How to deal with the loss of a pet – working after losing one of yours
Groomers tend to be very bonded to their pets which means it can be especially hard on us when a pet dies. Everyone handles grief differently but it’s important not to let your's affect your work and professionalism. Here are a few tips on handling that situation.
- Don’t go back to work until you can. I’m not saying to indulge in your grief or let it take you over and stay home longer than you need to, but if every single dog you look at makes you burst into tears, it’s not time to be back yet. Groomers have a constant reminder of their loss in the form of all our clients, every day – it’s hard. The acute stage of grief when you feel as though you are in shock can last from hours to days, or even longer for some. This is not a time when you should be handling live unpredictable pets using sharp tools.
- If you need to reschedule appointments have someone else do it. Even if it’s your job or your salon, delegate this one time. People may say the wrong thing that will send you off the deep end. When you are grieving, you may not even know what will trigger you so don’t put yourself in a position to react poorly to a customer. Someone else can make those calls.
- When you do go back to work, have a script ready at least in your mind for discussing your pet’s death. Preferably have several variations. You aren’t yourself so don’t risk snapping off a nasty retort to an insensitive customer. “Thank you for your concern. He died peacefully in his sleep”. “Thank you for sharing your story”. “I don’t know yet if I’ll be getting another dog”. “Thank you, but I’d rather not talk about him yet it’s still difficult”. And move the conversation back into your grooming of their dog.
You will get through the loss of a pet, even if it doesn’t feel like it when it happens. And your co-workers really do understand.
By Carol Visser, Journalist, Master Pet Groomer, Certified Dog Trainer, Pet Product Expert
