Articles Of Interest

March 5, 2020

The Loss of a Pet

A recent article by Dr. Alan Wolfelt, an expert on grief, explored why some people experience deep grief with the loss of a pet. Unlike some nations, in America, 84% of people consider their pets to be a member of the family. Dr. Wolfelt’s article cites a survey that indicates that 99 percent of pet owners talk to their pets, and 54 percent celebrate their pet’s birthday. We even have greeting cards specifically for pets.

 

When an animal, who is considered a family member dies, families experience a significant loss. But society doesn’t provide for the same acknowledgement of mourning as it does when a human member of the family dies. Some who may not have experienced the same special bond with pets may dismiss your grief. Others may consider animals to be easily replaceable and encourage you to go out and get another pet right away in order to help with your grief.

 

Before you bring another pet into the family, realize that everyone needs time to grieve and heal after a pet dies. Like with any loss, each person has their own timeline and ways that they move through the process of grief, some faster than others.

 

Truth be told, we may have more interactions and daily routines that we develop with our pets than the humans in our lives. Since we are responsible for their care, we spend a great deal of time walking them, playing and feeding them. Our interactions with pets become ingrained in the fabric of our lives and when they die our daily routine is disrupted, a constant reminder of the loss.

 

As with human death, acknowledging the loss in a tangible way helps start the healing process. There’s no rule that says you can’t have a funeral for a pet. Consider ways that will help your family gather and pay tribute to a pet who was loved. Be sure to involve your children and allow them to grieve for their pet. Any child old enough to love is old enough to grieve and many children have very special bonds with their pets.

 

Dr. Wolfelt explains, “You may not experience the same depth of loss as your children when a family pet dies. Your response during this time can make the difference whether children’s first exposure to death will be a positive or a negative part of their personal growth and development.”

Funeral Service as a Celebration of a Life Well-Lived

By Ruthanna Gordon • November 25, 2025
Honoring a loved one’s life is about more than saying goodbye. It's a meaningful time to reflect on the moments, relationships, and contributions that shaped their story.

Honoring Heroes: Funeral and Memorial Service Options for Veterans

By Ruthanna Gordon • September 25, 2025
When a loved one has served our country, their farewell deserves to be as meaningful as their life of service. At Buch Family of Funeral Homes, we are honored to help families plan services that reflect both the courage of their military service and the love they shared in everyday life.

The Importance of Self-Care During Grief

By Ruthanna Gordon • July 28, 2025
Self-care during grief may not always come naturally. But taking small, intentional steps to tend to your physical and emotional well-being can make the journey more bearable—and even allow healing to begin.

Choosing A Funeral Home That Meets Your Needs

By Ruthanna Gordon • May 30, 2025
We understand the importance of finding a place that not only meets your logistical needs but also feels like a trusted partner in a deeply personal journey.

The Benefits of Pre-Arranging Your Funeral

By Ruthanna Gordon • March 18, 2025
Give your loved ones the gift of peace of mind by pre-planning your funeral.

Understanding Different Types of Funeral Services

By Ruthanna Gordon • February 12, 2025
Choosing the right funeral service is a personal journey, and understanding your options can help you craft a heartfelt tribute to your loved one.

Grieving the Loss of a Pet

August 22, 2024
Pets are such a special source of friendship, joy, unconditional love and companionship.

Helpful Tips On What To Write In A Sympathy Card

June 28, 2024
Struggling to find the right words when sending a sympathy card?

The Basics Of Death Certificates Explained

February 20, 2024
Most people don’t give much thought to death certificates until they have a death in the family. A death certificate is the permanent legal record needed to prove that a person has actually died.

You Can Still Find Reasons To Give Thanks During Thanksgiving

October 13, 2023
Bring their memory to the table Serve up a tasty reminder by preparing some of your loved one’s favorite recipes. Give a Thanksgiving toast or prayer that acknowledges the role that they played in your family’s lives. Consider creating a centerpiece made up of mementos from their life for the table. Or go around the table and ask each person to share something they are grateful for about the person who has died. Do something together to honor their memory There are many Thanksgiving Day events that your family can participate in to honor your loved one’s memory. Sign up for a turkey trot or charity walk. Watch one of their favorite movies together. Attend a remembrance service. Donate food or money in their name. Help to serve a Thanksgiving meal to families in need. Continue to share your memories Every family has their favorite stories and memories that they tell that highlight the unique personalities of each member. Be sure to continue sharing your memories and reminisce about those that you have lost. Whether it’s at the dinner table or during the football game, simply talking about your loved one is often what we need most after a loss. Accept that this Thanksgiving will be different. Try to find the balance between moments of grief and moments of joy. Listen to your intuition and only do what you can manage. Taking care of yourself is the most important thing. Grief is hard and tiring. Get plenty of sleep and give yourself permission to let in some joy this Thanksgiving.