You can grieve the loss of an animal while they’re still alive.
It’s called anticipatory grief, and it can begin when your pet receives a serious diagnosis, when you notice them slowing down, or when you realize your time together may be getting shorter.
You might feel sadness, fear, guilt, or anxiety about what’s coming, even while your animal is still right there beside you.
And sometimes that can be confusing. You might wonder why you’re grieving when you still have time together.
But you can love the time you still have and grieve what may be coming at the same time.
Those feelings can exist together.
Anticipatory grief doesn’t mean you’ve given up on your animal. It means you’re facing the possibility of losing someone you love.
If you’re experiencing anticipatory grief, you don’t have to carry those feelings alone. I offer compassionate, nonjudgmental support for people navigating serious illness, end-of-life decisions, and pet loss.
Learn more at bridgingthegap.care.