This article discusses the effects of the loss of a companion animal on a family, and includes the results of a survey conducted at a veterinary clinic. In this poll, 20% of companion animal guardians said they experienced significant grief after the death of a companion animal.

The emotional impacts of the loss of a companion animal are discussed in this article. In a survey of 106 companion animal guardians conducted at a veterinary clinic, 20% said they experienced significant grief after the loss of a companion animal, and 30% said they felt grief or sadness over this loss even six months or longer afterward. A small group of 5% reported significant grief symptoms including lack of sleep, bitterness and possible post-traumatic stress disorder. Seniors potentially suffer from more severe feelings of loss, particularly if they live alone.