When rehoming is the best option
Rehoming a pet, or even the thought of it, is incredibly heartbreaking. Our pets mean the world to us. All the amazing memories made together only add to the difficulty of making this call. But sometimes, letting go is the best option for you and your pet.
Factors leading up to the decision to rehome vary. It could be due to a change in family circumstances, issues with your health, financial difficulties, your pet not getting along with another pet, inability to meet a pet's specific needs or simply not having enough time to care for them properly.
My heart goes out to the lady courageously battling depression while dealing with the rising cost of living, feeding her best mate before herself, and choosing to rehome. To the young parents who tried everything but chose to rehome because their dog was absolutely terrified of men. To the elderly man who longs for companionship but cannot bring his loyal friend to a nursing home. And to all the pet owners facing the same decision. - Merel, the Home2Home team
Whether you’re exploring your options, are currently in the midst of finding a new home, or have already experienced the heartbreaking moment of saying goodbye to your furry friend - we feel for you. Whatever the reason for rehoming your pet, it’s okay to feel mixed emotions under challenging circumstances. Your feelings are valid and normal.
The emotional impact
You may feel emotions of guilt or shame. It can feel like you’re failing your furry friend and letting them down. In this case, please remember that rehoming your pet doesn't mean you don't love them. You can love them with all your heart. Choosing to find a new home for your pet means prioritising your pet's well-being above all else - and there’s no greater sign of love than that. So don’t beat yourself up if some guilt or shame creeps in.
Another emotion you may deal with during this time is grief. Even if not due to natural causes like illness or death, losing a pet can be just as devastating as losing a human loved one. There will be good and bad days as part of the grieving process, but trust that time will slowly heal your sorrow. You may find support in this article if your pet has recently passed.
You may also experience a sense of relief, having one less responsibility being carried on your shoulders. And it’s okay to feel relieved, too.
As you go through the emotional whirlwind of rehoming a pet, taking care of yourself should be your top priority. Allow yourself to feel all the feels while giving yourself plenty of time for healing and processing. Below are some helpful suggestions for coping with your emotions through this journey:
1. Stay in touch
If the new family is comfortable with it, ask for updates on your pet. Not only can this bring peace of mind, but it can also help you feel connected to your pet. If they live locally, you may even be able to organise occasional visits or offer petsitting services when needed.
2. Remember the good times
Take some time to recall the happy memories shared between you and your pet. This can help you focus on the positive aspects of your time together. Put your feet up, relax, and scroll through photos and videos of your pet saved on your phone. Treasure these memories. A small smile will appear on your face along with the tears.
3. Ignore other opinions
We often see horrific animal abuse and neglect cases make headlines, tugging at our heartstrings. While these stories are terrible, rehoming a pet out of love and responsibility to give them the best life possible is an entirely different situation. Anyone who's judgemental of your decision likely doesn't know all the details. In other words, they're judging a hypothetical scenario instead of actual facts. Remember that you know your story, and that’s what matters.
4. Your choice brings joy
You know how special your pet is, their unique quirks, and how funny or loving they are. These extraordinary qualities will make them an incredible addition to another family. Your pet will bring a new family much love, happiness and joy.
5. Be gentle with yourself
Check in and show yourself kindness and compassion on a regular basis. What do you need right now? Perhaps a dose of self-love, regular exercise, time in nature, or doing something nice for yourself. Ice cream? Chocolate? Treat yourself. You can find free science-based resources on improving your wellness here.
6. Share your feelings
Regardless of how you navigate the changes losing a pet brings, having support through the ups and downs is very beneficial. If you have people around you who can listen with understanding and compassion, reach out to them. Express your feelings about your loss and share your favourite stories and memories. All of us at PetRescue always love to hear stories of the joy a pet has brought to the humans lucky enough to have them in their lives. Feel free to share them with us by emailing yourstory@petrescue.org.au.
If you don’t feel comfortable talking to someone, that’s okay too. Journaling your thoughts and feeling can be therapeutic. It can help you understand your emotions, and sometimes just getting your thoughts down on paper can lighten a heavy heart.
If you’re overwhelmed, talking with a professional who understands the human-animal bond can be helpful. Help is available, and the links below might be a great starting point.
Dr Vanessa Rohlf - 0419 322 451
Pets and People - 1300 431 450
Pet Rest Grief Line – 03 9596 7799
Patch and Purr - 1300 112 711
Pet Loss Grief Support Facebook Group Australia
*If you’re considering rehoming or open to exploring options to stay together, contact the Home2Home team by submitting an application for further assistance.