Saying “goodbye” to our beloved pets is something that no dog owner looks forward to. It is often the most challenging part of homing furry family members. This tragedy becomes more complex when our children have to face these issues and upsetting themes. The best way to help a child cope with losing a pet is to offer the support they need. You can achieve this with different strategies. It always helps to be open and honest with our children about what you all are going through. Explain your feelings and express vulnerability about the loss of your pet. This will allow your child to do the same.
You may consider holding a memorial for your pet. This doesn’t have to be extreme. Designate a time and place for you and your family to grieve the loss of your pup. Another great way to introduce topics related to a pet’s death is by exploring children’s books on the subject. These books can be relatable and explain what is going on in a gentle way to comfort your child. We’ve compiled a list of five children’s books that will help your family cope with losing such an important part of your family.
Saying Goodbye to Lulu
Written by Corinne Demas & Illustrated by Ard Holt
“Saying Goodbye to Lulu” follows a young girl’s process as she copes with losing her best friend, Lulu. The two do everything together, and when Lulu grows old, the little girl realizes they will not get to play together forever. Although she struggles with losing her best friend, the little girl learns that Lulu will forever live on in her memory.
The Rainbow Bridge: A Visit to Pet Paradise
Written & Illustrated by Adrian Raeside
This children’s book tells the story of Rick, a seven-year-old, and his best friend, Koko, as they grow up together. Rick must face Koko’s declining health as the furry friend ages but soon learns what beautiful things await Koko in his very own pet paradise.
Sammy in the Sky
Written by Barbra Walsh & Illustrated by Jamie Wyeth
When illness causes Sammy’s death, his human family is distraught and struggles to cope with losing their canine. They chose to remember Sammy by participating in the activities that were his favorite.
Remembering Barkley
Written by Erin Frankel & Illustrated by Aboo Yang
“Remembering Barkley” tells the story of Bear and his human counterpart, Jacob, as they navigate the loss of their friend Barkley. At first, Bear and Jacob can’t bring themselves to participate in the activities that Barkley loved to do. Eventually, the two learn how to manage their sadness by leaning on each other and remembering Barkley.
Dog Heaven
Written & Illustrated by Cynthia Ryfant
“Dog Heaven” offers and explores a comforting, imaginative, and playful idea of what our pets may experience in their afterlife. Ryfant’s storytelling and illustrations allow readers, young and old, to be whisked away and dream of what their pup may be up to in dog heaven.
If you’re going through a challenging time, don’t forget to be patient. Coming to terms with the loss of a pet differs for everyone and can take weeks, months, or even years. These books will hopefully help to make this challenging time a little simpler for your child.