#beekittens

It’s not a stupid question ;o;! I have trouble motivating myself after pet deaths as well :c

Take the time you need to mourn over the loss of your animal. It’s hard to focus on anything after you lose a little friend that meant the world to you. I’ve had a few rats die is the past few years, and depending on how long I had them or how attached made my reactions to their death’s vary. My first boy who I absolutely loved had a very sudden passing at only 6 or 8 months, but I got to spend his last few hours with him, and was able to skin him out that night because I did at least have the chance to say goodbye. I cried for hours after, but it was right in some numb-denial phase where I was able to do what I had to before I fully registered he was gone. My other 2 boys lived for much longer and both of them are still in my freezer because I had spent a couple years with them and it’s hard to think about trying to skin out animals knowing my babies will also go through that process eventually. 

So it’s ok to take a break because of your loss. Taxidermy can be an emotionally trying process as is, but add a pet death in the mix and every animal you see just reminds you of the animal you lost. There’s no shame in stepping away from your hobby to grieve and heal and if you’re not feeling the motivation, there’s no need to force yourself back into it. It just makes you feel worse (in my experience ;w;;;;)

I’m sorry about the loss of your pet. If you’re still feeling the fire for taxidermy I’d say write down your ideas and come back to them once you’ve healed and found your motivation again.