A boy and his dog: Farewell to Lana - A final greeting!

A boy and his dog: Farewell to Lana - A final greeting!

On May 18, 2025, the 13-year-old German Shepherd Lana died, leaving the family with deep pain. Grandson Paul, who is only seven years old, was particularly affected by Lana's death. He had a particularly close bond with the loyal companion and spent many happy moments cuddling with her whenever he visited. This loss has deeply affected him, and his grief is part of the natural human reaction to saying goodbye to beloved pets.

Lana's ashes were interred at the foot of a magnificent magnolia that is in full bloom in spring. Paul expressed in his childlike simplicity that Lana now looks down on him and protects him. Furthermore, he promised that he will see her again one day. Such thoughts are not only comforting, but also typical of children trying to cope with loss.

Coping with grief after the loss of a pet

Losing a pet is an emotionally trying time that many pet owners find difficult. The grief over the loss of Lana shows how individual and deeply moving this experience can be. The effects of grief are complex and affect both physical and mental health. Those affected often suffer from sleep disorders, impaired appetite and feelings of loneliness and despair. During this time it is important to recognize and accept the grief in order to give space to the emotional pain.

To cope with the pain of loss, there are various strategies that can be helpful. This includes taking the time to go through your feelings and talk to friends or family about the loss. Additionally, creating a memorial for the pet, such as personal mementos, can provide comfort. The loss of an animal friend like Lana can also affect other pets in the family who provide important support.

Support and resources

In addition to personal coping strategies, grief management tools can be useful. Online communities make it possible to exchange ideas with other pet owners who have had similar experiences. Pet funeral services provide valuable support, while pet memorials create space to honor and remember the animals who have died. Literature and self-help books on coping with grief can also help you better understand and process your feelings.

The length of grief varies from person to person, and feelings of guilt after the loss are normal. It is advisable to take enough time before getting a new pet. Support from other pets can also have a positive impact on the healing process. For the most difficult moments, there are even therapists who specialize in grief management for pets who can help the people affected to process the loss and find a way back to a positive life situation.

The loss of Lana reminds us how important the connection with our pets is and how deep the love between humans and animals can be. Mourning Lana is not only an individual process, but also reflects the universal experiences and emotions associated with the loss of a beloved animal.