How to Cheer Up After a Pet Dies

The death of a pet can be devastating because many people are attached to their pets and consider them to be a member of the family. You may experience emotions, such as anger, denial and guilt, and your sorrow may be so overwhelming that you end up in a depression. To cheer up after a loss, you have to properly deal with grief. In time, the tears, pain and sadness will subside and happiness will return.

Instructions

• 1

  Express your grief. Allow yourself to grieve over your loss. Talk to a friend with whom you feel comfortable. Mention the fun times you've had with your pet and avoid blocking out any grief. Talking about your loss will make you feel better. The only way to get rid of grief and to cheer up is to go through the grieving period. Understand that grieving is not a sign of weakness and that there is no correct way to grieve. Cry, scream or pound your fist on a pillow. Avoid keeping your feelings inside.

• 2

  Get at least 30 minutes of exercise daily to help cheer you up. According to Web MD, regular exercise combats depression, reduces stress and helps improve your mood by releasing endorphins in your body.

• 3

  Stay connected with other people. Meet a friend for lunch or go see a movie together. Avoid wallowing in your sorrow. Meeting with other people helps avoid depression.

• 4

  Make a photo album or scrapbook in memory of your lost pet. Include photographs of all the fun times you've had with your pet. Once the pain subsides and the grieving period is over, this collage can cheer you up and bring back all the fun memories of your time with your pet.

• 5

  Keep a journal. Write down six things that you are grateful for on a daily basis. Realizing that you have many things that are positive and good in your life will cheer you up.

• 6

  Get a new pet when you are ready to move forward. After you've overcome your loss, you may feel the need for another pet. A new pet can add joy to your life as long as you don't compare it to your lost pet. Avoid picking a pet that looks like the one you lost and don't give your new pet the same name as your old pet. Allow your new pet to develop its own personality.