What should I tell my children?
You are the best judge of how much information your children can handle about death and the loss of their pet. Don't underestimate them, however. You may find that, by being honest with them about your pet's loss, you may be able to address some fears and misperceptions they have about death.
Honesty is important. If you say the pet was "put
to sleep," make sure your children understand
the difference between death and ordinary sleep. Never
say the pet "went away," or your child may
wonder what he or she did to make it leave, and wait
in anguish for its return. That also makes it harder
for a child to accept a new pet. Make it clear that
the pet will not come back, but that it is happy and
free of pain.
Never assume a child is too young or too old to grieve.
Never criticize a child for tears, or tell them to
"be strong" or not to feel sad. Be honest
about your own sorrow; don't try to hide it, or children
may feel required to hide their grief as well. Discuss
the issue with the entire family, and give everyone
a chance to work through their grief at their own
pace.
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