With the loss of any pet, going through the grieving process is a natural way to deal with bereavement. Grief has at least four stages that each person must go through to come out on the other side: shock, yearning/searching, disorganization, and reorganization. Most grief is also accompanied by crying, guilt, lack of sleep, and disinterest in one’s self.

Additionally, nightmares and other sleep disorders, loss of appetite, and shortness of breath are normal symptoms of grief. However, complicated grief is exhibited when after a year or two, the grief worsens and is joined by odd behavior.

Dealing With Grief

If the grief seems overwhelming, the best thing to do might be to seek help. Private counseling is always a possibility with a licensed psychologist who specializes in grief counseling. Also, the CARE Helpline offers a toll-free phone number and trained personnel to help deal with the grief over the loss of an animal friend. Do remember that different people take different amounts of time and use different ways to work through the mourning process.

After the Grief

After the grief ebbs away, you may wish to consider getting another horse. Not to replace the one you have lost, because a new horse could never do that. But if your heart is ready to accept another animal as a friend, a horse could be the right choice for you.