THE death of a pet can be a heart-breaking and difficult experience to come to terms with, but to rush out and get another one straight away is not always the answer.

Too many people are urged by well meaning friends and relatives to adopt a new pet before they are truly ready. They think they are giving the right advice, but the whole process of grieving can be confusing and take a long time to work through.

Never surprise a grieving person with a new pet or suggest they should 'replace' their dead pet -- unintentionally it could make them feel their grief is being negated. By all means, offer emotional support and comfort, it will be most welcome.

If you are a bereaved pet owner, decide when the time is right for you to get another pet.

If hasty decisions are made, pets can end up unwanted and sent to rescue centres and sanctuaries. Accept that it will take time to bond with a new pet and understand that you are not 'betraying' your last one by loving a new one. Try not to pick one that looks like the one you have just lost and don't expect the new pet to be like your old one in ways, apart from anything else, kittens and puppies are very different to mature cats and dogs.

Whatever you decide, make sure it's your own decision and what is right for you and the new pet who will depend on you for the rest of its life.

J Harwood, Moor Park Avenue, Bispham