Oftentimes, we look to human loss as a way to understand and validate the grief we feel when we lose a beloved companion animal. Although the grieving process after losing a companion animal may share similarities with human bereavement, research highlights distinct factors that set these experiences apart. For many, these differences can make the loss of a beloved animal companion even more painful and challenging to navigate than the loss of a person (Corbin, 2006).
One such difference is that the loss of a companion animal often falls under what is known as a disenfranchised loss — grief that is not widely acknowledged or supported by society. This lack of recognition can make the experience of grieving a beloved companion animal even more painful, as expressions of sadness are sometimes minimized or dismissed. Many people may not fully appreciate the deep and enduring bonds we form with our companion animals, and as a result, those who are grieving may not receive the sympathy, understanding, or support that is typically offered after human loss. For those who have loved a companion animal, the emotional, mental, and spiritual connections can be just as significant as any human relationship. These bonds are often woven into the fabric of daily life—through shared routines, mutual reliance, comforting companionship, and the profound sense of unconditional love that animals so freely give. The loss of such a relationship can leave a person feeling unmoored, deeply lonely, and longing for the presence and comfort their companion once provided. Without societal recognition or understanding, grieving pet owners can feel profoundly isolated and unsupported at a time when compassion is needed most. This absence of empathy can give rise to feelings of shame or embarrassment, causing some individuals to hide their pain or avoid talking about their loss altogether. These emotions, if left unaddressed, can make the grieving process even more difficult and drawn out. If you are mourning the loss of a companion animal, please know that your feelings are valid, and your grief is real. You are not alone in your sorrow. Reaching out for open, caring conversations and seeking compassionate support from friends, family, or support groups can help ease the burden of loneliness and foster healing.
Another significant difference between grieving the loss of a companion animal and grieving the loss of a human is the absence of formal opportunities to publicly memorialize and mourn a beloved companion animal. While human losses are often marked by funerals, wakes, or memorial services—rituals that offer communal support and a space to share memories—these types of commemorative events are rarely extended to companion animals. As a result, many grieving pet owners may not consider creating their own rituals or gatherings to honor their cherished companion, sometimes feeling that their grief is less worthy of recognition or fearing others may not understand. Yet, creating meaningful rituals, no matter how simple or private, can be a vital part of healing. Lighting a candle, planting a tree, writing a letter, making a scrapbook, or gathering with loved ones to share stories about a pet can offer comfort and help honor the special place these animals hold in our lives. These personal or shared memorials provide a gentle space to express affection and gratitude, receive support, and acknowledge the reality of the loss. When the healing aspect of memorializing a pet is overlooked, the absence of these supportive rituals can deepen feelings of isolation, loneliness, or unresolved grief. It is important to recognize the value of these rituals and to encourage personal or community-based ways to remember and honor beloved companion animals. By doing so, we can gently support those who are mourning and help create space for healing, understanding, and compassion.
While these are not all the reasons, the points above help illustrate why losing a companion animal can feel different and sometimes more difficult than losing a person. If you are grieving a beloved companion animal, please know that your feelings are valid and deserving of gentle care. Connecting with others who understand—whether in person or online—can bring comfort and help you feel less alone. Creating personal rituals, such as writing a letter, holding a small ceremony, or sharing memories with friends, can be meaningful steps toward healing. If your sadness feels overwhelming or persistent, reaching out to a therapist who understands pet loss can provide valuable support. By noticing and honoring these differences, we can all help foster kindness and compassion for those mourning a companion animal, supporting each other through this tender time.
A Phenomenological Study of Canine Loss and Grief Response: Clinical and Depth Psychological Implications (Corbin, J. 2006).
And I Love You Still…A Thoughtful Guide and Remembrance Journal for Healing the Loss of a Pet (Corbin, J., 2020).