Why is losing a pet so traumatizing?

How long does pet grief last?

A small 2019 study of 82 people found that the length of intense grief experienced by bereaved pet owners varies —with 25 % taking between 3 months to a year, 50% between one year and 19 months, and 25 % between two and six years. It's no wonder that pet loss therapy is an emerging field.

Does grieving a pet get easier?

The grief process is not linear. You may meander in and out of the stages of grief, going back and forth, rather than experiencing each stage in sequential order. It's not uncommon to start to feel better, and then feel like a wave of grief has washed over you again.

Do you ever stop grieving a pet?

Many people still experience intense symptoms of grief for a year or more following a pet's death. Some people may find that getting another pet can help the healing process. Others may find that they aren't ready to form a relationship with a new pet for a long time.

Do you ever heal from losing a pet?

Some people start to feel better in weeks or months. For others, the grieving process is measured in years. Whatever your grief experience, it's important to be patient with yourself and allow the process to naturally unfold. Feeling sad, shocked, or lonely is a normal reaction to the loss of a beloved pet.