Losing a pet can hit you just as hard as losing a family member. You share routines, laughs, and quiet moments with your furry friend every single day. For many people, pets become the closest companions—38% of dog owners even put their dogs above any human relationship. Take a look at the chart below to see how common these feelings are:

If you feel lost or heartbroken, you are not alone. Many people turn to custom Pet Stuffed Animals, a custom Pet Memorial Stone, custom Pet ID Tags, or custom Pet Pillows for comfort and connection during this time.

Key Takeaways

• Losing a pet can feel as painful as losing a family member because pets offer unconditional love and daily companionship.
• Pets help create daily routines that give life structure and comfort, making their loss disrupt your normal habits.
• Grief after losing a pet affects both emotions and the body, causing sadness, guilt, sleep problems, and changes in appetite.
• Many people see pets as family members, and the memories shared with them stay with them forever.
• Feelings of guilt and regret after end-of-life decisions are common; seeking support can help you heal.
• Society often misunderstands pet grief, which can make you feel isolated, but talking with others who understand eases the pain.
• Memorializing your pet through keepsakes or rituals helps honor their memory and supports your healing process.
• If grief feels overwhelming or lasts too long, professional help and support groups can provide guidance and comfort.

Human-Animal Bond

Unconditional Love

Your pet never judges you. No matter what kind of day you have, your furry friend greets you with a wagging tail or a gentle purr. This kind of love feels pure and simple. You do not have to earn it. You do not have to explain yourself. Your pet just wants to be near you. That feeling can lift your mood, even on the hardest days.

Many people say their pets know when they feel sad or stressed. Maybe your dog curls up next to you when you cry. Maybe your cat sits on your lap when you feel lonely. Pets seem to sense your emotions and respond with comfort. This bond is special. It is not like any other relationship. You trust your pet, and your pet trusts you.

“Sometimes, your pet is the only one who truly listens.”

Daily Routines

You build your day around your pet. You wake up to feed them. You take them for walks. You play with them after school or work. These small moments become habits. They give your day structure and meaning.

Research shows that pets help people create healthy routines. Feeding, walking, and caring for your pet gives you a reason to get up and move. This structure can help you feel less anxious. It makes your day feel more predictable and safe. For many people, especially those living alone, pets fill the house with life and activity.

• Morning: Your cat meows for breakfast.
• Afternoon: Your dog waits by the door for a walk.
• Evening: You both relax together on the couch.

When your pet is gone, these routines suddenly stop. The house feels empty. You may find yourself reaching for a leash or calling your pet’s name out of habit. This change can make the loss feel even deeper.

Emotional Support

Pets do more than just keep you company. They help you feel calm and safe. Studies show that spending time with pets can lower your stress. Your body releases oxytocin, the “bonding hormone,” when you cuddle or play with your pet. At the same time, your stress hormone, cortisol, goes down. This helps you feel happier and more relaxed.

Pets also help people cope with tough times. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people said their pets made them feel less lonely. Therapy animals in hospitals and care homes help patients feel better, both physically and emotionally. For people with anxiety, depression, or PTSD, pets can be a lifeline.

Your pet is more than just an animal. They are your friend, your helper, and your comfort. This deep bond explains why losing a pet can hurt so much.

Losing a Pet and Grief

Emotional Impact

Losing a pet can shake your world. You might feel a wave of sadness that comes out of nowhere. Sometimes, you feel lonely even when people are around. You may notice yourself getting angry or snapping at others. Some days, you just feel empty inside. These feelings are normal. You loved your pet, so it makes sense that you hurt when they are gone.

You might find yourself thinking you hear your pet’s paws on the floor or see their shadow in the hallway. Your mind plays tricks because your heart misses them so much. You may even avoid places in your home that remind you of your pet. Many people feel guilt or regret, wondering if they could have done more. All these emotions can feel overwhelming.

Grief after losing a pet can be just as strong as when you lose a person you love. Studies show that people who lose a pet are three times more likely to feel symptoms of depression. The pain can last a long time, and it can change how you see the world.

Physical Effects

Grief does not just live in your mind. It can show up in your body, too. You might notice you have trouble sleeping, or you wake up in the night thinking about your pet. Your appetite may change. Some people eat less, while others eat more. Headaches and stomach aches are common, especially in children. You may feel tired all the time, even if you rest.

Here are some physical and emotional symptoms you might notice:

• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty sleeping or nightmares
• Sadness or loneliness
• Shock or disbelief
• Anger or irritability
• Guilt
• Intense longing for your pet
• Trouble focusing on school or work
• Social withdrawal
• Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy

These symptoms can last for weeks or even months. For some people, the grief becomes so strong that it affects daily life. Children can feel the loss just as deeply as adults, sometimes even more. Some kids may act younger than their age or become fearful after losing a pet.

Disrupted Life

Your pet was part of your daily routine. When you lose them, everything feels different. You might wake up and forget for a moment that your pet is gone. You may reach for a leash or a food bowl out of habit. The house feels quieter. The days seem longer.

Losing a pet can make you feel lost. You may not want to do things you used to enjoy. You might avoid friends or family because you do not want to talk about your loss. Some people feel numb or disconnected from the world. This is called complicated grief. It can last a long time and make it hard to move forward.

It is okay to feel this way. Grief is a sign of the love and bond you shared with your pet. You are not alone, and your feelings are real.

Pets as Family

Shared Memories

You probably have a hundred little stories about your pet. Maybe you remember the first time you brought them home. You might laugh when you think about the silly things they did, like chasing their tail or hiding in a box. These moments become part of your life. They fill your days with joy and comfort.

Many people feel the same way. Surveys show just how important pets are in our lives:

• 95% of pet owners worldwide say their pets are part of their family.
• 92% would never give up their pet, no matter what.
• 90% feel a close relationship with their pet.
• About 51% of U.S. pet owners say their pets are as much a part of their family as any human.
• 97% of pet owners in the U.S. describe their pets as family members.

You can see that you are not alone in feeling this way. People from all over the world share strong bonds with their pets. These memories and connections do not fade easily. When you lose a pet, you lose a friend who shared your happiest and hardest days.

"Every walk, every cuddle, every silly moment—these memories stay with you forever."

Identity and Purpose

Your pet shapes who you are. You might call yourself a "dog mom" or a "cat dad." You may even have a mug or a T-shirt that shows your love for your furry friend. Your pet gives you a sense of identity. You feel proud to care for them and to be their person.

Pets also give you purpose. You wake up early to feed them. You plan your day around their needs. You celebrate their birthdays and worry when they feel sick. These daily acts of care make you feel needed and important. Your pet depends on you, and you depend on them for love and companionship.

When your pet is gone, you might feel lost. You may wonder who you are without them. This feeling is normal. Losing a pet can leave a big hole in your life. It is not just about missing their presence. It is about missing the role you played and the love you shared.

"Your pet is not just an animal. They are a part of your story and your heart."

Guilt and Regret

End-of-Life Choices

Saying goodbye to your pet is one of the hardest things you will ever do. You want to do what is best for them, but making end-of-life choices can fill you with doubt. You might wonder if you made the right decision or if you acted too soon. Sometimes, you wish you could go back and change things. These feelings are normal, and you are not alone.

Many pet owners experience a mix of emotions during this time. You may feel guilt, regret, or even relief. Relief can surprise you, but it is a healthy sign that your pet is no longer suffering. Still, guilt often sneaks in, making you question your actions. You might replay the last days over and over in your mind, searching for answers.

“Did I do enough? Did I wait too long? Should I have tried something else?”

Researchers have found that these thoughts are common. Here are some feelings you might notice:

• Guilt: You blame yourself or wish you could redo your decisions.
• Regret: You think about what you “should have, could have, or would have” done differently.
• Doubt: You second-guess your choices and fear making mistakes.
• Shame: You judge yourself and worry that you were not a good pet parent.
• Relief: You feel comfort knowing your pet is at peace, but this can also bring guilt.

A national survey showed that most pet owners mourn privately. Many seek support from friends or family, and some find comfort by adopting a new pet. Grief after euthanasia can feel just as strong as losing a person you love, especially if you shared a deep bond with your pet.

Self-Blame

Self-blame can weigh heavily on your heart. You might replay every moment, looking for things you missed. Maybe you wish you had spent more time with your pet or noticed their pain sooner. These thoughts can make you feel stuck and alone.

Here is what often happens:

1. You question your decision about euthanasia and feel responsible for your pet’s passing.
2. You regret not giving more attention or love in their final days.
3. You move through different phases—making the decision, preparing for loss, saying goodbye, mourning, and sometimes bringing a new pet home.
4. You might find that creating a memorial or burying your pet at home helps you feel calmer and brings a sense of closure.
5. Relief may come, but it can sit side by side with guilt and regret.

You do not have to carry these feelings alone. Talking with others who understand, joining a support group, or reaching out to a counselor can help. Acknowledging your emotions is the first step to healing. Remember, loving your pet means you cared deeply, and that love will always be part of your story.

It is okay to feel sad, guilty, or even relieved. These emotions show how much your pet meant to you. Give yourself permission to grieve and seek support when you need it.

Societal Views

Misunderstanding Pet Grief

Have you ever felt like people just don’t get it when you talk about losing a pet? You might hear things like, “It was just a dog,” or “You can always get another cat.” These words can sting. Many people who have never had a close bond with an animal might not understand how deep your pain goes. They may think you should move on quickly or that your grief is not as important as when you lose a person.

You know your feelings are real. Your pet was part of your family. When others brush off your sadness, it can make you question your own emotions. You might even feel embarrassed for missing your pet so much. This is called disenfranchised grief. It means your loss is not fully accepted or understood by society.

Tip: Remember, your grief is valid. You do not need anyone’s permission to feel sad or to miss your pet.

Some people try to hide their feelings because they worry about being judged. You might keep your tears to yourself or avoid talking about your pet. This can make the pain even harder to handle.

Feeling Isolated

When you lose a pet, you might feel alone in your grief. Friends and family may not know what to say. Some might avoid the topic altogether. You could start to pull away from others because you think they won’t understand. This isolation can make your sadness feel even heavier.

Here are some signs you might feel isolated after losing a pet:

• You avoid social events because you do not want to answer questions.
• You feel like no one else understands your pain.
• You keep your memories and feelings to yourself.

But you do not have to go through this alone. There are ways to break the silence and find support:

1. Talk to other pet lovers. They often understand what you are feeling.
2. Join a pet loss support group. Many people share their stories and listen without judgment.
3. Share your memories. Post a photo or story online. You might be surprised by how many people reach out.
4. Educate others. Let friends and family know how much your pet meant to you. Sometimes, people just need to hear your story to understand.

Note: It is okay to ask for help. You deserve kindness and support as you heal.

You can help change how people see pet loss. By sharing your feelings and reaching out, you show others that grieving a pet is natural and important. Over time, more people will learn to respect and support those who are hurting.

Coping with Loss

Memorializing Pets

When you lose a pet, you might feel like a piece of your heart is missing. Finding ways to remember your pet can help you heal. Many people create special rituals or keepsakes to honor their furry friends. These acts give you a way to express your love and keep your pet’s memory alive.

You can try different ways to memorialize your pet:

• Hold a small ceremony or say a few words about your pet.
• Make a photo album or a shadow box with your pet’s favorite toys.
• Plant a tree or flowers in your yard as a living tribute.
• Keep your pet’s ashes in a special urn or wear memorial jewelry.
• Set up a small space at home with your pet’s picture and collar.

People all over the world use these rituals. In Japan, families hold Buddhist pet funerals with prayers and ceremonies. Ancient Egyptians even mummified their cats and had special mourning rituals. Today, many people write pet obituaries or talk about the Rainbow Bridge to find comfort. These traditions show that honoring pets is a natural part of grieving.

Research shows that memorializing pets helps you feel less lonely and makes your grief easier to handle. When you focus on happy memories, you can turn sadness into love and gratitude. Memorials give you a sense of closure and help you move forward.

Lookipet offers a heartfelt way to keep your pet close. Their handmade stuffed animal replicas capture every detail of your pet, from the sparkle in their eyes to the shape of their ears. You can hug these plush keepsakes whenever you miss your friend. Lookipet also creates custom pet memorial stones, pet ID tags, and pet pillows. Each item is made with care, so you can celebrate your pet’s life in a way that feels right for you.

Support Systems

You do not have to face grief alone. Support from others can make a big difference when you are missing your pet. Friends, family, and even strangers who love animals can help you feel understood. Sometimes, just talking about your pet and sharing stories can lift your spirits.

Here are some ways to find support:

• Join a pet loss support group, either in person or online.
• Write a letter to your pet, telling them how much you miss them.
• Share photos and memories with other pet lovers.
• Ask friends or family to listen when you need to talk.

People who have lost pets say that support systems help them heal. One person who worked with animals shared that friends, family, and coworkers helped them remember the good times and feel less alone. Personalized keepsakes, like a Lookipet plush replica or a custom pillow, can also bring comfort. These items remind you of the love you shared and give you something to hold onto during tough moments.

“I feel supported by my dogs. Simply because the love is unconditional.”

Pets give you comfort when you need it most. When you lose that support, it helps to reach out to others who understand.

Allowing Grief

Grieving is a normal part of losing a pet. You might feel sad, angry, or even guilty. Some days, you may want to cry or just sit quietly with your thoughts. Permit yourself to feel whatever comes up. There is no right or wrong way to grieve.

Try these tips to help you through the process:

• Let yourself cry if you need to.
• Talk about your pet with people who care.
• Take care of your body by eating and resting.
• Remember that healing takes time.

You might notice that some days are harder than others. That is okay. Healing is not a straight line. If you find comfort in holding a Lookipet stuffed animal or looking at a memorial stone, let yourself enjoy those moments. Many people say these keepsakes help them feel close to their pets and bring peace to their hearts.

Losing a pet is never easy, but you can find ways to cope. By honoring your pet’s memory, reaching out for support, and allowing yourself to grieve, you take important steps toward healing.

When to Seek Help

Complicated Grief

Sometimes, grief after losing a pet feels like it will never end. You might notice that your sadness stays strong for months. You may find it hard to get out of bed or do things you used to enjoy. If you feel stuck in your grief, you could be experiencing what experts call "complicated grief."

You might wonder, “How do I know if my grief is more than normal sadness?” Here are some signs to watch for:

• Your sadness lasts longer than what most people expect, sometimes even a year or more.
• You feel deep pain or longing for your pet almost every day.
• You have trouble accepting that your pet is gone.
• You avoid reminders of your pet, like their favorite spot or toys.
• You feel numb, bitter, or blame yourself for your pet’s death.
• You struggle to connect with friends or family.
• You lose interest in things that once made you happy.
• You feel like you have lost a part of yourself.

Tip: If you notice these feelings, you are not alone. Many people go through complicated grief after losing a beloved pet.

Grief can also make it hard to focus at school or work. You might feel tired all the time or want to be alone. These feelings are normal at first, but if they do not get better, it may be time to reach out for help.

Professional Support

You do not have to handle this pain by yourself. Therapists and counselors who understand pet loss can help you find ways to cope. They listen without judgment and offer support that fits your needs. Talking to a professional does not mean you are weak. It means you care about your well-being.

Here are some reasons to consider getting help:

• Your grief makes it hard to do daily tasks.
• You feel stuck and cannot move forward.
• You notice changes in your sleep, appetite, or mood that do not improve.
• You feel alone or misunderstood by others.
• You want to talk to someone who truly understands pet loss.

Professionals use proven methods, like Complicated Grief Treatment, to help you heal. They teach you coping skills and guide you through your feelings. Many people find that just having someone to talk to makes a big difference.

Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength. You deserve support as you work through your grief. If you feel overwhelmed, reaching out to a counselor or support group can help you find hope and healing.

Honoring the Bond

Validating Grief

You might wonder if your feelings are normal after losing a pet. The answer is yes. Your grief is real and deserves respect. Many people feel lost or even embarrassed because others do not always understand the pain of pet loss. Sometimes, society treats this grief as less important. That can make you feel alone or even guilty for missing your pet so much.

Research shows that the bond between you and your pet shapes your daily life and happiness. When you lose that bond, your world changes. If people around you do not recognize your pain, it can make healing harder. You need validation. When someone listens to your story or simply says, “I understand,” it helps you accept your loss. Support groups, hotlines, or even a caring friend can make a big difference.

“Your grief matters. You do not need to rush or hide your feelings.”

You can also find comfort by connecting with others who have lost pets. Sharing memories or joining a pet loss group helps you see that you are not alone. These groups let you talk about your pet, cry if you need to, and hear stories from people who truly get it. Even small acts, like a friend sending a card or calling to check on you, can help you feel supported.

Here are some ways to validate your grief:

• Talk with friends who understand pet loss.
• Join a pet loss support group, online or in person.
• Keep in touch with pet communities, like dog parks or training classes.
• Let others help you, even with small gestures.
• Try mindfulness or remembrance activities, like dedicating a walk to your pet.

Moving Forward

Healing does not mean forgetting your pet. You carry their love and memories with you. Moving forward is about finding new ways to honor that bond while taking care of yourself. There is no set timeline for grief. Some days will feel harder than others, and that is okay.

You can create new routines that bring comfort. Maybe you start a journal about your favorite moments with your pet. You might plant a flower in their memory or keep a special keepsake, like a Lookipet stuffed animal replica, close by. These actions help you hold onto the love while making space for new joys.

Remember, you do not have to “move on” or forget. You move forward by carrying your pet’s spirit with you. Every step you take honors the special bond you shared.

Grieving your pet is natural. You feel this pain because your bond runs deep. Psychologists say you lose a source of comfort, love, and security. Many people see their pets as family, even like a child.

• Losing daily routines makes the loss harder.
• Dogs and cats read your emotions, making the connection strong.
• Research shows that losing a pet can hurt as much as losing a person.

Take time to honor your feelings. Reach out for support. Your grief shows how much you loved your friend.

FAQ

How long does it take to get over losing a pet?

Everyone heals at their own pace. Some people feel better in weeks, while others need months or longer. Your feelings are normal. Take your time and be gentle with yourself.

Is it normal to feel more upset about losing a pet than a person?

Yes, it’s normal. Pets give you unconditional love and become part of your daily life. Your grief shows how much you cared. You’re not alone in feeling this way.

What can I do with my pet’s belongings after they pass?

You can keep special items, donate them, or create a memory box. Some people turn collars or toys into keepsakes. Do what feels right for you.

Will getting another pet help me heal?

A new pet can bring joy, but it won’t replace your lost friend. Wait until you feel ready. Healing first helps you welcome a new companion with an open heart.

How can I help my child cope with losing a pet?

Talk openly and answer questions honestly. Let your child share memories or draw pictures. Rituals, like planting a flower or making a scrapbook, can help children say goodbye.

Are there ways to keep my pet’s memory alive?

Absolutely! You can make a photo album, write stories, or get a Lookipet handmade stuffed animal replica. Memorial stones and custom pillows also help you remember your pet every day.

When should I seek professional help for my grief?

If you feel stuck, can’t do daily tasks, or your sadness lasts a long time, reach out to a counselor. Support groups and therapists understand pet loss and can help you heal.