5 ways to cherish your new pet without comparing it to your deceased pet
Written by Dennis Manzi
Losing a beloved companion is one of the hardest things you can experience as a pet parent. Pets are family, and when a pet crosses the rainbow bridge, the sadness is profound. However, for many of us, after some time the desire to open up to a new furry friend often appears. That's beautiful, but let's be realistic. It's not always easy.
Common habits, almost subconscious, may have crept in. It's about comparing your new pet to your deceased pet. That's natural. You have years of precious memories, special quirks, and unspoken bonds with your former companions. But while it's important to honor those memories, it's equally important to get to know your new pet for who he or she is. After all, they bring their own energy, personality, and lessons.
In this new era of pet guardianship, where mindfulness and conscious living are central principles, here are 5 ways to embrace your new companion without comparing them to your previous pet, and a meaningful gift you can cherish for years to come. Let's talk about how to build strong bonds. come.
1. Honor, don't compare
This is the truth. You can never stop loving your lost pet. However, trying to fit your new furry friend into the same mold is doing them (and you) a disservice. Instead of thinking, “Yes, Max used to do this,” try honoring Max's memory in other ways, like creating a small memorial or keeping a favorite toy in a special place. Let's change our way of thinking. This allows you to let your new pet be who they are.
Give them room to show you their personality, quirks, and little habits. They will be imprinted on your mind sooner than you think.
2. Recognize different energies
Every pet has its own unique vibe. Whether you've gone from a laid-back lab to an energetic terrier, or a senior cat to a rambunctious kitten, it's important to recognize that each companion animal has its own unique energy. If you stay in a state of constant comparison, differences can become very obvious, resulting in changes in your daily life and your relationship with your furry friend, and pet parents may find that their new pet is significantly more You may find yourself different and experience periods of frustration. Their needs and temperament have changed from before.
This is where the philosophy of mindful pet guardianship steps in. Instead of focusing on what your pet is not, focus on what your pet is. Pets reflect our energy. Rather than comparing your new dog's lack of excitement about bringing you things to your previous puppy's preoccupation with games, think of it as an opportunity to get into your pet's unique rhythm. Please. A leisurely walk may feel meditative, and its quiet presence may remind you to take deeper breaths and appreciate quiet moments. They have their own lessons to teach.
3. Let them write their own story.
Now, this is big. Your previous pet may have loved car rides or was an agility training pro, but your new pet may have loved sniffing every blade of grass and curling up at your feet for hours. You might get more into it. Let them write their own stories. Embrace new adventures instead of trying to recreate the same experiences.
Remember that your last pet took years to build cherished memories with you. Give your new pet the same chance. You never know what new traditions will emerge, but you'll soon find that what started as a “let's see” moment has now become one of your favorite daily rituals. Sho.
4. They are there, so be there.
Pets are a symbol of living in the moment. When you're grieving the death of a pet, it's natural to think about happy times. But when your new pet pecks your paw for a belly rub or gives you those puppy dog eyes, you're drawn into the world. That's the beauty of our animal friends. They don't live in the past or worry about the future. They are just like that.
Let your new companions bring you into the present with them. Compassionate pet guardianship is all about being in tune with your pet's energy and needs, so you can stay grounded too. It is in these moments that new bonds are formed, and you soon find yourself valuing the little things, like the fact that you snore louder than a freight train or the sidelong glances you get when you monopolize the bed. you will notice.
5. See your new pet as another opportunity for growth.
Each pet we welcome into our lives is a new teacher. They reflect our thinking, energy, and emotions and help us grow in unexpected ways. This new pet is not a replacement. They are a new chapter in your life and theirs. Every pet has its own personality, unique behaviors, and unique way of connecting with you.
Rather than focusing on the differences between a new pet and a deceased pet, think of your new pet as someone who can help you learn new lessons. It may teach you patience and help you rediscover the joy of spontaneity. Pets have a way of unlocking parts of us that we didn't even know we needed to unlock. Please cherish it.
When you bring a new pet home, you don't have to worry about replicating your previous pet. Lean into what is unfolding in front of you. Let's grieve, remember, and celebrate the new. After all, your pet wants you to accept the love and companionship you have in front of him, whether past or present.
* * *
Dennis Manzi is a certified dog trainer, animal communicator, pet numerologist, and founder of Pet Prana®. Her meticulous approach to pet training combines traditional training with vigorous consideration of pet guardianship. She has been featured in publications and media around the world, cementing her reputation as a pioneer in the field of mindful pet training. Her new book, Translating Pet Behavior: A Mindful Approach to Dog Training, is a #1 bestseller in its category on Amazon. For more information, please visit www.petprana.com.
Leave a Reply