If you’ve ever experienced the heartbreak that accompanies the loss of a pet, you are not alone. The RSPCA conducted a survey on pet grief using a group of 2,800 pet owners and found that
- 93% of participants reported feeling heartbroken or deeply sad
- 60% felt guilt
- 55% experienced loneliness
- 50% reported symptoms of depression or anxiety after losing a pet
The survey also found that approximately 75% of participants experienced anticipatory grief for their pet. Anticipatory grief is when you haven’t lost them yet, but you have feelings of intense grief due to knowing that you will one day.
This survey highlights what many of us already know to be true; our pets are family. The human-animal bond has prevailed throughout history across all continents and socioeconomic groups. We enjoy and derive mental, physical, emotional, and social benefits from our bond with animals. With a connection as deep as this, it seems only natural that we feel immense sadness once they are gone.
Grieving is a process and it’s important to remember that you don’t have to do it alone. If you or someone you know is experiencing the loss of a pet, please use this link to see/share a list of different resources and support groups for pet bereavement.
Link to RSPCA Study: https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/bereavement/survey
