Losing a pet is not only the loss of a dear friend, but also often the loss of a major source of unconditional love and affection. We get so attached to our pets that when they are no longer with us, the impact of their love and friendship still remain in our hearts. When we are unable to let go of the intense emotions around the loss of our pets and get stuck in thoughts of the past, unable to accept the present, then it is a good time for us to try flower remedies.
Bach Flower Remedies are 38 plant and flower based remedies developed by British physician Dr. Edward Bach in the 1930s that can help you to manage the emotional demands of life. Losing a loved one often begins a prolonged state of grief and despondency. There are specific Bach Flower remedies that can help with the emotions associated with grief and loss. Each remedy represents a particular emotional archetype, like fear, sadness, guilt, despondency, etc.
Recognizing exactly how you feel is the key to choosing the most appropriate Bach Flower Remedy. Sometimes this can be tricky, as our mental and emotional states can be a mixture of many emotions which might require a combination of corresponding flower remedies. The emotional states described below are ones common in pet owners after the loss of pet.
There are some remedies that are also safe to give to any co-pets, since they too are probably experiencing grief – Rescue Remedy, which is a blend of essences and Walnut. If you’re having a hard time pinpointing which of your emotions should be addressed first, ask a friend to help you sort through them.
Here are few commonly prescribed remedies for healing and loss, and their key-indicators:
STAR OF BETHLEHEM: For recovering from SHOCK, if the loss was sudden and unexpected. Also helps animals who have suffered traumas or abuse.
WALNUT: If you’re having a hard time ADAPTING to the loss, walnut works as a “LINK-BREAKER” to help you to let go and release your pet. Walnut is also safe for your other pets who may be grieving.
PINE: For getting over the ‘GUILTY FEELING’, if you are struggling with euthanasia, or having had to make a very difficult decision to let your pet go.
GORSE: For the feeling of HOPELESSNESS especially when you feel discouragement, darkness and resignation. Gorse brings deep and abiding faith and hope; equanimity and light-filled optimism.
SWEET CHESTNUT: In extreme cases of LOSS OF HOPE where nothing rejuvenates the mind and darkness overshadows ones life. Brings deep courage and faith in life.
HONEY SUCKLE: When our mind escapes the present, CLINGS TO THE PAST, and longs for what was. Helps one to learn from the past while releasing it.
WHITE CHESTNUT: If particular THOUGHTS / DREAMS of your lost pet repeat frequently, almost making you feel imprisoned. This will bring inner calm and a quiet, clear mind.
ASPEN: For any unexpected surges of ANXIETY that you may be feeling about the health of your other pets, in spite of their good health. Brings trust and confidence to deal with unknowns.
How to take them:
You can add 3-4 drops of the corresponding remedy to a glass of water. Sip frequently until the emotional state resolves to a more manageable intensity. In the case of a combination of dominant emotions, add 2 drops of each applicable essence.
Dr. Amit Karkare practices as a Homoeopath and Veterinary Bach Flower Therapist – also serving as a Grief Counselor. Know more about his services at: http://www.dramitkarkare.com/pet_care.html.
Author: Amit Karkare
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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May 28, 2010 at 9:41 pm
judy and doug klein
I am so taken when I came across ur blog. We had to let out little girl, Skipper, (toy poodle) to heaven to be with my mom and dad on March 16th. That was the hardest and saddest day of our lives. I will never forget it, also, I still feel guilty for doing that, but, she is no longer in pain. She was a huge part of our life and our family, our “little girl”. Is there some I can get in touch with that does get in touch with our pets that pass on, to see how they are doing, etc? If so, I would appreciate it!
Thanks once again for in the info….greatly appreciated.
Have a great day!
Love and blessings
xo
June 1, 2010 at 7:31 pm
goodgriefpetloss
Dear Judy and Doug,
I am so very sorry for the delay in my response. Something went kerflooey with my WordPress blog and I wasn’t alerted that I had a message to reply to. I am so very sorry for your loss of Skipper. I know the tragedy that is coming home to too-quiet a house. Remember when you start to feel guilty that our animals live(d) in the moment and do not carry the burden of grudges. That’s a uniquely human foible. Skipper has no doubt transitioned and is already adjusted to her new state of being. If you are still looking for an animal communicator to talk to about her, I suggest you try Elaine Garley of Animal Bridges, Sue London, Lena Swenson, Sage Lewis and/or Marilyn Tokach of Pure Spirit. Email me at and I can give you all their sites and/or email addresses, OK? I hope you’re hanging in there, taking the time you need to heal your heart until such time as you’re ready to open it, and your home, to another needful animal. Ask Skipper to be on the lookout for the perfect next pet when the time is right.
All the best,
Sid