We know the loss of a pet parrot is not the nicest topic to think about, but as much as we wish our parrots were immortal, all good things must eventually come to an end. Our beloved feathered friends are more than just pets; they are family. The bond we share with them is unique and deep, and when that bond is broken, it can leave us feeling lost, heartbroken, and unsure of how to move forward.

Parrots can have incredibly long lifespans, with some species living for decades. This means that we often get many years of joy, companionship, and love from our birds. However, the loss of a pet parrot, especially one you've spent so many years with, can be particularly difficult to bear. If you're experiencing this painful loss, here are six things you can do to help yourself heal.

1. Understand That the Loss of a Pet Parrot Can Cause Real Grief

It's easy to dismiss the grief that comes with the loss of a pet parrot, but it's essential to recognise that the death of a parrot is a profound loss. Parrots are not just animals; they are friends, confidants, and companions who provide joy, comfort, and sometimes even a sense of security. When they pass away, it can feel like part of your heart is missing.

Many people believe that they should just 'move on' after the loss of a pet, but grief is a natural response to losing someone you love. It's okay to feel sad, confused, or even angry. The bond between you and your parrot was real, and it's important to allow yourself the time and space to grieve. Remember, grief doesn't have a set timeline, and everyone processes it differently.

2. Work Through Feelings of Guilt

When a pet parrot passes away, especially after a long and happy life, the grief can be complicated by feelings of guilt. You may wonder if you could have done something more to keep them healthy or safe. If your parrot passed due to old age, you might feel guilty about not being able to prevent the inevitable. But rest assured, old age is part of the natural cycle of life, and the time spent with your parrot was a gift.

The situation becomes more complicated if your parrot passes away unexpectedly. Perhaps there was an accident, or you had to make the difficult decision of euthanasia. These situations can be especially challenging, and it's normal to feel like you could have done more. However, it's important to remember that accidents happen, especially with curious animals like parrots. They are prone to getting into trouble due to their inquisitive nature, and sometimes, circumstances are beyond our control.

Try to remind yourself that you love your pet and that you did your best to provide a safe, happy life for them. Be kind to yourself during this process.

3. Don't Ignore Your Feelings

It's tempting to bury difficult emotions, especially in the wake of a pet's death. However, suppressing your grief can make the healing process longer and more difficult. Life doesn't stop when you lose a pet, and sometimes we feel the pressure to "keep going" and push through the pain. While it's true that you may need to carry on with daily responsibilities, it's equally important to make time to grieve.

Give yourself permission to feel whatever you're feeling—whether it's sadness, anger, or even relief in the case of a long and painful illness. Suppressing these emotions can have lasting effects, both emotionally and physically. Grief needs an outlet, whether through talking, crying, or writing. Take the time you need to work through these emotions so that you can begin the healing process.

4. Reach Out for Support

Grief can feel very isolating, especially if others don't understand the depth of your bond with your parrot. Not everyone can relate to the pain of losing a pet, and it can be difficult to find people who truly understand. That's why it's essential to reach out to others who share a similar experience.

If your family or friends aren't able to provide the support you need, consider seeking out online communities or support groups where others have experienced the loss of a pet parrot. You can join groups on social media, like the Parrot Essentials Facebook Group, or find other online spaces where parrot owners share their experiences. Speaking to people who understand your grief can be incredibly comforting and provide you with much-needed support.

If you feel comfortable, you can also talk to a professional, such as a counsellor or therapist, to help process your emotions. Sometimes, just having someone to listen can make all the difference.

5. Create Rituals and Ways to Remember Your Pet

The loss of a pet is often accompanied by a deep need to honour their memory and give their passing significance. Many people find comfort in rituals, whether it's holding a small ceremony, creating a memorial, or keeping a memento close by.

If you choose to bury your parrot, consider planting a tree or flowers in their honour, or keeping a special stone or plaque to mark their resting place. Some people also choose cremation and keep their parrot's ashes in a decorative urn.

A beautiful way to remember your parrot is by printing a favourite photo or creating a scrapbook filled with pictures and stories of the time you shared. You can also keep their favourite toy or food bowl as a reminder of their presence. These tangible items can help keep your parrot's memory alive and provide a sense of connection.

6. Don't Forget Your Other Pets

If you have other pets, especially other parrots, they can also be affected by the loss of a companion. Parrots are highly social animals and can grieve the loss of their flock mates just as humans grieve the loss of a loved one. In these times, it's essential to provide extra love, attention, and stability for your other pets.

Maintaining a sense of normalcy can help both you and your remaining pets cope. Try to keep their routines as consistent as possible, and spend time with them so they don't feel neglected during your grieving process. Focusing on your other pets can also provide some emotional relief for you, giving you a chance to distract yourself and connect with them as you heal.

Conclusion

Losing a pet parrot is never easy, and if you're going through the loss of your feathered friend, we truly sympathise with your pain. Grieving is a natural process that takes time, and it's important to be patient with yourself as you navigate this difficult journey. While the loss of a pet parrot leaves a hole in your life, the love, memories, and lessons you've shared together will always remain.

Feel free to share your story or a memory of your parrot in the comments below or reach out to the Parrot Essentials Facebook Group. You're not alone in your grief, and there are others who can provide support as you heal from the loss of your beloved parrot.