The Loss of a Pet

The death of a pet leaves few people totally untouched, and the chance of most of us experiencing the death of a pet in our lifetime is high, and should never be underestimated. After all, pets are members of our families and when they die, it can leave a gap in our lives so big that some people never replace their beloved pet. This is because they feel that they could not go through the mourning process and traumatic experience again.

Research shows that there are 8 million domestic cats and about 7 million dogs in the U.K.

With about 1.5 million each of rabbits, birds, guinea pigs and hamsters, and no less than 30 million pet fish; it is therefore no surprise that we are regarded as a nation of animal lovers.

Of the estimated 1.5 million pet cats and dogs who die each year in the U.K., about 300,000 are buried at home in garden graves; 1,000 are buried in pet cemeteries; and approximately 100,000 are individually cremated. Many of the remaining pets are usually disposed of by either mass cremation or mass burial which can be arranged by the local veterinary practice.

The death of a pet affects us all differently; some people may say, ‘it was just a cat’, or ‘it’s just a dog’ or even, ‘it’s just a bird’. However, losing a pet can be every bit as devastating as losing a human loved one, and in many cases, our pet is just a much as part of the family. Some of us even treat our pet as if it were our child.

Sadly, the grief of losing a pet may be compounded by the lack of response from a friend or family member. The death of a pet can even revive painful memories and unresolved conflicts from the past that amplify people’s current emotional upheaval.

Just in the same way that many of us may seek professional counseling following the death of a family member, pet grief support groups or veterinary bereavement counselors are also available. Remember, your life was and will continue to be brighter because of the time that you shared with your pet. This is the best testament to the value of your pet's existence.

In recognising that bereavement due to the loss of a pet can often be as traumatic as that of losing a human loved one, we at Chelmsford Star Co-operative Funeral Services have extended our services to include practical guidance and advice on Pet Funerals. A range of pet coffins, ashes caskets and pet Memorials are available, including the LifeGem for Pets.

For more information please contact us Freephone
0800 028 4808.


Forget Me Not Coffin