions are difficult now, but they will get better over time. After you have finished talking, give your child a hug.
For example, if your child is worried that more could have been done to save the life of the pet, reassure your child that the veterinarian did all that he or she could to save the pet’s life.
For example, if your child asks questions the afterlife of animals, you may want to use the teachings of your spiritual background to help inform your answer, or you may choose to leave this more open ended and say, “I’m not sure. ” You can explain what some people believe, and if you’re undecided about what happens, you can tell this to your child. Then you can share with your child a picture of what you hope the pet is experiencing right now, such as having all the doggie bones he can eat without getting a bellyache, and miles of soft grass and sunshine. Some questions you should answer in a definite, clear way. For example, if your child asks whether or not the pet suffered when he died, then you should be honest, but aim to comfort your child. You might say something like, “Fido was in pain when he went to see the veterinarian, but the veterinarian gave him some medicine to help the pain go away before he died. ”
Constant sadness. Ongoing sadness (more than a month). Difficulty in school. Trouble sleeping or other physical symptoms that started after the death of your pet.
You can guide your child through the process by sitting nearby and offering support if he or she wants advice on what to draw or what to say in the letter. After your child has drawn a picture or composed a letter, invite your child to put it somewhere special, such as on the pet’s grave or in a favorite sleeping spot.
