Love to learn

I don’t know about you, but I love to learn new things and be challenged where possible. Over the last few weeks I have been studying a Grief and Bereavement Counselling Diploma with the Centre of Excellence. I wanted to have some background understanding so that I can help those who are grieving.

I have found it very interesting, although I am only on my third module, but I think it will become invaluable as I progress in my new purpose.

The last module I did was on Pet Bereavement, which although very short, it was filled with some very interesting and useful information. I thought I would share some of it with you.

Did you know that depending on the age of your child(ren) it will depend on how they deal with a loss of a pet? I thought this was the case but to actually understand the differences is immense.

• between 0-2 years tend to have no understanding and they can be aware that the pet has gone and of peoples emotions;
• between 2-4 years may struggle to understand that death is permanent and want to know when their furry friend is coming back;
• between 5-10 years they tend to have alot of questions surrounding the death, so although they are aware they will struggle with the concept
• in adolescence you may find that your child(ren) are experience intense grief and are not willing to talk to anyone about it.

So if you have recently, lost a family member, whether parent, sibling, partner or pet be vigil. Is anyone in your family not taking the loss well, are they withdrawn? Everyone grieves in different ways so keep an eye out for any of the above if you have Children.

I personally, think that some of the reactions from children listed above could also be seen in adults too.

I am just in the process of setting up my Pet Memorials page, so please keep an eye out for it.

Thanks for reading, until next time