Pet animals form an integral part of many of our lives. It is easy to take their presence for granted – but we must all learn that sadly, most domestic animals have short life spans in comparison to humans. Losing a ‘family’ pet may therefore be one of the first ‘losses’ we experience as children. In later life, a companion animal may be our sole link with the outside world. In either case, a pet’s death may have as devastating effect as any human bereavement. The feelings, bodily reactions and social suffering are in many ways the same as if we had lost a close relative.
The Society for Companion Animals Studies is concerned with promoting a better understanding of the benefits and needs of both sides – animal and human – of this ‘bond’. In this booklet expert writers explore several important themes, which have previously been ignored, misunderstood or regarded as unimportant. We hope to project our strongly held view that the issues surrounding death of a loved companion animal are all-important to the well being of all members of our society.
The Society for Companion Animals Studies is concerned with promoting a better understanding of the benefits and needs of both sides – animal and human – of this ‘bond’. In this booklet expert writers explore several important themes, which have previously been ignored, misunderstood or regarded as unimportant. We hope to project our strongly held view that the issues surrounding death of a loved companion animal are all-important to the well being of all members of our society.
