Why Losing a Pet Feels so Hard

If you’re here, then I don’t need to explain to you the strong emotional bond between humans and their pets. The depth of our grief when we lose them can be astonishing. Our pets provide us with unconditional love, and when they are gone, they leave a significant void in our personal lives.

I had to say goodbye to my dog Jasper on March 10, 2024. It was a heart-wrenching decision, and I know I’ll miss him every day for the rest of my life. For the past 15 years, Jasper was more than just a pet; he was an inseparable part of my journey. He entered my life just a month after I graduated college and was there for every major milestone — every job, every move, and every relationship, both beginning and end. Losing him has been the most profound and overwhelming experience I’ve ever faced.

My grief was intense. And it left me feeling isolated and often misunderstood.

Through research, I discovered I was not alone in this experience. The loss of a pet is categorized as disenfranchised grief — grief that is unacknowledged or invalidated by societal norms. Many people who lose a pet feel ashamed and fear being perceived as overly dramatic about how profoundly the loss affects their daily lives. Studies indicate that more than 75% of individuals experience intense grief lasting at least 12 months. This data isn’t meant to discourage anyone, but I share it to shed light and show you that what you are feeling is normal. The prevalence of intense grief after the death of a pet is not widely understood, making it challenging to find a sympathetic ear. The lack of acknowledgment and acceptance by others can prevent one from healing and processing loss, which is why I created this community, Jasper.

Jasper is a pet loss and bereavement support system that blends empathy, connection, and science to create a compassionate and supportive space. You’ll connect with others who know exactly what you’re going through and find ways to navigate grief at your own pace in a way that fits your lifestyle.

Countless studies have been published that highlight the effectiveness of community support in grief recovery. Strong social connections can significantly mitigate grief symptoms and help you adapt to life post-pet loss. Our vision is big. We want to transform how the world approaches grief, creating a global community where loss leads to personal growth, renewed purpose, and deeper connections.

You don’t need to go through this alone. Join our community, I hope to see you there.