The failure of a household pet can be as painful for many as the death of a loved one, and sometimes even more severe – according to a survey conducted in the UK and published in a technological journal.
Grief after the death of a dog, cat or another home animal can be comparable to grief from a household associate or close friend to those of the United Kingdom, according to a survey published in PLOS 1 magazine. More than a 5th of those surveyed who experienced both the failure of an animal and a loved 1 found the death of a pet more painful.
The survey was conducted in March 2024 among 975 adults in the United Kingdom, typical of the population. About 33% of respondents lost in the animal, almost everyone – besides individual in the ellipse of household or friends. Of those affected by both losses, 21% indicated stronger pain after the animal died, even though it was besides about parents, siblings or close friends.
The author of the study, scientist Philip Hyland of Maynooth University, emphasizes that the strength of emotional bond is crucial. Many owners consider animals to be “family members” present in everyday life and without “conflict relations”.
In 7.5% of the respondents, grief after failure was so deep that it met the criteria of long-term mourning disorder – a diagnosis formally attributed only after the death of people.
Source: PAP / Patrick Kulpok
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