Dealing with Loss
Many people are surprised at the powerful emotions that erupt afters a pet's death, and often they feel stupid by their grief. Remembering that pets have meaning in our lives beyond the love we feel for the pet alone may not help.
Considering the potentially long life span of many pet birds, you may be dealing with the loss of a companion you have known longer than any other. Grieving is natural.
Often adding to the sadness of such a loss is the fact that for some bird owners, the pet they lose may have been with the family for a generation. Some people feel closer to their pets then family members, this is not unusual.
Taking care of yourself is important. Some people - the "It's just a pet" crowd - won't understand your feelings and may even shrug them off believing your grief is foolish.
Even those who do understand such emotions may not appreciate the true loss you feel for a pet bird. You have to be a 'bird person' to understand.
Finding the company of other like minded people who share your love of birds will help. Share your feelings. The Internet is a wonderful place not only to find support but to place and share memorials.
Try to do something positive in memory of your pet. Perhaps plant a tree in your garden or make a donation to one of the many respected parrot charities such as the World Parrot Trust. This way other birds will benefit.
Your feelings of loss and grief will lessen, painful memories will in time become easier to bear and in time memories will become a source of comfort to you.
©2004