Archive · 19 Jan 2026
Study Suggests Grief for Pets Should Be Recognized
A new study in the UK says that losing a pet can be as sad as losing a family member.
The researchers think doctors should recognize this kind of sadness.
People who have pets often feel this sadness, but they might feel embarrassed to talk about it.
The study also mentions that knowing our pets won't live as long as us can make us feel sad even when we're happy with them.
It's like a deal we make: we love them knowing we'll have to say goodbye one day.
A UK study suggests grief for pets should be recognized as significant.
Losing a pet can be as devastating as losing a family member.
The study recommends expanding bereavement criteria for prolonged grief disorder to include pets.
People often feel embarrassed to express sadness over pet loss.
Anticipatory grief is common among pet owners due to pets' shorter lifespans.
- Who
- Researchers in the UK
- What
- Published a study suggesting grief for pets should be recognized
- When
- This month
- Where
- UK
- Why
- To acknowledge the emotional impact of pet loss
- Study Journal
- PLOS One
- Study Location
- UK
- Study Publication Month
- This month
- Condition
- Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)
- Pets Mentioned
- Dogs, Cats, Hamsters, Rabbits