We all live very busy lives with so much to do every day, and our lives are packed full of work, errands, and domestication. It’s no wonder that when a day comes when we lose a beloved pet, that we are beyond devastated. Sadly, the world does not stop turning for us, or even slow down at such a time. Yet the pain comes, and holds us, and we often feel the absence is just too much to bear. From grief to volunteer.

Grieving the loss of a pet is a personal journey so everyone’s recovery time is different. Some may recover quicker than others. One possibility is because there are other pets in the home. Another way to speed the grief-time could be to get a new kitten or puppy and begin a new relationship.

Others may decide not to get another pet for a while, for a few years, or even forever. This choice could be for a variety of reasons. Keep in mind, a postponement might delay the person’s ability to move forward a lot longer. For those who have chosen not to replace a long-loved pal, yet really want to move out of the pain, we’ve put together a list of things to do that can help overcome the loss.

Please know the list is not in a particular order of importance, and everyone has to process within their own time frame. Below are helpful steps one can take to provide some self-nurture.

Volunteer with a local pet rescue near you

• Volunteering can give a sense of purpose. The right type of volunteer work can provide you with a new sense of purpose and might add some zest to your life.
• Becoming a volunteer can bring a new fulfillment. Volunteering provides the time for you to escape from your day-to-day monotonous work or life commitments.
• When you volunteer it can bring happiness. Studies have shown that helping others brings gratification, so in this sense, giving back is as good for you as it is for those you are helping.
• Helping animals may reduce stress levels. Meaningful connections reduce stress, and just being around animals improves one’s mood, and reduces stress and anxiety.
• Much of our information comes from newsletters from one of our favorite pet rescue groups, Angels Among Us Pet Rescue and you can visit their site. Remember, the quickest way to go from grief to volunteer is to jump in.

Foster an animal

• Foster in your home. You can experience the rewarding fulfillment of giving a temporary home to animals in need.
• Help care for animals. It may surprise you how much is needed by rescues because they can use help with water and feeding, walking, or just socializing.
• Transport animals. Animals often need relocated, taken to the vet, or even removed from high-kill shelters. As a result, the rescue is more efficient.
• Take calls or answer emails. This is one area where rescues can always use the extra help. Just think how fulfilling it can be to connect a rescued animal to its new forever parent!
• Fund-raise or plan events. There is a lot that can be done in this capacity. If you are an organizer, your help with adoption events, yard sales, and even marketing on social media can be a true benefit to the rescue organization.
• Collaborate with other rescuers. There are numerous aspects of rescue that need attention in a collective way. From local and state regulations to new ways to benefit the animals. Whatever administrative task you choose here, you will be of great benefit and just might meet people who become your new friends.

Remember, should once we decide to volunteer, every minute of our time is needed and appreciated, and there will be so much reward for both.  We’ll change or save a life, fight against puppy mills, and quite possibly, remove our own self-focus long enough to be able to find a new way to love another animal.

Follow our simple recommendations and you’ll go from grief to volunteer in no time.