Losing a companion animal can be one of the greatest losses we’ll experience in life. While everyone grieves in their own way, research shows that many people grieve the loss of a pet more so than a human family member. There are varied reasons for this including the fact that animals provide unconditional love to their humans. It’s not that we don’t suffer from losing a family member or friend, but often emotional baggage and family drama get in the way of that grieving process.

Another reason for the stronger reaction to the loss of a pet is fewer socially acceptable outlets for pet loss grief.  When we lose a human loved one, we have rituals in place to help us cope—memorial services, funerals, celebrations of life, etc. But how many of us have lost a four-legged companion and were told by co-workers, family, or friends to get over it, “it was just a cat” or “just a dog”?

I’ve lived with animals my entire life, so I’ve lost numerous cats, dogs, gerbils—you name it. For me, the loss doesn’t get easier each time we lose a pet, as some might suggest. On the contrary, the hole in my heart just gets bigger. I keep telling myself I won’t go through that again. Well, guess what? I do put myself through it again and again, because there are so many loving animals who need good homes. Rather than diminishing the memory of a beloved pet, saving another life honors all of the ones you’ve lost.

To observe Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day on August 28, we’re inviting people to share stories and photos of special companions they’ve lost. We’ll feature some of those stories on our Facebook page in the week leading up to the 28th. Please send your stories and images (suitable for social media, please) to info@harleys-hopefoundation.org.