After losing a pet, when is the right time to get another?

The loss of a cherished dog, cat, or horse leaves a significant space in our life. Not only do we miss their company and the joy they brought us, losing a four-legged family member presents major challenges to face, like sudden changes to daily routines.

It can be tempting to jump at any opportunity to fill the void left by our beloved dog, cat, or horse when we lose them. However, it’s important to take a step back and consider the reasons behind such a life-changing decision, to ensure our actions aren’t based in grief.  

Here are our recommendations as to what you could be mindful of prior to taking on another pet after losing your family dog, cat, or horse… 

Consider the feelings of everyone in your household

First, it’s vital to recognise that the desire to take on another pet after losing one who meant the world to you is a perfectly natural reaction. As mentioned, the loss of a much-loved dog, cat or horse causes major change – meaning, it’s normal to wonder whether a new pet could ease some of that pain.

So, please don’t feel guilty for longing to welcome another pet into your family.

But, the grieving process is unique to each individual, which could mean that not everyone in your household feels ready to accept a new arrival just yet. 

For example, a child may need extra time to process the loss, and taking on another pet too soon might impact negatively on their ability to connect with the new addition. Alternatively, any pets who are left behind and still mourning the loss of their sibling are unlikely to react positively to a new dog or cat, depending on their personality. 

Make sure you don’t rush the decision

While you shouldn’t feel guilty about wanting to welcome a new dog, cat, or horse into your life after experiencing the loss of another, it’s vital not to rush. 

Rushing to get a new dog, cat, or horse while you’re in the throes of grief could lead to choosing a companion who isn’t the right fit for your family. 

Losing the companionship and sense of purpose gifted to us by a dog, cat, or horse is devastating. At such a time, it’s best to focus on taking care of yourself and your own needs, before pouring what’s left of your physical and emotional energy into another pet.

Remember to check in with yourself and your family, so you’re certain that you’re all ready to welcome a new pet into your home before acting on that decision.

Prepare for the next step on your pet parenting journey

Only you will know when you’re truly ready to open your heart and your home to another pet, after the loss of your beloved dog, cat, or horse. 

Here are some factors to consider before taking on a new dog, cat, or horse:

Reassess your current lifestyle

Does your lifestyle allow you enough time to bond with a new addition? For instance, if you’ve welcomed a new baby into your family or changed your working hours, could you still provide the level of care a puppy or kitten requires?

Should you have lost an older dog or cat, adding a puppy or kitten to your family will be a big change. Think carefully about the time and effort you’ll have to invest into tasks like toilet training, and whether you’re able to fulfil the needs of a younger pet.

Reassess your home environment

Have you moved house since your much-loved dog or cat joined your family? If so, is your home environment safe for a puppy or kitten?

Photograph of a vet in scrubs holding a tabby cat

Your other dog, cat, or horse’s situation

Would your other dog, cat, or horse tolerate a younger, more excitable companion? Or do you feel they’d benefit from a fellow dog, cat, or horse who shares the same energy level and is closer in age to them?

If you’re struggling to cope with the loss of your dog, cat, or horse, please accept our deepest condolences and rest assured that we understand what you’re going through. To access a range of free resources that provide advice and support through this difficult time, you can visit our Pet Bereavement Hub.

If welcoming a new pet is the next step in your pet parenting journey, please check out our resources as a refresher of what to expect:

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