Loss of a loved one is never easy, and for children, it’s even worse.
The loss of a beloved pet is a grieving time for the entire family, however, it tends to be particularly hard for small kids who may be encountering sudden death for the very first time in their lives.
Discussions around death will automatically happen, and little ones may start to pose a lot of intense inquiries.
Books can be an incredible asset for assisting youngsters with working through their feelings in the wake of their misfortune.
A great way for the parents to be able to talk the children out of their grief.
Here is a list of 10 Best Books to Deal with the Pet Loss for Children that highlights some truly magnificent books about pet loss that can assist kids with figuring out how to adapt to the pain.
They give kids space to feel their feelings, while telling them that the intense grief they feel will not keep going forever.
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These books are my personal recommendations, as I have found them of great help for kids to cope up with the loss of their pets.
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List of 10 Best Books to Deal with Pet Loss for Children
1. Paw Prints in the Stars: A Farewell and Journal for a Beloved Pet
by Warren Hanson
Paw Prints in the Stars: A Farewell and Journal for a Beloved Pet by Warren Hanson — Paw Prints in the Stars is an extremely special pet mourning book written in the voice of the pet that has passed. This book brings harmony and solace and commends the adoration and exercises learned. There is space for loved photographs and diary pages for most loved recollections just as a special strip to hold collar labels.
This book tends to reflect on the emotional relationship between a pet and the owner and is beautifully written in the style of a poem from the dog to its owner. This type of book will easily help you or your kids to get over the pain of losing a beloved pet. You can write down your memories with your pet during those beautiful days which you spent with your lovely pet. The kids can get overwhelmed with grief because they have known the pet for a long time and they don’t know how to deal with the loss of not having them around. You can suggest your kid write their memories even in this book, or maybe add pictures of them together to go through that happy lane again and cherish those days again. Nothing can replace the love around the pet, but this book can always help the kid to cope with the pain. Read More
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2. I’ll Always Love You
by Hans Wilhelm
I’ll Always Love You by Hans Wilhelm — It beautifully depicts a sad part of life touchingly. It is the sweetest and saddest little story for children depicting the power of love and friendship with their pets. This story deals with love and loss and takes you on an emotional journey of a little boy and his pet. Even though the journey is emotional, this book ends on a hopeful note. This book shows the meaning of love and compassion through the relationship of the child with his pet shows how loss happens and how you can cope up with the pain of losing a pet. It is beautifully written for kids.
This story manages to love and misfortune and takes you on a passionate excursion of a young man and his pet and would be a great book for parents to teach their kids to cope with the loss of a pet. This book deals with this sensitive topic in a very touching and realistic manner for every kid and parent to understand the emotions. No matter however the story is painful, this book closes on a hopeful note of love managing this touchy subject in an extremely touching and practical way for each child and guardian to comprehend the feelings. Read More
3. Cat Heaven
by Cynthia Rylant
“The road to Cat Heaven is a sweet meadow, where crickets and butterflies play!”
Cat Heaven by Cynthia Rylant — The writer through a delicate and lively rhyme made this beautiful book, Newbery Medalist Cynthia Rylant effectively investigates every one of the manners in which our dearest cats appreciate Cat Heaven, as she has likewise composed for dogs in her top of the line friend book, DOG HEAVEN. Her sparkling craftsmanship represents a universe of harmony for felines in Heaven, where there is no such tree which is excessively tall for investigating, where there is no absence of holy messengers’ laps for dozing for any creature.
This book deals with this tricky subject of an emotional ride for a child in an incredibly reaching and pragmatic way for every kid and teaches them to appreciate the sentiments. In the event that you are a parent and your kid has as of late confronted the regret of losing any pet and ponders where their kitty has followed a particularly cheerful glad life on Earth, they can have confidence that all cats. “Find out where the angel cats fly. They will run past the stars and the moon and the sun. To curl up with God in the sky.” Read More
4. The Rainbow Bridge…. a Dog’s Story
by Judith Kristen
The Rainbow Bridge…. a Dog’s Story by Judith Kristen — After an extremely unpleasant start in life as a doggy factory dog, Henley was saved and afterward embraced into a caring home. His life entirely changed and became a cheerful one after an immense struggle of early life. Heaps of youngsters accepted his story and his central goal to discover joyfully ever-afters for all our creature companions. Tragically, Henley’s own life reached a conclusion on March thirteenth, 2010, only three days after his twelfth birthday – yet his story proceeds.
In this book, this beloved dog teaches us indeed – presently from somewhere else – to assist the individuals who are stuck with having to endure the pain of departure of a pet and to provide them a feeling of a sense of finality. Indeed, the tears and misery are typical, feeling the misfortune is ordinary, as is pushing ahead – to respect that much-adored companion and pet. May this delicate sheepdog’s words bring you solace, grins, understanding, and motivation to praise rich recollections that live endlessly. Indeed, even in the most obscure of circumstances, you can discover the light…if you look in the correct spots. It will definitely help you visualize your memories with your beloved pet, who’s watching you from above. Read More
5. The Goodbye Book
by Todd Parr
The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr — Todd Parr has written this book from the perspective of a pet fish who has lost his partner, he continues to tell a moving and entirely open anecdote about bidding farewell. Addressing the host of feelings kids insight, Todd reminds perusers that it’s okay not to know every one of the appropriate responses and that somebody will consistently be there to help them. An important asset for life’s hardest minutes.
It clarifies a ton about the feelings anybody would feel during remorse and even gets at the possibility that pain is cyclic and not straight. It is certainly for youngsters who have encountered a passing as of now, as it is minimal in the clarification of what truly happens to the fish. You can definitely try this book out if you are someone or know someone who has lost a beloved pet. Nonetheless, the individuals who have lost a cherished pet could comprehend its hidden meaning. Read More
6. Saying Goodbye to Lulu
by Corinne Demas
Saying Goodbye to Lulu by Corinne Demas — A heart-warming story of a little girl and her adorable dog, Lulu, who are the best companions to each other and share every moment together. As Lulu, the dog, ages and begins to hinder in daily work the young little girl shows her empathy by making Lulu comfortable in her bed and assisting with taking care of her. The love between the both can be easily related by anyone who ever had a pet in their life and understands the love.
The book shows, at the point when Lulu passes on, the little girl must find her ways to walk out of the grief taking the beautiful memories with her always, she bravely handles her emotions and misfortune and figures how to bid farewell to her best companion with whom she had innumerable memories. This expressive and touching story will pull at the heartstrings, as the emotions can be heart-wrenching but all things considered, it’s a beautiful read for both youthful and old readers who had known the love of owning a pet ever in their life. Read More
7. Jasper’s Day
by Marjorie Blaine Parker
Jasper’s Day by Marjorie Blaine Parker — Marjorie Blain Parker’s delicate story is loaded up with emotions of love, tears, and the delight of exceptional recollections of beautiful memories, and Janet Wilson’s delicate pastels catch the profundity of affection shared by a kid and his dog through the illustrations. Both of them together is a treat to encounter. The book, and the characters through their emotional ride talk about love and acceptance that comes with it and also discuss acknowledgment, recognition, and the importance of each and every moment spent with the loved one, more so a pet.
Today Riley’s family is busy observing Jasper’s Day and they have planned to dedicate this day to their beloved Jasper, all that they will do will be out of appreciation for Jasper just like birthday celebrations. In any case, it isn’t Jasper’s birthday. The old dog’s health has been getting worse lately and truly downright terrible day by day. Riley realizes that they can’t allow him to endure any more, but he knows that giving up will be the hardest thing he’s always needed to do for anyone let alone for the loved pet, Jasper.
Reading Jasper will definitely bring back your tears out of the memory lane, which kids generally force deep inside them to not be overwhelmed by the emotions of grief. But this practice of facing the grief of their pet and resting those memories peacefully would free them of the remorse and would be a delightful experience for the kid. Read More
8. Lifetimes: A Beautiful Way to Explain Death to Children
by Brian Mellonie
Lifetimes: A Beautiful Way to Explain Death to Children by Brian Mellonie — This one is a beautiful children’s book explaining the cycle of life and death for all kinds of living things present in the surrounding, be it animals, plants, or humans. In this book, the words and the extensive illustrations show the basic reality of a lifespan that is birth, living, and death for any living organism. The striking part of this book is it doesn’t solely depend on sadness or grief but talks naturally about the process of life. Though death is a very harsh topic and for children, it is even harder to comprehend them through it, but this book does the job pretty satisfactory.
The idea of Death isn’t by and large talked about until there is an occasion and questions that follow. Whenever kids have moved past self to incorporate the attention to another, they will profit by the overall framework of the idea of death. This book uncovers through its straightforward content that “each has its own unique lifetime”.
This is a legit and practical clarification that all that lives, bites the dust at one place in time. It is very direct without failing to remember its crowd. Read More
9. The Tenth Good Thing About Barney
by Judith Viorst
The Tenth Good Thing About Barney by Judith Viorst — Judith Viorst has a touch of humor in her books especially when it’s about the frustrations a little kid has to go through but this book is on the serious side of events that is about death and emotions handled by a little child.
A lovely cat has to leave the nurturing of its owner and its heart-wrenching. The story is written from the perspective of the little child and how tough it is for the little kid to go through that phase of utter remorse and grief. The mother of the child suggests that the child should list down all of the things that made their pet, Barney special. The story shows how both the parents help the child through the process of grief and how it is normal for a child to feel those emotions for their pet.
This one is a wonderful book that tends to show the grieving process of a child losing a loved and nurtured precious pet cat and perfect for a child to deal with the pain and move on with the beautiful memories of their pet. Read More
10. Sammy in the Sky
by Barbara Walsh
Sammy in the Sky by Barbara Walsh — Sammy, the best dog in the entire world, adores his young owner and she as well cherishes him with her whole heart. At the point when sickness stops Sammy’s life, the little girl’s family decides to keep his soul alive by commending his adoration for pursuing breeze-blown air pockets, keeping a faithful watchman around evening time, and also offering his smooth hide for unlimited taps and belly scratches, these are all gestures of love and respect in his honor. Jamie Wyeth has also done an amazing job as an illustrator while depicting the whole essence of the narration imbued with his pragmatist style and long-lasting affection for dogs. It highlights the delight and trouble of each tongue-licking, a tail-swaying moment of love in this cheering and affectionately delivered story composed by Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Barbara Walsh and has done an amazing job while writing this. The end of this book is an excellent depiction of a beautiful closure.
Sincere and powerful, this book is about the demise of a family dog which is agonizing simultaneously heartfelt for a pet owner. The experience she depicts hit on each feeling that goes through an individual when they lose their adored pet. Read More
FAQs
How do I help my child grieve the loss of a pet?
The loss of a pet can be just as devastating to a child as any other kind of loss. In some ways, it may even be more difficult for children because of their inability to understand why their pet died. Many children may also feel guilty about what they could have done differently, or blame themselves for not protecting their pet from harm. When you’re helping your child grieve, try to offer reassurance that it wasn’t his fault and that he did everything he could do to save his pet.
Another way to help your child cope is by explaining how animals die and where they go after death. If you don’t know much about pets and death, consult a veterinarian for advice on how to talk with your kids about pet loss so that you have accurate information at hand should your children ask questions.
What to give a child who lost a pet?
Giving a child who has lost a pet something that reminds them of their pet is a thoughtful, touching gesture. A stuffed animal is always an appropriate choice—and if you’re crafty and make it yourself, it’s even better. Or, if you know their favorite toy was one they shared with their pet, give them a similar replacement from your local toy store or pet supply shop.
What does losing a pet do to a child?
Every child is different and will handle pet loss differently. Some might exhibit behavioral changes and may seem withdrawn, sad or angry. Be sensitive to your child’s feelings. If you see that he or she is grieving, don’t try to distract them from their pain—allow them to process it as they see fit, then help them through it.
How to deal with pet loss for children?
Do Remember That They Are Still Babies
Sometimes, pets are like family members. They can become an important part of your child’s life, and when a pet dies, it can be just as hard as losing a relative. There is no way around it: Your child will experience grief after your pet has passed away.
Be gentle and understanding if you see signs of stress in your child; listen attentively if he or she wants to talk about his or her feelings; and hug, kiss, hold hands – do whatever you feel comfortable doing.
Show that you care by being there – especially during difficult times.
Don’t worry about providing good explanations or advice right now; dealing with loss is difficult enough already.
In time, they will understand that death is inevitable but not final.
What does losing a pet do to a child?
Every child is different and will handle pet loss differently. Some might exhibit behavioral changes and may seem withdrawn, sad or angry. Be sensitive to your child’s feelings. If you see that he or she is grieving, don’t try to distract them from their pain—allow them to process it as they see fit, then help them through it.
Should you let a child see a dead pet?
The first step in helping your child deal with pet loss is to decide whether or not you will allow them to see their dead pet. Different people have different feelings about allowing their children to see a dead pet. While it can be a very traumatic experience, some feel that exposing children to death at an early age helps them learn how it happens and better understand why pets die.
What are some helpful tips for the grieving child?
You might feel awkward about approaching your children about their deceased pet, but it’s not only helpful, it can also be cathartic. Encourage them to share their feelings—it’s important that they don’t bottle up emotions when dealing with pet loss. It’s fine if they want to keep a few mementos of their beloved pet. They might even draw pictures or write poems as part of her healing process.
What are some important tips to help a child deal with the loss of a pet?
These are some of the important tips that can help a child deal with the loss of a pet:-
— Let your child witness that you are grieving for the loss of the pet.
— Make sure your child is aware that they aren’t the ones to blame for the death of their pet. It is essential to discuss the emotions and concerns of your child.
— Allow your child to be a part of any memorial service should they wish.
— If you can, offer your child the chance to create a keepsake of their pet.
— If you’ve decided to use the option of euthanasia, be open about it with the child. Engage them in the death process.
— Don’t rush out to buy your child a replacement pet before they’ve had the time to grieve for the loss.
Can books help to deal with the loss of a pet?
If a family pet dies or is lost, children are often upset and have lots of questions. Parents need to help them deal with their grief and find ways to answer their questions. It can be comforting for kids to read about how others handled similar situations.
This list of books will help families talk about loss, grieve together, and move on:-
– I’ll Always Love You
– Cat Heaven
– The Rainbow Bridge…. a Dog’s Story
– The Goodbye Book
– Saying Goodbye to Lulu
– Jasper’s Day
– Lifetimes: A Beautiful Way to Explain Death to Children
How to explain pet death to a 3 or 4-year-old?
Explain to your child that there is a big red bird in heaven who needs one of their animals. Tell them that you will give them a new animal, even bigger and better than their old one, as a gift from God. This way, you can ease their pain by letting them understand what happened.
Should a child say goodbye to a pet?
Goodbyes are hard for children, whether it’s saying goodbye to an old friend or a relative that just passed away. When it comes to pets and death, people often have different opinions on whether children should be there when a pet dies. The last thing you want is your child witnessing what could possibly be a traumatic situation.
If you’re unable (or unwilling) to separate them from their best friend during its final moments, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways you can ease your child through pet loss. You can also let them say goodbye in another way.
For example, many hospice facilities offer funerals for dogs, cats, and other beloved pets. Just make sure everyone is comfortable with the decision before moving forward; even if you think your child isn’t really dealing with his emotions about a lost pet, he might feel strongly about things years later that he doesn’t realize came from such a small event now.
It’s worth talking to him about it years down the road as well, so he doesn’t end up feeling abandoned by you or resentful over how things were handled then.
What are some good pet loss books for toddlers?
There are so many great books that can help children cope with grief over losing a pet. These books deal with loss and grief in a way that’s both comforting and compassionate, letting kids know that it’s okay to be sad and letting them see how other kids coped in similar situations.
What better way is there to help your child process their emotions than by reading one of these wonderful children’s books?
The following are some of our favorites when dealing with pet loss for children.
– The Goodbye Book
– Saying Goodbye to Lulu
– I’ll Always Love You
Can losing a pet cause depression in kids?
It is natural to have strong feelings when you lose a pet. Adults are just as upset when they lose a pet, especially one that has been around for many years. For kids, pets can be like siblings or best friends, and their loss may cause sadness and anger. A child’s response to losing a pet varies widely. Some children cry uncontrollably, while others act out by saying mean things about people or animals in general or having angry tantrums. Still other children shut down emotionally; they aren’t sad about their loss but won’t talk about it either (particularly if they had little contact with their pets). Young children grieve differently than adults, but all those emotions are normal—and parents should expect them in themselves as well as in their kids.
Do vets cry during euthanasia?
Yes, sometimes. Being a vet is one of the most difficult professions. It takes a lot of passion and dedication. Dealing with sick and injured animals on a daily basis can easily break you down. And if you’re going through something that could change your life forever, then it is obvious why it is hard not to cry in such situation.
How long does a grief usually last after losing a pet?
The grieving process will be different for every person. There is no set length of time that it takes a child to accept their pet’s death. Some children will deal with it in a few days, others may take several months. The way your child acts after their pet dies can give you an idea of how they’re feeling and what they need, but never assume you know exactly how they feel or when they’ll be done grieving. Every child deals with grief differently, and a timeline would only hinder your progress in comforting them during their loss.
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Conclusion
The passing of a pet is without a doubt probably the hardest thing for a kid to encounter.
Little kids create solid bonds with their pets and become close to their pets. It may very well be a cat or a hummingbird, or a hamster. They may see their pet as a companion, or somebody to impart privileged insights to.
The loss and departure of a particularly unique companion can be utterly devastating and difficult for the child to understand.
Every little kid deals differently with the loss of a pet but the parents remain in the constant dilemma of whether the child has recovered the grief or not.
At times, guardians stress that the kid has not managed their sentiments. These books would help them understand their emotions and as well as handling them with love and compassion.
You can visit Ohio State University’s website for more information.
If you have found a book that has helped you or your kid deal with these difficult times, you can always leave the name of the book in the comment section. We will surely include it in our list when we next update this article on 10 Best Books to Deal with the Pet Loss for Children.
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