When Your Rabbit Dies

Pet deaths are very serious things and should not be overlooked. Many times
other people do not understand this making the grieving process all the more hard. There are
many things that you can do to help the grieving process.

What to Do: - Realize you aren't alone: There are many people who have gone through the same thing that
you are going through.

- Decide what you will do with your pet's remains: Pets can be cremated or buried at specific
places with other animals or individually. Talk to your vet about places like this near you.
You can also bury your pet in your yard.

- Talk about what happened: If you have children, explain to them that the pet has died.
Share your feelings with others. You can even talk to your vet about what could have been done
to save your pet.

- Cry.

- Keep mementos: You may want to clip a lock of fur or save your pet's toys.

- Write about your pet: Poems, songs, and stories help to keep memories and to share them
as well.

- Set out photos or make a scrapbook.

- Read books and articles on grieving over pets.

Don't forget about your rabbits' friends! If your rabbit had a companion, he or she will probably
miss his or her friend. Your rabbit may even become depressed. Make sure your rabbit is staying
healthy. If your rabbit's behavior is abnormal (ie. he/she is not eating) contact your vet as
soon as possible! Don't forget to let your rabbit say goodbye to his friend. This will ensure
that your rabbit knows that his friend is gone. He may ignore the body of his friend or treat
it as if it were alive. Whatever he does, be sure to give him all of the time that he needs.

If you are interested in getting another rabbit or you think your rabbit would like a new friend,
bring your rabbit with you to the animal shelter so that he can pick out the companion that is
right for him. Be sure to make sure that the shelter/fosterer will allow you to bring in your
rabbit first!

Visit the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement

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