Although grief is not a linear process and we all react differently to loss, familiarising yourself with the five stages of the grieving process can help. You will experience some or all of these, and not necessarily in order but knowing these emotions are normal can help you through bereavement.
Losing a Horse: The Grieving Process
Denial is often the first reaction to grief. It is an emotional defence mechanism used by your subconscious to block out the initial pain.
Anger is how we express the first real waves of grief. You may find yourself falling out with friends or family, feeling angry, or resenting the vet for not saving your horse.
Bargaining is the subconscious’s way of dealing with circumstances beyond your control. You may wonder ‘if only I’d spotted the problem sooner’, ‘what if I’d done something differently’, or ‘if only the circumstances had been different’.
Depression is most commonly associated with grieving. It appears in a variety of ways – you may feel worried and regretful or as though your life is lacking in meaning without your horse. Even getting out of bed in the morning can be a struggle – you might worry you will never feel happy again.
Acceptance isn’t a miracle cure, but the recognition that life without your horse is reality now. Accepting the truth means you can start to think about reintroducing riding into your life. The positive steps you take stage will allow you to be happy again.
Heavenly Pastures Horse Cremation Service
Nobody wants to think of losing their companion, but the day must come when every horse has to move on. Whether the worst has happened and you need support or you are planning for the future to make the inevitable less of a burden, Heavenly Pastures Horse Cremations are here to help you with horse cremation services in the North West – covering the counties of Lancashire, Merseyside and Cheshire. We give you the space to grieve as our equine end of life service takes care of the practical arrangements so you have the space to grieve.
Ormskirk Horse Cremations 01704 776 976
St Helens Horse Cremations 01704 776 976
Preston Horse Cremations 01704 776 976
Maghull Horse Cremations 01704 776 976
Southport Horse Cremations 01704 776 976
