The loss of a beloved animal companion causes genuine grief in many people, yet pet bereavement support remains stigmatised and underserved compared to human loss.
Human grief at animal loss is real, deep, and often unsupported by social structures that recognise human death but trivialise animal loss. The social invalidation of pet grief - 'it was just a dog' - can intensify suffering and delay recovery. Anticipatory grief before euthanasia, and guilt about end-of-life decisions, are additional burdens unique to companion animal bereavement. Normalising pet grief, extending formal support services, and training vets in bereavement communication are important welfare improvements for both humans and the animals they love.