Beyond Four Walls: Extending Support Through Aftercare (part 5 of 6)
Grief, sadness, remorse, and other feelings do not begin and end within a single space. They extend beyond physical walls, shaping how we remember, process, and heal. At Eternal Tides, we recognize that aftercare is more than a service—it is an ongoing act of support that continues well after losing a companion animal. By thoughtfully bridging physical space with emotional care, we provide a foundation for healing that reaches into the daily lives of those mourning their beloved companions.
Environmental psychologist Kaplan (1995) suggests that restorative environments—places that encourage reflection and emotional renewal—extend beyond structured spaces into nature and personal rituals. This idea informs our approach at Eternal Tides, where we encourage families to create their own remembrance practices, whether by scattering “cremains” (ashes) in a meaningful location, planting a memorial garden, or crafting personal tributes. These acts transform grief into an ongoing relationship with memory.
Another essential aspect of aftercare is the role of community. According to Stroebe and Schut’s (1999) Dual Process Model of Grief, healing occurs in a balance between confronting loss and engaging with life. This underscores the importance of support networks, which Eternal Tides fosters through grief resources, memorial events, and online spaces where pet owners can share stories and honor their pets.
Additionally, digital remembrance has emerged as a meaningful extension of aftercare. Scholars like Walter et al. (2012) explore how virtual memorials help individuals maintain bonds with loved ones, including pets, by creating lasting digital tributes. Eternal Tides embraces this by providing digital options for remembrance, ensuring that grief support extends beyond our walls and into the spaces where people find comfort.
True aftercare is not confined to a single moment or location. It lives in the memories we hold, the spaces we create, and the ongoing support that helps individuals navigate grief in their own way. At Eternal Tides, we are committed to ensuring that aftercare is not just about saying goodbye, but about keeping love alive in meaningful, lasting ways.
References
Kaplan, S. (1995). The restorative benefits of nature: Toward an integrative framework. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 15(3), 169-182. https://doi.org/10.1016/0272-4944(95)90001-2
Stroebe, M., & Schut, H. (1999). The dual process model of coping with bereavement: Rationale and description. Death Studies, 23(3), 197-224. https://doi.org/10.1080/074811899201046
Walter, T., Hourizi, R., Moncur, W., & Pitsillides, S. (2012). Does the internet change how we die and mourn? Overview and analysis. OMEGA - Journal of Death and Dying, 64(4), 275-302. https://doi.org/10.2190/OM.64.4.a
Worden, J. W. (2018). Grief counseling and grief therapy: A handbook for the mental health practitioner (5th ed.). Springer.
