Elizabeth Rousseau, M.S., LMFT

Yesterday would’ve been my Crash’s 13th birthday. I woke up to my phone and social media sharing memories of all of the wonderful birthdays we had celebrated in the past, and it left me feeling very bittersweet.

This leads me to the topic of continuing bonds. Rather than attempting to detach from a beloved pet once they’ve physically departed, those who opt to continue bonds with them maintain a relationship with the pet who has passed.

Continuing bonds can look like many different things — talking to a loved one who has passed, recalling fond memories, holding onto mementos, visiting places associated with a loved one, memorializing a loved one, etc.

Yesterday, I found comfort in looking at pictures, intently reflecting on warm memories of Crash, and saying a few words to him to let him know how much I miss him. Despite what you may hear, continuing bonds is not just normal — it is comforting for so many grieving pet owners.

Grief is a highly individualized an experience, and allowing yourself to engage in continuing bonds exercises that are comforting to you can aid in your healing process. 💙

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