You Look After Them While They’re Alive. Who Looks After You When They’re Gone?
May marks both Mental Health Awareness Month and Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK, with this year’s theme centred around one important word: Action. As veterinary professionals, it is something we see reflected every day in the bond between people and their pets.
Research has consistently shown the positive impact pets can have on mental wellbeing. In a 2022 UK survey, 87% of dog owners and 82% of cat owners said their pets had positively benefited their mental health. Companionship, routine, comfort and unconditional affection all play a role, and for many people, pets become part of the very foundation of daily life.
That will likely come as no surprise to pet owners, but what is spoken about less openly is what happens when that bond is lost. Our pets become such an integral part of our lives and emotional wellbeing that the impact of facing illness, anticipatory grief, or the loss of a beloved companion can feel overwhelming. Pet loss grief is real, profound and often deeply isolating.
At Portland Vets, we do not believe anybody should have to navigate that alone.
That is why we have in-practice Bereavement Advisors, trained by the Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Service, who offer complimentary support to our clients before, during and after the loss of a pet.
Portland Vets clients are encouraged to reach out to us by phone, email or through our app, so that we can arrange for you to receive support. You can also access support directly through the Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Service, who have a free support telephone line, staffed by volunteers who know and understand what you are going through.
Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Service
Alternatively, you can find lots of helpful information, advice and resources through The Ralph Site online.
This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week theme was Action.
We would encourage anyone struggling with pet loss to reach out.
Take action, so that you do not have to go through grief alone.