What to do with Pets Possessions when they pass on

Here is an extremely sticky issue, and one that is almost as painful as the actual death of a pet. It has been several years since our last pet died, when I used to live with my parents, and I am not sure of what my mother did with all the stuff. You may not realise this, but over the years, a pet, especially a dog or cat, tends to collect quite a lot of stuff. I can name at least ten items belonging to my nine-year oldDalmatian, Pepper.

We don’t take much notice of these things during their lifetime, but leashes, collars, feeding bowls, beds, and toys all have associations with the pet who used them, and it can indeed be an upsetting experience to be suddenly confronted with all these items which bring back so many memories.

Whether to dispose or Not

These are the two basic options that you have. The choice is really a personal one, so if you opt to keep your pet’s stuff, you should not compare yourself with someone who got rid of them. A compromise is to lock everything away in a closet for deciding at a later date what to do, at a time when you are in a better frame of mind.

Availing Assistance

Although handling your late pet’s possessions can prove to be a very burdensome and traumatic task, there is no compulsion that you have to go it alone. You could call a close friend or relative who is likely to emphatise with you, who will offer some comfort, and maybe even share a lighter moment, while remembering some of your pet’s past escapades. If you engage a pet bereavement counsellor, that person will be well-versed in guiding you in what to do.

Donation Option

If you decide to give away your pet’s possessions, there are several charitable organisations who will be happy to receive your gifts, and who will use them for other animals. Your local vet should be able to give you the required information about this.

With all this in mind, you should be in a better position to deal with your late pet’s possessions – something that you probably did not give a thought about, until you suddenly realised that this job needed to be done.