Pets are family. The loss of a pet can be traumatizing because of this. When we start to objectively define loss for another as small or not significant, we miss the whole point of grief. Grief is a reaction to loss and the severity is connected to the level of love. A dog or cat or horse are all great companions. These type of higher intelligent companion pets have connections with the person that cannot be ignored. Lesser intelligent pets may not have the emotional connection, but as grief counselors, we need to recognize in particular cases the affect of the loss on the person.
So it is important that the loss of pets be taken far more seriously. An individual who loves his dog and lost his companion will suffer as much as a person who may have lost a brother. Just because some individuals do not love animals, does not invalidate the legitimate bond with our pets.
The article, “Why we should start recognising the loss of a pet as ‘real grief'” by Jill Stark looks at this type of loss more deeply and why it is so important to recognize. She states,
“There is often the expectation to keep feelings “in perspective” or to move on and “just get another one” – as if our pets are interchangeable non-entities we can replace like an old pair of socks.”
To read the entire article, please click here
I feel, these terms used by many towards the grieving over pets are insensitive and dodge the real loss and pain. One can never replace a family member and because of this, one can never replace a pet.
If you would like to learn more, please review our Pet Loss Grief Counseling Program