I am so sad..

[Beth]

My hamster died last night. I am so depressed. Does anyone have some words of advice?

[Squawksx3]

Hello Beth and welcome to the board :)...I wish it was under better circumstances and so sorry to hear about your loss :(. Its always hard to lose something you love... just remember they're never really gone when they live in our hearts forever. Sending prayers and hugs your way... rest in peace little one....

[redsox9]

Hi Beth,
Our little hamster, Chubby, died last month, two weeks before my dog. No matter what type of pet, you fall in love with their personalities, the way they recognize and interact with you, and the companionship they give you. Chub was adorable and cuddly, and he gave our family lots of affection. We have a little pet memorial garden where we have buried our little pets when they've died. It helps to go there and feel like you have a place where they are. And I really believe that animals have souls, and they go someplace where we'll see them again when they die. One thing that helped me was keeping Chub's favorite little toy, actually a bird mirror with a bell, in a special box. When I got two new rats recently, I decided to give it to them. They love it, and it makes me feel kinda good to see them play with it.
You will know when you feel ready for a new pet. Remember you're not alone.

[chixxor]

I'm so sorry about your loss. I am sure he is happy wherever he is because he is free of the body that he suffered in.

One quick word of advice -- there are going to be cruel people you might encounter day to day who will tell you it was "only" a hamster or to "get over it" because of that. Completely close your ears to hearing these things. You need to grieve as long as necessary -- and don't let anyone run out and get you a replacement until you fully feel better, else your new friend might suffer while you still grieve!

Feel better Beth!

[redsox9]

I agree with Chixxor. People who say to get over it, it's just a hamster-cat-dog-bird-etc. think they're helping, but it makes you feel like nobody can relate to how you feel. The good thing is that you love your pet and he/she brings joy to you and you to him/her. That's what matters. True story: Years ago, I had a guinea pig who was like a little person. He did everything with me, including going on walks (he rode on my shoulder part of the way). He died of old age and my parents threw him out in the trash while I was at school. As luck would have it, I found him in there and buried him in a wooden box. But, again, it's an issue of people not understanding the bond between pets and their people.

[Beth]

Thanks to everyone who replied to my post. You have really helped me and now Hoshi (my hamster) is with me forever in my heart.

[Love Bird B]

Anyone that tells me that 'it's just a pet, get over it' usually is someone I don't want to be around.

I'm so sorry for your loss. Momcatt, your guinea pig must have been so happy to be with you.

[redsox9]

Love Bird,
Thank you for your kind words. I think your philosophy makes sense!

[SHGrrl]

I also had a hamster that died. It was real sad, and I kept feeling all guilty and rather forlorn. It was painstaking to walk into the kitchen and realise that Ben-Hur wasn't there any more! But yes, you do get over it, though you'll always remember your beloved pet!