Sometimes, pet loss grief takes us by surprise.  

We expect it to feel overwhelming when we lose a long-term animal friend – someone who shared years of our lives, who knew our routines and moods, who felt like a part of the family. 

But what if the bond hadn’t fully formed yet? 

What if you’re grieving the loss of a newly adopted dog or cat (or any other species), a foster animal, or an animal companion you were caring for temporarily – and you weren’t expecting to feel so much? 

You might be left with a confusing mix of sadness, guilt, anxiety, or even embarrassment about how much you’ve been impacted by this loss. Maybe you’re wondering, “Do I have the right to feel this upset?”  

The short answer is: Yes, you do. 

Grief isn’t proportionate to the time spent together 

Emotional bonds don’t always need years to form or matter. Sometimes, an animal companion can touch our hearts in days, hours, or even moments. You might have been imagining a future with them – one that now feels stolen. 

Connection can form quickly, especially if you’re a compassionate, empathetic person. When we welcome a new furry or feathered friend into our lives, we open ourselves up to caring deeply. That willingness to love and protect creates a bond, even if it hasn’t had time to deepen fully. 

Perhaps you felt protective the moment your animal friend arrived, especially if they were nervous, unwell, very young or very old, missing a previous caregiver, or recovering from past trauma. Maybe you found yourself constantly checking on them, adjusting your routines to meet their needs, or feeling joy when they began to trust you, even just a little. 

These small, quiet interactions matter. They lay the foundation for a relationship that would have grown over time. And when that possibility is taken away suddenly, the grief can feel like a rupture. 

Guilt, confusion, and the emotional weight of grief 

Unexpected grief in situations where the bond is new and developing often comes tangled with guilt and confusion. You might wonder: 

• Did I do enough for them? 

• Should I have bonded with them more quickly? 

• Why am I this upset when I barely knew them? 

There might be things that you regret, such as not taking more photos, not recognising symptoms sooner (this might have happened because you didn’t know what was ‘normal’ for your new companion), or not giving them more of your attention in the short time you shared – even though you probably spent every minute with them that you could. 

This kind of grief can feel especially raw because it includes the pain of unrealised potential. You were just beginning to learn about each other, just starting to make space in your life and heart – and now that space feels hollow. 

You may feel sadness, guilt, shock, helplessness, or a sense of yearning for what could have been. You might also feel emotionally conflicted, especially if you took in this animal friend on a short-term basis or weren’t sure yet how you felt. 

All these emotions are valid. 

Be gentle with yourself. Love often grows in quiet ways, and we don’t always realise how deep the roots are until we feel the absence. 

Invisible grief 

One of the hardest parts about this kind of loss is that it can feel invisible to others – another form of disenfranchised grief. 

You might not have shared many updates about this animal friend. There might be no collar to tuck away, no favourite toy to place on a shelf. People around you might not even know you were caring for them. 

Even if your network did know, they may not understand your feelings about losing this new animal companion, especially if they only view time spent together as a measure of connection. 

These circumstances can make your grief feel lonely. 

But just because a loss isn’t widely recognised doesn’t make it any less real. You’re allowed to mourn the relationship you were still building. The moments you won’t get to share. The hopes you quietly carried. 

Ways to honour the connection and cope with the pain 

Even if your time together was brief, you can still honour the bond you had – or the bond that was beginning. 

Some people find comfort in: 

• Writing a letter to their animal friend 

• Creating a small memory space, even if it’s just a photo and a candle 

• Talking to someone who understands animal loss 

• Journaling about what this loss has brought up 

• Donating in their name to a rescue or foster organisation 

• Naming your feelings and acknowledging that grief doesn’t require a long history 

• Visualising your animal companion by your side, offering comfort 

It can also help to find small ways to soothe your nervous system. Gentle walks, warm baths, time in nature, or spending time with other animals can bring a sense of calm. If you feel overwhelmed or stuck, speaking with a grief counsellor or therapist can offer support. 

Sometimes, telling your story to someone who will simply listen is one of the most healing things you can do – a lot of people do this in The Ralph Site’s private Facebook group. 

Grief is grief 

Whether you had a lifetime with your animal friend or just a few short days, grief is grief. It doesn’t need to be earned. It doesn’t need permission. 

You opened your heart to them. That counts. And if you’re hurting, it’s because love was there – or growing. 

Let yourself grieve. Let yourself remember. The bond may not have been fully formed, but the love was real. And that is always worth honouring. 

Shailen and The Ralph Site team  
The Ralph Site, non-profit pet loss support  

Some animal friends do more than offer love and companionship. They become our safe place. They help us survive things we don’t know how to explain, things we might not have survived otherwise. 

If you’ve lost an animal friend like this, someone who might be termed a “trauma companion”, then your grief may feel especially deep, complicated, or raw. You might not know how to begin untangling it. And that’s OK. 

More than a companion 

For people who live with trauma, anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, an animal companion can offer something few humans can: consistent, unconditional presence. 

Maybe your dog lay across your chest during panic attacks, grounding you and helping you breathe. Maybe your cat curled up beside you when no one else knew you were hurting, staying close without needing you to explain. Maybe your rabbit, guinea pig, snake, or bird gave you a reason to get out of bed each day, reminding you that your presence mattered. 

These animal friends become emotional anchors. Their routines give us structure. Their physical presence helps regulate our nervous systems. The sound of their breathing, the weight of their body, the feel of their fur or feathers against our skin can all bring a powerful sense of security, calm and connection. 

When you’ve experienced trauma, the world can feel unpredictable and unsafe. An animal companion often brings reliability and peace in a way that builds trust over time. Their companionship might feel like the only part of life that made sense. 

It’s not “just” grief 

If your furry, feathered or scaly friend was part of your healing journey, losing them might feel like losing part of yourself. You may feel as though the progress you’d made is slipping away, like you’re back in the darkest place you ever were. You might even feel ashamed for struggling so deeply. 

But please know, you’re not going backwards. 

Grief is not a sign that you’re broken, that your feelings are unusual, or that you won’t find a way to move forwards. It’s a sign of the depth of your connection. 

You are grieving a very real, very significant loss. One that touches parts of you that other people may never see. One that deserves space and compassion. 

You don’t have to justify your pain. It matters. 

What makes it harder 

Sometimes, the people around us don’t understand the grief of losing an animal companion. They may say things like: “It was just a dog”, “You can get another one”, or “At least it wasn’t a person”. 

Comments like these can feel dismissive or even cruel, especially when your animal friend was your emotional lifeline. They weren’t an “it”, an item to be replaced like a mobile phone or a piece of furniture; they were a sentient being, a once-in-existence individual, and they deserve to be remembered as such. 

On top of that, the grief of losing them might stir up other pain. Their death may reactivate old wounds or unresolved trauma. You might feel abandoned all over again. You might find yourself revisiting past losses, childhood grief, or times you felt unseen or unsupported. Please know that this “normal” (if there is such a thing!) 

Grief rarely arrives in neat packages. It tends to show up in waves, and it often carries echoes from other times in your life – the ‘Ball in the Box’ analogy explains this brilliantly. 

How to cope: gentle steps forward 

Grief after losing a trauma companion can feel overwhelming, even terrifying. But there are ways to support yourself through it. 

Here are some ideas that might help: 

• Allow yourself to feel. Try not to rush your grief or push it aside. Cry if you need to. Sit in silence. Name your feelings without judgement. All of it is valid. 

• Create a grief ritual. Light a candle in their memory. Write them a letter. Talk to them out loud. Rituals can offer comfort and a sense of connection. 

• Keep a journal. Record memories, emotions, and anything else that helps you express what you’re going through. Writing can provide clarity and relief. 

• Speak with a therapist. A counsellor, particularly one trained in trauma, grief and/or pet loss, can help you process your loss in a safe, supportive space. 

• Reach out to others. Consider joining a grief group (in person or online) or connecting with others who understand what it’s like to lose an animal companion who helped them through trauma.  

• Create something lasting. A scrapbook, a memorial, a piece of art, or a donation in their name can offer a sense of legacy and continuity. 

• Visualise your animal friend by your side. Some people find comfort in imagining their beloved companion sitting beside them, offering silent support. Even though your animal friend is no longer physically present, picturing them nearby can help you feel grounded, supported, and less alone. 

• Spend time with nature or other animals. If and when it feels right, being with other living beings or in calming environments may soothe your nervous system. 

Some people find it helpful to make a plan for how you want to handle the tough moments: anniversaries, certain times of day, or routines that now feel empty. Having supportive people on standby, comforting activities lined up, or even calming breathing exercises can ease the intensity. 

You are not alone 

If your animal companion was your safe place, grieving them can feel like the ground has shifted beneath you. It can be isolating, especially if others don’t understand. 

But please know, you are not alone. 

Many people have experienced this kind of loss. It’s profound. It’s real. And it matters. 

Your animal friend saw you in your hardest moments and stayed by your side. They made a difference in your life. Their love doesn’t disappear. It lives on in your heart, your memories, and the strength they helped you find. 

Shailen and The Ralph Site team 
The Ralph Site, non-profit pet loss support 

If you’re reading this article because you’re grieving the loss of a cat, first let us say that we’re sorry for your loss. 

Cats are enigmatic, affectionate, and more than a bit magical. They have a way of weaving themselves into the fabric of our lives, curling up in our hearts as easily as they curl up on our laps. From their mischievous antics to their quiet companionship, cats enrich our lives in countless ways. Losing them can leave a profound emptiness that’s hard to put into words. 

The unique bond with cats 

The quote below comes from Matt Haig’s novel, The Life Impossible, and sums up perfectly why the love of a cat is so special. 

“I know there is a common misconception that cats are somehow less loving than dogs. This is nonsense. The love a cat can give you is sudden and warm. It is just that a cat’s love comes completely free of any moral or ethical principles. It is love for the hell of it. It is an entirely recreational love. In-the-moment love. But it is still, somehow, love.” 

Cats are known for their independence, but the bond they form with their humans is extraordinary. When you’re the focus of happy purring, kneading, slow blinks, gift giving (albeit, sometimes unwanted gifts!), or their gentle presence, it’s such a privilege. They choose us, and their love often feels earned, making it all the more special. 

When they’re gone, it’s not just their physical presence we miss but this quiet sense of acceptance, understanding, and fully requited love.  

Cats often know when we’re feeling down and find subtle ways to comfort us. It takes time to process that loss of solace. If possible, try to share your grief with friends, family, or pet loss communities who can offer support and validation. Sharing your memories and talking about your cat’s unique personality can be a healing way to honour them while helping others understand your grief. 

Missing their presence 

There will be many ways that you miss your cat’s presence. 

Whether they had a habit of curling up beside you, greeting you at the door after work, stealing your pillow at night, or simply being a comforting presence in your home, it’s understandable if their absence has left an enormous void. 

The routines you shared – feeding times, morning cuddles, evening play sessions – may now feel painfully empty. Even the small, quiet moments, like the sound of their purr or the sight of them basking in a sunbeam, are deeply missed. 

It can be helpful to honour these routines in a new way. Perhaps you can set aside time to reflect on happy memories or create a meaningful habit to mark the significant moments in each day. Grieving takes time and how you find comfort is a deeply personal process. 

When a cat leaves us: age, illness, and the unexpected 

Cats have the potential to live long and fulfilling lives, often reaching their late teens or even early twenties with good care and good fortune. This longevity means they become deeply woven into our daily routines and family life, making their absence even more profound.  

After so many years of shared experiences, the loss of a long-lived cat can feel like saying goodbye to a lifelong friend, leaving a space that time alone can’t easily fill. 

And let’s not forget that cats are masters of disguise when it comes to their health, often hiding signs of illness until it’s too late to intervene. This can leave you questioning whether you could or should have done more.  

If you had to make the decision to help your cat pass peacefully, you might be grappling with feelings of doubt or guilt over the timing. 

Sometimes, the loss of a cat comes in sudden and tragic ways. Cats are natural explorers, and their independent nature often leads them outdoors, where risks such as traffic or becoming lost are present.  

Losing a cat to an accident, or having a cat go missing without closure, can intensify feelings of guilt, helplessness, and grief. In these situations, it’s important to remind yourself that you provided a loving home and allowed your feline friend the freedom to live as their curious, adventurous self. 

Whatever the circumstances, you only ever acted out of love and with the best intentions. Your cat was loved, and that’s what matters most.

The emotional and physical symptoms of grief 

Grief is never simple, and when it comes to losing a cat, it can stir up a range of emotions. You might feel sadness, guilt, anger, disbelief, or even relief if your cat had been ill for some time.  

These feelings are all part of the grieving process and will depend on your unique circumstances. 

Grief doesn’t just affect your emotions; it takes a toll on the body too. You might notice changes in your sleep, appetite, concentration, or energy levels. It’s important to listen to your body and give yourself permission to rest and recover. 

Take things one step at a time. Gentle exercise, nourishing meals, and moments of quiet reflection can help you find balance. And remember, it’s OK to seek help if you’re struggling – you don’t have to face grief alone. 

Finding support 

If you’re finding it hard to cope, know that there are people and resources to support you. Pet loss helplines, grief counsellors, and online communities like The Ralph Site’s Facebook group can provide a safe space to share your feelings and find understanding. 

Grief can feel isolating, but you are not alone. Many others understand the pain of losing a cat and can offer empathy and support.

Memorialising your cat 

If you’re looking for a comforting way to process your grief and celebrate your cat’s life, then you might want to create a memorial. This could be a photo album, a piece of artwork, or planting a tree or flowers in their honour. Some people find solace in keeping a favourite toy or collar as a keepsake.

Writing about your cat – their quirks, the joy they brought, the ways they made you laugh – can also be a healing exercise. These tributes serve as a reminder of the happiness they brought into your life and keep their memory alive.

It can also be helpful to create new rituals to maintain a sense of connection and continue your bond with your feline friend. This might include lighting a candle for them, spending time in a favourite spot where they loved to nap, or journaling your feelings about them.  

Remembering the joy 

In the early stages of grief, it can be hard to focus on anything but the loss. Over time, though, the memories of your cat’s life will start to shine brighter than the pain of their passing. You’ll remember the way they made you smile, the comfort they brought, the quirks that were unique to them, and the unconditional love they gave. 

For now, be gentle with yourself. Grieve in your own way and at your own pace. Your cat was one of a kind, and the love you shared will always be a part of you. 

Shailen and The Ralph Site team 
The Ralph Site, non-profit pet loss support 

If you’ve come to this article because you’re grieving the loss of a dog, let us first say how sorry we are for your loss. 

Dogs are packed full of personality and an endless source of unconditional love. They are our family members, our best friends, our closest confidants, eternally child-like, and yet wise beyond words. No wonder we miss them so much when they’re gone. 

Losing a dog is never easy. In fact, it can be just as devastating as losing a human loved one. 

Grief, guilt, and other emotions 

You probably expected to feel sad about the loss of your canine companion, but you may also be feeling emotions such as guilt, anger, bewilderment, denial, numbness, and anxiety, depending on your individual circumstances. This can be hard to process, but all these emotions – and more! – are very much part of grief. 

Guilt, in particular, seems to be a core part of pet loss grief, probably because our animal friends are not able to tell us how they feel or what they want.  

If your dog died suddenly, you may be asking yourself whether you missed important signs that they were ill or injured. If they’ve been ill for a while, you may wonder whether you did enough to support them. If they were young, you may feel responsible for the life they won’t live. If you had to choose euthanasia to end your dog’s suffering, you may feel that you did it too soon or not soon enough. 

Having heard from thousands of bereaved pet carers via The Ralph Site, it’s safe to say that almost everyone wrestles with difficult thoughts of one kind or another when a pet dies. It’s the brain trying to make sense of an unimaginable loss. 

Please be kind to yourself. Whatever the circumstances, we know you did the very best for your dog. If love could save them, they would have lived forever. 

Feeling unseen in your grief 

Losing a dog is often devastating, but you might be finding it hard to express your grief. Sadly, people are often quick to ask bereaved dog parents when they plan to get another dog or dismiss the loss as “only a dog”. This can be hurtful. You know only too well that every dog has a unique, irreplaceable personality. Your furry best friend was never only a dog. 

It’s our belief at The Ralph Site that people don’t mean to be dismissive. Asking if you plan to welcome another dog into your life generally comes from a recognition that loving a dog is important to you and a huge part of your life. 

Still, such comments are painful. Pet loss is often described as a disenfranchised grief because it isn’t necessarily recognised across our society, other than by people who have experienced their own bereavement.  

We understand that your dog mattered in so many wonderful and varied ways. They were a once-in-existence individual, and we are glad you had the joy of knowing each other. 

Loss of routine and social contact 

Your dog’s daily care, walks, and playtimes will have been a significant part of your life. You may have friends you met on walks together, or even a trusted dog walker or groomer who was part of your dog’s inner circle. Right now, you may feel like they have disappeared from your life too or that you’ve lost part of your identity. 

Losing a dog often results in many secondary losses – routines, people, places. The absence of these can leave a significant void and make the grieving process even more difficult. 

Maintaining routine 

To cope with the loss of routine, many dog carers find it helpful to maintain some aspect of the activities they used to do with their dog. This might help you too.  

Even if you can’t face your dog’s favourite walks, you could try exploring new places at the times you used to walk with them. Alternatively, you could explore favourite places at different times of the day,  

If you want to see your dog-walking friends, head out to meet them. They will hopefully give you comfort and support and remind you of all the special memories you hold of your dog. 

At your dog’s usual playtime, how about doing something that you find playful or enriching? This could be listening to music, doing something creative, cooking, dancing – the choice is yours. 

Don’t be afraid to experiment and explore what works for you.  

Finding new social connections 

We recognise that dogs often serve as social bridges, helping us connect with other dog guardians and animal lovers. Losing this social contact can be isolating. To fill this gap, consider joining local dog-walking groups, volunteering at rescue centres, or participating in community events related to pets.  

These activities can help you meet new people who share your love for animals and provide a sense of belonging.

The physical and emotional impact of grief 

Grieving isn’t just emotional – it can take a toll on your body too. You might notice that you’re feeling more tired than usual, struggling to concentrate, or that your sleep patterns or appetite have changed. These are all normal responses to loss. 

Try to be kind to yourself during this time. Rest when you need to, eat nourishing foods, and take things at your own pace. 

Grief isn’t linear, and it doesn’t have a set timeline. Some days may feel harder than others, and you may find that your feelings resurface unexpectedly, even years later. This doesn’t mean you’re not healing – it’s simply a reflection of the love you shared. 

Supporting children through grief 

If you have children, you might be navigating their grief as well as your own. Children often grieve differently from adults, and they may have lots of questions or strong emotions about the loss of your beloved dog. 

Encourage them to talk about their feelings and share their memories. Creative activities, such as drawing pictures of your dog, writing a story about them, or making a scrapbook, can help children process their emotions and remember the happy times. 

Reassure them that it’s OK to feel sad, angry, or confused – and that it’s also OK to smile or laugh at the silly, wonderful things your dog used to do. 

Memorialising your dog 

Every human culture has rituals to help people navigate the loss of a loved one, and there’s no reason you can’t adapt these rituals for your amazing dog. 

Creating a memorial of some sort can be a genuine source of comfort and a way to channel your grief. You might choose to create a photo book of your favourite moments together, plant a tree in your dog’s memory, or keep their collar or tag as a keepsake. Only you know what feels right for you and your family. 

Some people find solace in holding a small ceremony or writing a letter to their dog, expressing their love and gratitude for the joy they brought into their lives. These rituals can help you feel close to them even though they’re no longer physically with you. 

Deciding whether to get another dog 

You may already be wondering whether you’ll get another dog one day, or perhaps someone has suggested it to you (as we mentioned above, this is a common question from people who are trying to be comforting!).  

Please know that there’s no right or wrong answer to this question, and the timing will depend on what feels right for you. Some people discover they just can’t live without a dog as part of their family, while others decide it’s time to focus on other areas of their life. Either way, it’s your decision to make. 

Welcoming a new dog into your life doesn’t mean replacing the one you’ve lost. It’s a way of continuing the love you shared, carrying forward the lessons your beloved dog taught you, and opening your heart to new experiences. 

For now, it’s OK to take your time. Grief is a journey, not a race. 

Seeking professional support 

Sometimes grief can feel overwhelming. If you find that you’re struggling to cope, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. There are therapists and counsellors who specialise in pet loss and can help you work through your feelings in a safe, supportive space. 

The Blue Cross’s pet bereavement support service or The Ralph Site’s private Facebook group are two examples of safe spaces to talk about your loss. 

You might also find other articles and resources about pet loss grief helpful (you can find a whole host of topics here on The Ralph Site blog). Sometimes, it’s comforting just to know that you’re not alone. 

Finding hope and healing 

In the early days of grief, it might feel impossible to imagine a time when the pain will ease. Grief can leave us trapped in the moment of loss, reliving it repeatedly. But it’s important to remember that the moment you parted is just one page in the story of your dog’s life. Yes, they died, but they lived too – goodness, they lived! 

Over time, the sharp edges of loss tend to soften, leaving behind a treasure trove of loving memories that you’ll carry with you always.  

For now, take things one day at a time and let yourself grieve in whatever way feels right for you. The love you shared with your dog is still there and always will be. 

Shailen and The Ralph Site team 
The Ralph Site, non-profit pet loss support 

When you’re grieving a beloved pet, it can be hard to know where to turn for comfort or how to move through the world without them. 

Although we’re writing this blog on a cold December day, there’s no doubt that spending time in nature can offer gentle solace, even if you do have to wrap up in your biggest winter coat! The natural world has a unique way of helping us navigate grief, grounding us and providing a space to reflect, heal, and find moments of peace.  

Let’s explore how connecting with nature can support you during this difficult time. 

1. Nature connects you with the present  

When you’re grieving, it’s easy to get caught up in memories of the past or worries about the future. People often talk about replaying their pet’s final days or not wanting to imagine life without them. 

Spending time in nature – whether it’s walking through a forest, sitting by a stream, or simply standing in your garden – can gently bring you back to the present (even in chilly weather!).  

The rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, or the feel of the sun, wind or rain on your skin are sensory reminders of the here and now. These small but powerful sensations encourage you to focus on the moment, offering a temporary reprieve from emotional pain. 

2. Being outdoors promotes mindfulness 

Mindfulness, the practice of being engaged and fully present in the moment, is often elusive during grief. Our thoughts can become loud and chaotic or we can feel like we’re struggling with brain fog.  

Nature, with its many textures, sounds, and scents, provides an ideal environment for mindfulness. Try touching the bark of a tree, inhaling the fresh scent of damp earth, or listening to the wind as it weaves through the grass. These sensory experiences can anchor you in the now, offering a sense of calm and respite from the storm of loss. 

3. Nature provides a space to grieve 

The modern world is so busy and relentless that you might feel like there’s no space for your pet loss grief. Nature offers a safe haven – free from the responsibilities of work, family, and daily life – where you can fully process your emotions. Sitting in a quiet park, listening to the rhythm of waves hitting the sand, or walking a favourite route can give you the privacy and peace you need to face and understand your feelings. 

4. The natural world reminds us of life’s continuum 

Being in nature can be a humbling and healing experience. The cycles of the seasons, the resilience of plants, and the quiet persistence of rivers and streams remind us of the continuum of life.  

The band, The Byrds, encapsulated this perfectly in 1959 (quoting Ecclesiastes 3:1 as inspiration), “There is a season, turn, turn, turn, And a time to every purpose under heaven; A time to be born, a time to die….. a time to dance, a time to mourn”.  

While grief may make you feel isolated, nature can help you know that you’re a part of something so much larger – a world where life and love endure in many forms.

5. Time spent in nature is good for our mental health

Spending time outdoors has been proven to improve mental health. Natural settings can help reduce feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress. Even a short walk in a green space can trigger the release of endorphins, offering moments of relief from the weight of grief.  

If you feel hesitant to venture out, start small – a few minutes outside your door, a stroll in a local park – and let nature do its quiet work. 

6. Being outdoors encourages physical activity 

Grieving can sometimes make us feel low on energy and physically stuck, but gentle movement in nature can help ease that tension.  

Whether it’s a slow walk, a light jog, or even gardening, physical activity in a natural setting boosts your mood and helps you feel more connected to your body. Over time, these small actions can provide a sense of renewal. 

7. Nature can provide space for social interactions and connections 

If you feel ready, nature can be a place to connect with others. Joining a walking group, meeting a friend for a walk, or simply exchanging smiles with someone in the park can help you to feel part of something greater than yourself. Sharing your experience with others – even in small ways – can remind you that you’re not alone. 

Try Googling whether there are any “Walk and Talk” groups or “Wellbeing Walks” in your local area. In the UK, for example, the Walk and Talk Movement is making a growing impact in terms of helping people feel connected with each other and their local green spaces. 

8. Spending time in nature increases your exposure to natural light 

Natural light is more than a mood booster – we humans need it to be fit and healthy. Spending time outside can regulate your body’s internal clock, which is fantastic for improving your sleep. It can also boost your immune system, increase your energy, and make you feel more focused. 

If the days feel particularly heavy, stepping into the light of day can make a difference. 

Finding your way forward 

As we always say at The Ralph Site, there’s no right or wrong way to grieve the loss of a much-loved animal companion. The love and bond you shared are unique, so how you experience grief will be unique, too. 

If you’re grieving the loss of a dog, horse, or another animal companion with whom you spent countless hours outdoors, we understand that returning to nature can feel bittersweet – or even overwhelming. You may feel like you’re not able to enjoy the outside world without them. 

We would urge you to think about why time in nature was so important to you both. Those reasons haven’t changed.  

Our hope is that, over time, the same spaces that once held shared adventures and quiet companionship can become a source of comfort. Being outside still offers the grounding benefits of connection, mindfulness, and renewal. It’s OK to take it slowly – perhaps starting with a new place or finding a small corner of nature to sit and reflect. Your grief is valid, and so is your journey back to the places you once shared. 

Finding a way to move forward takes time, but nature, with its gentle rhythms and enduring beauty, offers a place where you can grieve, reflect, and eventually, begin to heal. Whether it’s a familiar forest path, a favourite beach, or simply the patch of sky above you, let nature hold you in its quiet embrace. 

Shailen and The Ralph Site team 
The Ralph Site, non-profit pet loss support