Veterinary practices increasingly recognize pet loss grief as a significant welfare dimension of the human-animal bond requiring professional support.
Pet loss grief is a legitimate welfare concern — both for the dying animal and for the owner navigating end-of-life decisions. Owners who feel supported through the grieving process make better decisions for their animals, are more likely to pursue appropriate pain management, and are more capable of recognizing when quality of life has declined to the point that euthanasia is the most welfare-positive choice. Veterinary practices that invest in pet loss support resources serve both animal and human wellbeing simultaneously, recognizing that the human-animal bond is the context within which companion animal welfare decisions are made.