As pet lovers, we all know when we bring home that new family member that likely as not, their lives will be much shorter than ours, and that eventually, we will have to say goodbye.

It doesn’t matter why, how or when we say goodbye; it’s never easy, and the realization that grieving for a beloved pet can be as difficult as grieving for a human family member is easy to understand.

Don’t let anyone influence the way you grieve, including yourself. It’s quite common to hear comments like, "Get over it. It’s only a dog."

Do not let anyone else tell you if, when or how much to grieve. Everyone experiences the process differently, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve.

You may even find differences in the way you grieve for different pets, as sometimes the bonds you have with some pets are stronger than others.

A way that helps me grieve is volunteering. I spend time at a dog or cat shelter visiting, cuddling and loving up the animals there.

The volunteers are incredibly compassionate and understanding with the loss of pets, and the animals will be so appreciative of the love and attention. This can help heal your heart in ways you couldn’t imagine.

My family and I just lost our pet dog Cooper too soon. He was a black cocker spaniel who was as wild as can be; we all miss him very much and it hurt so bad.

A huge discussion is whether it is best to immediately get a new pet or not. Every person is different in this regard, but in thinking about this decision, understand you are not replacing or dishonoring your beloved departed pet because nothing can do that.

There are lots of wonderful animals in shelters waiting to be adopted. What better way to honor your departed pet than by giving another animal in need of a forever home? Having another warm fuzzy body to cuddle with can be a tremendous way to help you to cope.

That’s what my family and I went through; it’s a little friend that can help with your grief like no one before. They are there to lift your spirits every day and bring you joy.

Losing a pet in my eyes is like losing a human. It brings you tremendous grief and pain, but they will always be with you no matter what.

Remember the happy times, and that they are in a better place and in no pain. They are with some of your other loved ones up in heaven.