Can losing a pet lead to prolonged grief disorder (PGD) as identified by researchers?

Yes, a study found that 7.5% of people who lost a pet met the criteria for probable prolonged grief disorder, similar to grief after human loss.

How do people in the U.K. feel about pet loss compared to human loss?

In the U.K. study, over one in five participants found losing a pet more distressing than losing a human loved one.

What does the research suggest for clinicians regarding pet grief?

Researchers urge clinicians to take pet-related grief seriously, as it can trigger symptoms consistent with prolonged grief disorder.

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Losing a Pet Can Trigger Real Grief Disorder

17 Jan

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Summary

Over one in five pet owners found pet loss more distressing than human loss.
7.5% of grieving pet owners met criteria for prolonged grief disorder.
Pet loss sufferers are 27% more likely to meet PGD diagnostic requirements.

Losing a Pet Can Trigger Real Grief Disorder

Losing a companion animal can be a deeply impactful experience, with research suggesting the grief may be comparable to the loss of a human family member. A study analyzing survey data from 975 adults in the U.K. revealed that more than 20% of participants considered losing their pet the most distressing bereavement they had faced, even when compared to human losses.

The study identified that approximately 7.5% of individuals who had lost a pet met the diagnostic threshold for probable prolonged grief disorder (PGD). This rate is notably similar to grief outcomes following the death of close human relatives and friends, indicating a significant psychological impact. Participants who experienced pet loss were found to be 27% more likely to meet the criteria for PGD.

Symptoms of prolonged grief, such as intense emotional pain and persistent longing for the deceased, were observed to be consistent regardless of whether the loss involved a pet or a person. Researchers emphasize that clinicians should take pet-related grief seriously, particularly when symptoms interfere with daily functioning, underscoring the profound emotional weight of this type of bereavement.