The Emergence Of Companion Animals As Family In Japan
This study of the historical perception of companion animals in Japan is based on the tombstone inscriptions and burial practices for companion animals. Results show that these practices evolved over time from a form of prayer for the animal’s soul to an expression of grief by the owner.
In pre-modern Japanese society, companion animals had strong spiritual associations, and it was thought that “spiritual vengeance” from deceased companion animals could be warded off with memorial services. This examination of data from companion animal cemeteries from the early 20th century shows a transition from these types of ceremonies to those that are more common in present day, where owners memorialize their companion animal and express grief instead.