Pet Grief FAQ

Why does pet grief hurt so much?

Pet grief hurts deeply because pets are constant companions who provide unconditional love, emotional safety, and daily connection. Losing a pet means losing a source of comfort, routine, and regulation, which impacts both the heart and the nervous system.

Think about it, your daily life and routine database is missing a major chunk. It’s only natural to be devastated by pet loss. It helps to know this is normal, and the pain is a testament to the love you experienced.

Is pet grief the same as losing a human?

Pet grief can be just as intense as losing a human loved one. For many people, pets are primary emotional bonds and safer attachments. The depth of pet grief reflects the depth of the relationship, not the species.

For folks who have an estranged family or limited social circles, I’d say pet grief hurts even more than some humans. Our animal companions’ love is unique among anything else on the planet. It can’t be compared, and it should be viewed as its own circumstance.

How long does pet grief last?

There is no timeline for pet grief. Some people feel intense grief for weeks, while others experience waves of pet grief for months or years. Grief often resurfaces around routines, anniversaries, or quiet moments once shared with your pet.

I often tell clients that a simple framework for timing pet grief. Take the number of years you’ve known them, and multiply that by months. For example, if you cared for them for 10 years, you can expect at least 10 months of full-time grief.

Of course, circumstances change that timeline — like trauma, sickness, and accidents. What’s important is that you remember that while sometimes it never goes away, it changes and becomes more manageable.

There are techniques I teach to help assimilate your new normal, too. Like schedules, breathwork, journaling, and herbal remedies.

Is it normal to feel physical symptoms with pet grief?

Yes. Pet grief often includes physical symptoms such as anxiety, fatigue, tightness in the chest, digestive changes, or trouble sleeping. These symptoms occur because grief affects the nervous system, not just emotions.

Oftentimes, clients struggle with sleep the most, and second is anxiety. It’s important to recognize these sensations in the body. When you can expect death to come, there are herbal remedies and movement practices that can help prepare your emotional threshold.

Know that symptoms can come and go, and even change over days or weeks. It’s important to be careful and kind to your body in the beginning days of grief.

Why do people minimize pet grief?

Pet grief is often minimized because society does not always recognize the depth of human-animal bonds. This type of loss is considered disenfranchised grief, meaning it is real but not always socially validated.

The pain can sometimes feel worse because of the minimization. It’s important that you grieve your pet as you see fit, or learn how to get support from a professional. It’s one of the main reasons I offer 1:1 animal grief and loss sessions called A Bond Beyond Words.

Can pet grief bring up past trauma or losses?

Pet grief can reopen earlier losses, attachment wounds, or unresolved grief. Because pets often provide emotional safety, their loss can touch very tender places within the body and psyche.

Sometimes grief can compound, and hit us when we least expect it. Being aware of routines, self-care habits, and external support at any time of grief is helpful. Especially with pet grief and loss, it can sneak up and bring up old wounds. It’s important to note that this is normal.

How can I cope with pet grief?

Coping with pet grief often involves nervous system support, ritual, remembrance, gentle movement, breathwork, and being witnessed in your grief. Whole body support can help regulate emotions while honoring the bond you shared. You can learn more about pet grief and how I help you support yourself during this time by clicking here.

If you’re interested in support, I offer a 1:1 pet grief session called A Bond Beyond Words.

Should I seek support for pet grief?

Support can be very helpful if pet grief feels overwhelming, isolating, or long-lasting. Working with someone who understands pet grief can provide validation, tools, and a compassionate space for healing.

I offer compassionate, whole-body support for pet grief. This work is designed for those who want their grief to be seen, honored, and held with care.

Using astrology, herbalism, breathwork, gentle movement, and grief-informed practices, I support your body and emotions as you navigate life after loss.

Pet grief & loss is met with patience, presence, and deep respect for the bond you shared.

Can pet grief show up long after my pet has passed?

Yes. Pet grief can surface long after the loss, especially during life transitions, changes in routine, or moments when you miss your pet’s presence. This is a normal part of grief, not a setback.