Should you keep a pet your ex had? When my ex passed away, he owned two dogs and I could only keep one. The kids loved them both. They wanted to keep them both. What do you do with your exes pet when your ex passes away? Do you keep it? Do you find a new home for it? You are in the middle of trying to cope with the death of an ex, the kids are crying and you are desperately trying not to make an emotional based decision but that can be really tough in the moment! Here’s a guide to help you make that difficult decision:
They Just Lost Their Parent, Should I Keep Their Pet?
Losing a pet is difficult. But losing a pet when a parent has passed away can be even more challenging. If you are divorced and your ex spouse has passed away it can be challenging. Your children want to keep their pets and it’s important to navigate the situation (of keeping them or not) with compassion and understanding.
In my children’s eyes, their Dad’s pet was their tie and memory to their father. Pets can provide a great source of comfort and companionship for children who have lost a parent, and keeping a pet can also help provide a sense of stability and routine during a time of a lot of instability and changes in their life.
Unfortunately, I couldn’t keep both their dogs. It wasn’t possible. And they got mad for awhile but we were able to tie memories of their Dad through other means like these funeral stuffed animals or these beautiful t shirt quilts.
Consider the Pet’s Needs
When deciding whether or not to take your exes pet in after a parent has passed away, it’s important to consider the pet’s needs. Does the pet require a lot of attention, exercise, or specialized care? Can you afford to take care of the pet’s needs, both financially and time-wise? Will the pet be able to adjust to a new living situation?
Consider Your Children’s Needs
If your children want to have their pets live with them after their other parent has passed away, it’s important to consider their needs as well. Will the pet provide them with comfort and companionship during a difficult time? Will they be able to take care of the pet’s needs, or will you need to help them? Will keeping the pet provide them with a sense of stability and routine during a time of great upheaval?
Talk to Your Children
If your children want their pet with them after their other parent has passed away, it’s important to talk to them about it. Ask them why they want to keep it, and how they think they will be able to take care of it. Talk to them about the pet’s needs, and how you can help them meet those needs. Listen to their concerns and be honest with them about any concerns you may have.
Consider the Living Situation
If you are considering keeping your child’s and exes pet after your ex spouse has passed away, it’s important to consider the living situation. Do you have enough space to keep a pet? Does your home have a yard or outdoor space where the pet can play? If you live in an apartment, is the building pet-friendly? These are all important factors to consider when making a decision.
Consider the Future
When deciding whether or not to keep your exes pet after they have passed away, it’s important to consider the future. Will you be able to continue taking care of the pet if your circumstances change, such as if you move to a new home or have a change in income? Will the pet be able to adjust to any changes in your living situation or schedule? These are all important factors to consider when deciding whether or not to keep a pet.
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