Day 2

“He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3, NLT)

“Then the angel of the LORD came again and touched him and said, “Get up and eat some more, or the journey ahead will be too much for you.” (1 Kings 19:7, NLT)

“Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the ocean depths. You care for people and animals alike, O LORD.” (Psalm 36:6, NLT)

Your pet cared about you. Honor them by continuing to care for yourself.

Grief is exhausting.

In the early days after losing your pet, even the smallest tasks—getting dressed, preparing food, talking to a friend—can feel overwhelming. Your world has shifted. Life now feels divided into before and after, and adjusting to a new reality takes time. This is a normal part of grief.

King David described grief exhaustion in Psalm 6:6, writing, “I am worn out from sobbing.” When we feel adrift in a sea of grief, it is easy to neglect our basic needs, which is why it is important to stick to a basic self-care routine.

Our pets devote their lives to us, caring for us in countless ways. We can honor them by continuing their work.

You might not feel hungry at mealtimes, but eat a little something anyway—out of love for your pet.

You may not feel thirsty, but stay hydrated anyway—for the animal who loved you.

You may not want to take a short walk or exercise, but do it anyway—out of love for your beloved companion.

Your pet depended on the stability and comfort of the routine you created for them. You can honor them now by following their example. Over time, as your heart begins to heal, your capacity will increase, and your grief will feel a little less exhausting. But for now, it’s okay to focus on the basics and give yourself permission to heal.

You loved your pet deeply, and you experienced tangible expressions of God’s love through your pet. It will take time to adjust to their absence. But you don’t have to go through your grief alone. God is with you, even now. And he cares deeply about your pain. You can talk to him about your grief: write through it, draw it, talk about it while you take a walk. Cry out to him. The God who loves you so much that he sent your pet to you is there with you now. Loving you. Caring for you. Holding you close.

When you’re ready . . .

What were some of the ways your pet cared for you? Take a moment to thank your companion—and God—for that care.

Prayer

God, thank you for sending my pet to me. Thank you for loving me through them. Help me honor their devotion by caring for myself—even when I don’t feel like it.