This article was written by Adam Dorsay, PsyD and by wikiHow staff writer, Janice Tieperman. Dr. Adam Dorsay is a licensed psychologist in private practice in San Jose, CA, and the co-creator of Project Reciprocity, an international program at Facebook's Headquarters, and a consultant with Digital Ocean’s Safety Team. He specializes in assisting high-achieving adults with relationship issues, stress reduction, anxiety, and attaining more happiness in their lives. In 2016 he gave a well-watched TEDx talk about men and emotions. Dr. Dorsay has a M.A. in Counseling from Santa Clara University and received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2008.
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Few things in life are as devastating as losing a beloved pet. When you know someone going through this tragic experience, how can you offer your support in the best way possible? Don’t worry—we’ve got your back. Read on for plenty of kind, caring ideas that you can include in your next conversation or sympathy card.
This article is based on an interview with our licensed psychologist, Adam Dorsay. Check out the full interview here.
Steps
Expert Q&A
Tips
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Make a donation to an animal shelter or pet charity in the name of your friend or loved one’s departed pet. They’re sure to be touched by your kind gesture![14]Thanks
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Encourage the person to write a eulogy for their pet. This is a great way to express exactly what their pet meant to them, and how grateful they are for having known them.[15]Thanks
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Offer to help your grieving friend or loved one in a specific way. Instead of saying “Let me know if you need anything,” offer to bring them food, take them out on a walk, or just spend some time with them.[16]Thanks
Warnings
- Steer clear of comments like “This is all part of God’s plan” or “You can always get another pet.” These statements tend to do more harm than good, and can seem hurtful and insensitive to someone who’s grieving.[17]Thanks
References
- ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/grief/helping-someone-who-is-grieving.htm
- ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/grief/helping-someone-who-is-grieving.htm
- ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/grief/helping-someone-who-is-grieving.htm
- ↑ https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/coping-death-your-pet
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/animal-attachment/201703/6-ways-say-i-care-friends-who-are-facing-pet-loss
- ↑ Adam Dorsay, PsyD. Licensed Psychologist & TEDx Speaker. Expert Interview
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/animal-attachment/201703/6-ways-say-i-care-friends-who-are-facing-pet-loss
- ↑ https://www.jmu.edu/counselingctr/self-help/grief/helping-a-grieving-friend.shtml
- ↑ Adam Dorsay, PsyD. Licensed Psychologist & TEDx Speaker. Expert Interview
- ↑ Adam Dorsay, PsyD. Licensed Psychologist & TEDx Speaker. Expert Interview
- ↑ Adam Dorsay, PsyD. Licensed Psychologist & TEDx Speaker. Expert Interview
- ↑ Adam Dorsay, PsyD. Licensed Psychologist & TEDx Speaker. Expert Interview
- ↑ Adam Dorsay, PsyD. Licensed Psychologist & TEDx Speaker. Expert Interview
- ↑ https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/coping-death-your-pet
- ↑ Adam Dorsay, PsyD. Licensed Psychologist & TEDx Speaker. Expert Interview
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/animal-attachment/201703/6-ways-say-i-care-friends-who-are-facing-pet-loss
- ↑ https://www.jmu.edu/counselingctr/self-help/grief/helping-a-grieving-friend.shtml
About This Article
Reader Success Stories
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"I have a few friends with pets, and when their pets do pass, it'll help to know how to handle the situation."