It is essential that you remain calm in the event of an unexpected loss. Be a good listener and pay close attention to what people are telling you, and deal with the advice patiently.
"Keep Calm and Carry On"
Don’t get caught up in the minor details, remain focused on the important problems.
This advice isn’t always easy to hear, but it is crucial to your well being during and potentially long after you and your family recover from water, fire, or other forms of property loss.
How to care for you and your family during this adjustment:
- First and foremost, attempt to return to your family routines and your individual routines as soon as possible
- Get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids
- Remain focused on the positive
- Accept help from other people
- Limit the exposure you have to the sights and sounds of the disaster
- Allow yourself to feel your feelings; do not numb them until ‘later’
- Stay closely connected with family and any other support networks; this assists in stabilizing your family and makes recovery more comfortable
Your pets are emotionally affected by the loss, just like their family is
Scared or frightened pets may react by either scratching or biting, so it is your responsibility to try and comfort them. If at all possible it may be easier to leave your pet in the care of another while you are in the process of cleaning your home.
- A family member
- A friend
- Or their veterinarian
Additional ways you can succeed in reassuring your family pets
- Ensure you pet is receiving their usual food in a pattern as near to normal as possible, and plenty of fresh water
- To comfort your pet use items like; toys, a favorite blanket, or an item of clothing that smells like family
- Be attentive to your pet and ensure you are visiting them or spending time with them regularly