The Lived Experience of Grief After the Death of a Long-Term

Home , Animal grief, Grief

THE LIVED EXPERIENCE OF GRIEF AFTER THE DEATH OF A LONG-TERM

COMPANION ANIMAL

A dissertation presented to the faculty of

ANTIOCH UNIVERSITY SANTA BARBARA

in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of

DOCTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY in CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY

MELISSA REILLY MAY 2018

THE LIVED EXPERIENCE OF GRIEF AFTER THE DEATH OF A LONG-TERM

COMPANION ANIMAL

This dissertation, by Melissa Reilly, has been approved by the committee members signed below who recommend that it be accepted by the faculty of Antioch University Santa Barbara in partial fulfillment of requirements for the degree of

DOCTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY

Dissertation Committee:

______Elizabeth Bates Freed, Psy.D Chairperson

______Chris Howard, Psy.D Second Faculty

______Brenda Murrow Ph.D External Expert

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Abstract

This study of the lived experience of grief aims at a deep understanding of the experience of loss through an analysis of the themes that emerge across personal interviews. This researcher used this study of loss to look more closely at the relationship between humans and animals. By expanding on current literature this study offers a comprehensive qualitative analysis of this grief experience following the death of a beloved animal companion. This study has three goals: (1) highlight the universal aspects of this phenomenon, (2) expand upon the literature examining this powerful cross-species relationship and gain a deeper understanding of the bereavement process, and (3) offer clinicians and veterinarians the opportunity to better understand the grief experienced by pet owners and how to better help the pet owners prepare and cope with their loss. Previous research indicates the grief process following the loss of a companion animal is both complex and delicate. There is no one size fits all approach to grief. Understanding the variety of ways in which individuals grieve is the first step in aiding individuals to move forward into acceptance. This dissertation advances the understanding of this multifaceted bereavement process. This researcher conducted six in-depth interviews designed to draw upon the grief experience after the loss of a long- term companion animal. The findings from the interviews show the impact of grief can be complicated for some depending upon additional life stressors and previous experience with pets and grief. Additionally, each individual has a distinct and unique experience with grief. This Dissertation is available in Open Access at AURA: Antioch

University Repository and Archive, http://aura.antioch.edu and OhioLink ETD Center, http://www.ohiolink.edu/etd v

Dedication

There have been many people who have walked beside me during the last several years of my education. They have guided me, placed opportunities in front of me, and helped me open doors to my future. I would like to thank each and every one of them. I would especially like to thank Dr. Bates-Freed, Dr. Howard, and Dr. Murrow. Without your guidance, I would have been walking this road blindly for a long time. I would also like to thank my parents, Nick, Jacob, Noah, and Dr. Bishop without your encouragement this road would have seemed a lonely and impossible place.

Additionally, I would like to thank my participants, without whom this dissertation would not have been possible. Thank you for your courage and your vulnerability. Lastly, thank you to Miss Prissy, the inspiration for this dissertation. Your years of companionship and love will forever be unparalleled.

Table of Contents

Abstract ...... iv

Dedication ...... v

Table of Contents ...... vi

List of Tables ...... vii

Chapter 1: Introduction ...... 1

Purpose Statement...... 1 Brief Overview of the Human-Animal Bond ...... 1 Review of the Problem ...... 4 Research Questions ...... 8 Chapter 2: Literature Review ...... 9

The Grief Reaction ...... 9 Children ...... 21 Later-Life Individuals ...... 24 Euthanasia ...... 27 Factors for More Intense Grief ...... 31 Coping With the Loss ...... 35 Summary ...... 43 Chapter 3: Methodology ...... 45

Method ...... 45 Research Design ...... 47 Ethical Issues ...... 50 Chapter 4: Results ...... 51

Participants ...... 51 The Participants ...... 56 Objectives ...... 57 The Grief Reaction ...... 57 Euthanasia ...... 64 Natural Death ...... 69 vii

Factors for More Intense Grief ...... 70 Coping With the Loss ...... 72 Chapter 5: Discussion ...... 80

Introduction ...... 80 Overview of Findings ...... 80 Practice ...... 85 Research ...... 87 Experience of the Researcher ...... 88 Limitations of the Study ...... 89 Conclusion ...... 90 References: ...... 91 Appendix A Prescreening tool ...... 100 Appendix B Flyer ...... 101 Appendix C Paragraph for Veterinarian ...... 102 Appendix D Informed Consent ...... 103 Appendix E Demographic Information ...... 106 Appendix F Interview Questionnaire ...... 107

viii

List of Tables

Table 1 ...... 53 1

Chapter 1: Introduction

Purpose Statement

The purpose of this phenomenological study is to explore the lived experience of the grieving process after the death of a beloved companion animal. Open-ended interviews were conducted to illustrate the human experience of the bereavement process after losing a pet. This research sought to provide an articulated account of this phenomenon through themes that emerged across these interviews in hopes of promoting a deeper understanding of this grieving experience.

Brief Overview of the Human-Animal Bond

Since prehistoric times humans have used animals in a variety of ways to contribute to their overall health and well-being (Fine, 2010). Ancient shamans believed an animal spirit guide could protect and help to heal a sick soul (Fine, 2010). The

Ancient Greeks administered dog’s saliva to wounds (Fine, 2010). More recently,

Florence Nightingale offered the companionship of small animals to her patients for comfort (Fine, 2010). The animal-human bond continues to be important to pet owners today (Fine, 2010).

In the United States, up until the 20th century, animals were usually kept because they provided a useful service. They were valued for food, protection, hunting, and clothing (Pilgram, 2010). A shift in this type of thinking has occurred over the past

100 years (Chur-hansen, 2010).

Now more people are keeping animals solely as companions or pets (Brown,

2006, Clements, Benasutti, & Carmone, 2003). In Western countries, up to 70% of households include a companion animal, and in the United States more people live with 2 an animal than with a child (Brown, 2006). Most pet owners consider their pets, to be a part of their family (Toray, 2004). Dogs and cats are the most common family pets, also known as companion animals (King & Werner, 2011; Noonan, 2008; & Walsh, 2009).

Toray (2004) describes this bond clearly when she writes:

The term human-animal bond has been increasingly used to refer to the

types of relationships people have with their companion animals. This

bond involves an emotional attachment to a pet as well as a genuine

feeling of affection and a responsibility for the well-being of the animal (p.

245).

Sometimes companion animals have dual functionality; a guard dog can serve as both protector and friend (Stephens, 1996). Service dogs can also provide this type of dual functionality. Even pets without explicit dual roles can be beneficial to the individual’s physical health and emotional wellbeing (Donahue, 2005; Dunn & Greenburg 2005;

Morley, 2005). The importance of a pet is highlighted by the large amounts of time and money owners spend on their animals (Sable, 1995). According to the American Pet

Products Association, Americans spent $58.04 billion on their pets in 2014 and an estimated $60.59 billion in 2015 (American Pet Products Association, 2015).

Companion animals are often treated as if they were human children. Pets can fulfill the need to nurture. Noonan (2008) describes this when she says, “The intimacy and sensuality of touching, tickling, stroking, cuddling, talking, and gazing with a pet provides an outlet for these needs. Pets also make it socially and culturally acceptable to play, to be amused, to make a fool of oneself and to approach complete strangers for a chat” (p. 399). Companion animals can facilitate attachment formation in a 3 nonthreatening way. Companion animals willingly accept love and attention while offering unconditional love in return (Bolin, 1987; Walsh, 2009). Clements, Benasutti, and Carmone (2003) proposed the companion animal has just as strong a need to form an attachment, making the human-animal connection even more resilient.

Companion animals can also be a shield against life’s stressors. “Research suggests that having a companion animal can create feelings of happiness, security, and self-worth, as well as decrease feelings of loneliness and isolation” (King and

Werner, 2011). Chur-hansen (2010) proposed that the bond between a human and an animal is not any more or less important than the bond between a human and a human.

This bond should be thought of differently because the bond takes place between two different species; however, the bond is not any less significant than the human to human bond and is worthy of the same validation and reverence (Chur-hansen, 2010).

Pets are unique in that they serve as both a being to nurture and a nurturer. While petting a companion animal, an individual becomes both the comforter and the comforted (Margolies, 1999).

For children, a bond with a companion animal is particularly important; most children consider his or her pet to be like a sibling. Companion animals can provide a sense of security and comfort to children, especially during times of transition such as moving to a new home, or the divorce of their parents. Children within a single parent household are likely to form a stronger bond with their pets than children whose parents’ marriage remains intact (Walsh, 2009). Companion animals can also be educational tools for children, providing opportunities to learn about responsibility, empathy, nurturance, pregnancy, birth, and death (Walsh, 2009). 4

Companion animals may fulfill any number of needs for a young adult. Often individuals may choose to own a companion animal before having children of their own.

The companion animal helps the individual to learn to take care of another being, make rules, and set boundaries. For couples who live together before having children, this can be a good way to learn each other’s parenting styles (Walsh, 2009).

Couples in mid-life may also benefit from the companionship of an animal. As they launch their grown children into adulthood, companion animals can fill the emotional void left behind. The pet provides someone to nurture who will remain dependent upon the individual’s care, filling the persistent need to nurture even after the grown child has left the household (Walsh, 2009).

Finally, retirees and those nearing the end of their lives benefit from companion animals as well. Sometimes pets are the sole companions for elderly individuals (Luiz-

Adrian, Deliramich, & Frueh 2009). The companion animal may be the only being that offers unconditional love and affection (Morely and Fook 2005). Elderly individuals sometimes choose to remain in their homes, despite the need for assisted living, to avoid rehoming or losing their pet (Chur-hansen, 2010, Morely and Fook 2005).

Review of the Problem

Since companion animals offer such unconditional love and a sense of security to the individual, the loss felt when a beloved pet dies is often great. Researchers have considered the loss of a pet to be as intense as the loss of a spouse or other family member (Quackenbush, 1984). Unfortunately, every pet owner must come to terms with the fact that their pet’s life span is likely shorter than his or her own and at some point, 5 they will have to grieve this loss. Regardless of the companion animal’s age, the death is often felt as pre-mature, as if it were a child (Noonan, 2008).

In order to understand the grief experience of a human losing a pet one must first understand grief. Podrazik, Shackford, Becker, and Heckert (2000) defined grief “…as the emotional response experienced in the early phases of bereavement,” (p. 363). And bereavement “…is a loss due to the death of someone to whom one feels close, and the process of adjustment to that loss,” (Podrazik, Shackford, Becker, and Heckert,

2000). This is an important differentiation to make in determining what a normal process of coping with grief looks like. The ways individuals grieve can be diverse. Bowlby’s attachment theory can provide a significant framework for understanding grief. The essence of Bowlby’s work concludes the closer one is to another individual, the greater the experience of loss will be (Podrazik, Shackford, Becker, and Heckert, 2000).

Bowlby proposed that humans enter four phases of grief after losing someone to death.

Podrazik, Shackford, Becker, and Heckert (2000), outlined Bowlby’s phases when they wrote:

Phase I: Emotional numbing and initial disbelief;

Phase II: A search or yearning for the person deceased (an attempt to

recapture the attachment bond);

Phase III: The experience of disorganization and despair; and

Phase IV: The reorganization of one’s life, establishing new social

relationships, new roles, and new responsibilities as the individual moves

on with life, (p. 369). 6

These stages are not meant to be linear and not every individual will experience each phase. This is merely to provide an outline for both the initial reaction of grief and the experience of bereavement that follows. In general, an individual’s grief is seen as pathological once it becomes “…exaggerated, prolonged, or impairing their occupational or social functioning,” (Podrazik, Shackford, Becker, and Heckert, 2000).

There is no empirical evidence as to whether the grieving process after human loss is similar to the grieving process after pet loss. Nonetheless, anecdotal evidence would suggest any loss, including the loss of a pet, can trigger a grief reaction,

(Podrazik, Shackford, Becker, and Heckert, 2000). When dealing with individuals who have lost companion animals, one should be as sensitive as if they had lost a human family member.

As Sable (1995) stressed there is not much social support for those dealing with the loss of a companion animal. Society typically doesn’t acknowledge the death of a pet, which can further alienate and isolate the grieving individual. Unfortunately, just as with other disenfranchised losses the reaction of friends and family is to help the individual “get over it” as opposed to dealing with the grief (Podrazik, Shackford,

Becker, and Heckert, 2000). For instance, the individual is often told to get a new dog to replace the old one. Interestingly, it would not be appropriate to tell a widower to get a new spouse to replace the old one. Even if social support is offered, just as in human deaths, it is not likely to last through the entire mourning period.

Additionally, the process of euthanasia frequently occurs among companion animals. Playing an active role in the euthanasia process can cause significant distress, fear, guilt, and sadness for the pet owner. The decision to euthanize involves three 7 major elements: psychological, practical, and ethical (Podrazik, Shackford, Becker, and

Heckert, 2000). And even though practically ending the suffering of the animal can come bring about feelings of relief, there continues to be little research regarding the impact of the euthanasia process has on the individual pet owner.

Differentiation between grief and clinical depression are also of importance when working with individuals who have lost a companion animal. In the DSM-V,

Uncomplicated Bereavement, Persistent Complex Bereavement Disorder, and Major

Depressive Disorder all share similar symptomology. However, in differentiating between Major Depressive Disorder and Uncomplicated Bereavement as well as

Persistent Complex Bereavement Disorder it is noted the predominant affect is the inability to anticipate happiness or pleasure as opposed to the feelings of emptiness and loss the DSM-V associates with Bereavement (American Psychiatric Association,

2013).

Additionally, the dysphoria in grief is likely to occur in waves or decrease in intensity over time; this is different from the experience of having a depressed mood which has been persistent over time (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Further differentiation is shown through the individual’s negative thought content which when the client has Major Depression is more focused on negative feelings of him or herself as opposed to memories of the deceased (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

In conclusion, the importance of the grief reaction and bereavement process after the loss of a companion animal has not been substantially explored in research.

The current research exploring the intensity of grief and bereavement following a loss is related to humans and not specific to those experiencing the loss of a companion 8 animal. But because the grief over the loss of a companion animal is so often dismissed or ignored research in this area is important to help individuals validate, process, and move forward through their bereavement.

Research Questions

This study explored the lived experiences of adult men and women who have grieved over the death of their companion animals. What was the experience of grief?

How has this experience affected one’s personal view of being in the world? Interviews were conducted with a pre-determined selection of participants containing both male and female adult pet owners who experienced the death of their companion animal within the last year. Themes that emerged from these interviews were analyzed in an attempt to highlight the universal aspects of this phenomenon. This investigation also aimed at expanding upon the current literature for this population to gain a deeper understanding of the bereavement process. Future and current clinicians and veterinarians will have the opportunity to learn from this research about the effect of grief on the pet owner and how to better help the pet owner prepare and cope with their loss. Additionally, the study explored the importance of assessing for any past losses of companion animals that can add to the grief of additional losses or may be continuing to cause current impairments in functioning for the individual.

Chapter 2: Literature Review

The Grief Reaction

The loss of a pet is often as intense and devastating as the loss of a human family member or friend (Wrobel and Dye, 2003). Wrobel and Dye (2003) maintained that animal companion attachments are extremely important, especially for those that have difficulty forming human attachments. Since the number of animal companions in the United States is growing, so will the number of individuals dealing with grief over the loss of an animal companion. Most animal companions also have shorter life spans than humans suggesting that individuals may deal with the loss of a pet multiple times in their lives, often before the individual is faced with the loss of a human. Wrobel and

Dye (2003) found the grief experience of pet owners typically lasts 6 months to a year with an average of about 10 months. In the past several decades only a small number of researchers have explicitly looked at grief related to the loss of companion animals.

King and Werner (2011), Noonan (1998), and Sable (1995) have endorsed attachment theory as providing an appropriate framework when discussing the grief process of individuals who lose a companion animal. King and Werner (2011) summarized

Bowlby’s definition of attachment theory as “…innate goal-directed behaviors that maintain proximity to an attachment figure, activation of which typically occurs during brief separations from an attachment figure.” In other words, the way individuals shape their human bonds can shape their experience of grief and the way an individual reacts to the loss of a human can parallel the loss of a companion animal.

King and Werner (2011) studied ways in which the experience of attachment relate to the experience of grief. They found that individuals who have an anxious 10 attachment style, meaning they were insecurely attached to their caretaker such as a parent because their caretaker was inconsistently available, were more likely to experience grief, depression, and anxiety over the loss of their companion animal.

Individuals with attachment avoidance, those that avoided close relationships, had a tendency to have more somatic symptoms when dealing with the grief over the loss of a companion animal.

Additionally, Cordaro (2002) and Durkin (2009) proposed Kubler-Ross’s stages of grief model: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance (Kubler-Ross,

1969, as cited in Cordaro, 2002), as a useful theory to conceptualize an individual’s grief over the loss of their companion animal. “While bereaved pet owners may not go through every stage of the grief cycle, feelings of numbness and disbelief are common at the beginning of the grieving process” (Cordaro, 2002). Denial may be delayed until after the final arrangements for the animal’s body have been made because the individual may fantasize that the companion animal is still alive. Durkin (2009) suggested this as the reason that veterinarians offer viewing the body to the individual.

Cowles (1985) recommended working through the individual’s denial over a period of time instead of aggressively trying to confront them. If confronted, the individual’s denial may only become stronger, delaying the use of other coping mechanisms.

Anger is typically another common response amongst grieving pet owners. The individual often directs their anger at themselves; the veterinarian; or if the animal was involved in an accident, the person who caused the death of the animal, for instance, the driver of a car (Cordaro, 2002). 11

Bargaining is often seen as an attempt to regain control after experiencing the loss (Cordaro, 2002). When none of these stages are able to bring the animal back, bereavement sets in. According to Cordaro (2002) the bereavement phase looks like clinical depression. There can be disturbances in sleep, appetite, and mood (intense sadness).

Acceptance is the final stage, and the pet owner will have found closure by finding new ways to distribute their emotional and physical energy (Cordaro, 2002).

In addition to the Kubler Ross model of grief, Cordaro (2002) introduced the dual process model as an additional conceptualization for the experience of grief over the loss of a companion animal. The dual process model is conceptualized as dealing with two separate processes at the same time: the loss orientation and restoration orientation. The loss orientation refers to preoccupying thoughts, feelings of numbness, and disbelief while adjusting to the realization that the companion animal has passed.

The emotional bond with the deceased pet continues to exist despite the lack of the pet’s physical presence. The owner will often “seek out” the pet despite their passing.

The restoration orientation describes the process in which the pet owner tries to adapt to their life without their animal companion. Cordaro (2002) illustrates this point:

For bereaved pet owners, these might be continuing on in major life roles (family life, socializing, chores, going to work) despite the death of the pet; finding new opportunities for companionship and leisure previously shared with the pet; and trying to distract oneself from experiencing grief (p. 286).

Activities that were shared with the pet become losses that are secondary to the loss of their pet, but often add stress to the bereavement process. Typically, grieving 12 pet owners fluctuate between loss orientation and restoration orientation. Problems can arise when an individual feels the need to move on from the grief over their pet immediately and do not give themselves the proper time they need to mourn.

Furthermore, Cordaro (2002) also offered the theory of adaptive grieving styles to describe the nature of grief over the loss of a companion animal. This model states there are three different styles of grieving that fall on a continuum rather than being stages to be sequentially passed through. The first style of grief is intuitive; these grievers will need a way to outwardly express their emotions. These individuals may greatly benefit from grief support groups, therapy, or a good social support system that allows for this outward expression of grief. The second grieving style is instrumental.

These grievers are more likely to experience the loss by reminiscing about old memories or by participating in activities that remind the individual of the pet. This type of griever may often ruminate, but not outwardly voice their emotions regarding the loss of the companion animal. The final grieving style is intuitive-instrumental. These individuals are a mixture of the intuitive griever and the instrumental griever. One style may be more pronounced than the other, but both aspects of grieving will be experienced (Cordaro, 2002).

To see how the grief process affected the lives of individuals, Quackenbush and

Glickman (1984) conducted a retrospective study of 138 pet owners whose pets were seriously ill or deceased. The pet owners were referred to the social services department of the University of Pennsylvania between July 1980 and June 1982. The participants were referred based on having difficulty deciding whether to have their pets euthanized, having an extreme reaction to the death of their pet, or grieving for a 13 prolonged period of time. Out of 138 subjects approximately 80% were female and 20% were male (Quackenbush and Glickman, 1984). The age range of participants investigated was 12 years to 65 years with the average age being 44.5 years

(Quackenbush and Glickman, 1984). Also according to Quackenbush and Glickman

(1984):

Thirty-three percent of the subjects had lived by themselves with their pets; 38% lived with one other adult. Fifteen percent lived in households containing three persons,

6% in households containing four persons, and 8% in households containing five or more persons. Twenty-five percent of the subjects were single; 27% were widowed and had experienced the death of their spouse in the three years prior to the study; and 4% were recently divorced. Forty-four percent of the subjects were married, (p. 43).

After studying all applicable records, Quackenbush and Glickman (1984) found 93% of participants experienced some difficulty in their daily routines such as eating more or less than usual and difficulty sleeping sometimes due to nightmares. Seventy percent of participants had diminished social lives caused by their attempts to isolate themselves

(Quackenbush and Glickman, 1984). Forty-five percent of participants missed up to three days of work and were angered by a lack of sensitivity by their colleagues

(Quackenbush and Glickman, 1984). In fact, when family and friends of the pet owner did not acknowledge the grief felt over the pet’s death as legitimate the owners began to question their own mental stability. Three percent of participants were referred to longer term and more in-depth mental health services (Quackenbush and Glickman,

1984). Two weeks after the death of their pet, these owners remained incapable of returning to work, continued to isolate, and showed signs of worsening depression 14

(Quackenbush and Glickman, 1984). Additionally, more than 90 percent of participants opted to have their pets euthanized (Quackenbush and Glickman, 1984). The participants who chose not to euthanize their pets reported feeling guilty for allowing their pet to die more slowly and sometimes more painfully (Quackenbush and Glickman,

1984). The study conducted by Quackenbush and Glickman (1984) was a descriptive account of the bereavement experience. The intention was not to produce or test a hypothesis but rather to present information that can be helpful in identifying the process of grief.

Exploring more deeply the nature of pet owners’ grief, Field, Orsini, Gavish, and

Packman (2009), advised the emotional loss the pet owner experiences is directly related to the bond created between the pet and the owner. The researchers selected possible participants for this study by using a flyer sent to pet loss survivor groups, pet loss support counselors, and other pet loss associated establishments such as The

Humane Society (Field, Orsini, Gavish, & Packman, 2009). Once a list of pet loss survivors was created, 496 letters were mailed out and 71 people agreed to participate in the study. A survey was completed including demographic data and information regarding aspects of the loss such as the nature of the pet’s death, time since the death, length of ownership, etc. Also included was the Pet Attachment Survey, or PAS, an 11-item measure “…assessing strength of attachment in the past relationship with a deceased pet…” (Field, Orsini, Gavish, & Packman, 2009). The items are rated on a

5point scale, 1 representing almost never and 5 representing almost always.

Respondents also completed a self-reported measure of adult attachment in the form of a 30-item relationship scales questionnaire. A 9-item shortened version of the Inventory 15 of Complicated Grief was also included. The researchers stated this shortened version is as reliable as the full version given the shortened versions use in previous studies regarding human loss (Field, Orsini, Gavish, & Packman, 2009). The survey asks about emotional, cognitive, and behavioral issues and how often each has been experienced over the past month on a 5-point scale; 1 representing never and 5 representing always

(Field, Orsini, Gavish, & Packman, 2009). The Multi-Dimensional Scale of Perceived

Social Support was included to measure the amount of support the participant had available to them. And finally, a 4-item measure of continuing bonds with the deceased was included to judge the extent to which the bond had continued. The significant results of this study concluded, “…strength of past attachment to the pet and attachment style are distinct predictors of grief severity” (Field, Orsini, Gavish, &

Packman, 2009). The effects of attachment, especially those with anxious or avoidant attachment styles, were predictors of a more complicated grief experience, but were not mediated by social support or a continuing bond to the pet (Field, Orsini, Gavish, &

Packman, 2009). Additionally, the non-significant results suggested that disengaging the attachment bond did not improve adjustment to the bereavement period (Field,

Orsini, Gavish, & Packman, 2009). This study had many limitations, such as a low response rate and a low total number of participants.

Additionally, Jarolman (1998) felt the bond between owner and companion animal is important in determining intensity of grief. Therefore, the researcher conducted a study focusing on how pet owner’s level of attachment affected the duration of their grief. She mailed a survey packet including a grief experience inventory and questions for each participant. Packets were returned by 433 individuals and 16 divided into three categories: ages 6-10, 13-17, and adults age 20 and over. Jarolman discovered adolescents and children experienced more intense grief for a longer duration after the loss of a pet than adults. The author suggests this is likely because attaching to pets is similar to attaching to children for adults. And for children, attaching to pets is a step between attaching to parents and forming relationships to others.

Building on this theme Hunt and Padilla (2006) reported the bond between an animal and a human can be greater than the bond between a human and a human.

Their argument is that humans do not always respond with unconditional love as companion animals do. The researchers discovered that because the bond can be greater, so can the grief. Hunt and Padilla’s study was aimed at creating a reliable pet bereavement questionnaire to more accurately measure an individual’s grief in relation to their companion animal’s death. The original item pool for the questionnaire was developed through an extensive literature review on pet bereavement, attachment, and the reaction to loss in general (Hunt and Padilla, 2006). The items were written to reflect four themes of bereavement: grief, anger, guilt, and trauma (Hunt and Padilla, 2006). A

4-point scale was then used to rate each item. To ensure the validity of their questionnaire additional surveys were included in the packet distributed to participants.

These surveys consisted of basic demographic information, the Beck Depression

Inventory II, and the Pet Attachment Questionnaire (Hunt and Padilla, 2006). The final questionnaire consisted of 16 items they believed precisely defined the pet loss bereavement process. The questionnaire was then posted online to numerous pet related websites. Their sample of 142 participants mainly consisted of Caucasian women with ages ranging from 18 to 63 years of age. The researchers found that their 17 questionnaire had good internal consistency as well as construct validity. Their questionnaire was able to differentiate between pet bereavement and depression. The participants that were recruited through pet bereavement websites scored high on both pet bereavement and depression scales. This means that while their bereavement is a significant problem there may also be indications of clinical depression. The researchers concluded that individuals with depression might have a stronger attachment to their pets than those who don’t have depression. The researchers’ also hypothesized individuals who are married would have a less significant grief reaction than those who are not married; this proved to be false. The results indicated the grief reaction was just as significant if not greater for married individuals as unmarried individuals. Additionally, age was negatively correlated with guilt. Hunt and Padilla

(2006) recommended this is due to older individuals having a greater understanding that the loss is inevitable. Furthermore, the researchers conclude older individuals may have more time and finances to care take the pet resulting in less guilt. It is important to note that due to the small sample size the results may not be generalizable.

Similar to the study conducted by Quackenbush and Glickman (1984) that focused on how grief after the loss of a pet interrupted the individual’s life, Archer and

Winchester (1994) conducted a research study of 88 participants who had lost their companion animal within the last year. The researchers had the participants fill out a

Pet Loss Questionnaire they had created from research describing general reactions of loss the researchers felt make up the grief process. A 3-point scale was used for the participant to decide if the item 1-definitely, 2- slightly, or 3, did not apply (Archer and 18

Winchester, 1994). These surveys were distributed to various business in the Kirkham

Lancashire area of England. The researchers found that one quarter to half of their participants experienced numbness, preoccupation, anger, and irritability concerning the loss of their pet.

Gosse and Barnes (1994) found three factors affected the outcome of the grief experience. The researchers sent out questionnaires to participants in Long Island,

New York, who had lost either a dog or a cat within one year. Seventy-nine percent of

207 participants were women and the average age was 41. They discovered the owner’s level of attachment, the level of perceived support from others, and an accumulation of other stressful events during the same year all affected intensity of the grief experience (Gosse & Barnes, 1994). Individuals who lived alone or with one other adult had a more intensive grief reaction than those living with children or multiple adults. These results are similar to those Jarolman (1998) found, although it’s important to note these factors affect adults and children differently. The researchers also found females had a more intense grief reaction than males. Age was not correlated to the grief response.

Both the intensity and duration of grief symptoms were assessed through a survey conducted in 2002 by Planchon, Templer, Stokes, and Keller. Participants consisted of 63 companion animal owners recruited from local veterinarian hospitals and 391 students from San Jose State University. The study found that depression, death depression (specifically how the pet died: euthanasia, accident, or illness) and attitude (how long the individual had the pet, whether there are other pets in the house, and level attachment to the deceased pet) towards the companion animal were 19 correlated with the highest measures of grief. This study shows that an individual’s capacity to feel grief over the loss of a human is similar to the capacity for that individual to feel grief over the loss a of companion animal.

Gerwolls and Labbott (1994) found similar results to Planchon, Templer, Stokes, and Keller (2002). The researchers distributed a questionnaire to 49 adults who had lost a pet within three weeks prior to their participation in the study. Of these participants 39 were female and 10 were male, 59% owned a dog, 24% owned a cat, and the remainder owned other animals such as horses or rodents. Each participant owned his or her pet for an average of 6.9 years. Concurring with Planchon, Templar, Stokes, and

Keller’s (2002) results, the researchers discovered the grief experience of the loss of a companion animal is closely related to the experience of the loss of a human relationship. Those with a more intense grief reaction reported a higher attachment to their pet. Unique to this study the researchers asked participants if they knew their pet was going to die beforehand. The researchers found no difference in grief whether or not the pet owner knew beforehand that the pet was going to die. Gerwolls and Labbott

(1994) proposed this was because the process of a pet dying is often much quicker and more unexpected than for humans.

Cusack (1988, as cited in Sharkin and Know, 2003) put forward that pets can be a measure of the familial atmosphere. Pets understand “patterns of interaction and emotional undercurrents such as anxiety, conflict and tension” (Cusack 1988, as cited in Sharkin and Know, 2003). Pets can become a diversion for familial conflict and tension or sometimes can be a target for misdirected anger. In addition, the pet can serve as a coping tool during periods of illness, the death of a family member, or family 20 crises such as separation or divorce (Sharking and Know, 2003). The pet can take on any or all of the above roles during any period or stage of the family’s life cycle. Given all the functions the pet serves, it is natural the death of the pet will affect the routine and behavioral patterns of the family members. The experience of grief may differ within the family, which can result in added tension (Sharkin and Know, 2003).

All of these studies show the loss of a pet can be very distressing. Therefore,

Gage and Holcomb (1999) advise applying to grief research the tenets of family stress theory which defines normative family events and life transitions as stressors. The loss of a family pet is considered to be one of these stressful events. Gage and Holcomb sent out 1,650 questionnaires to measure the significance of the loss of the family pet.

The surveys were sent out to intact families with a child and a wife between the ages of

35-54 Gage and Holcomb, 1999). The sample families were identified through a direct mailing firm. Out of the 1,650 questionnaires, only 212 were returned, resulting in a small sample size and sample bias. Ninety-eight percent of respondents were

Caucasian and 70% were Protestant. The average family size consisted of 4.8 members. Among the participants that did return the survey, loss of the family pet was the most frequently reported family stressor. The researchers found the loss of the family pet was just as traumatic as losing a close relationship and for most women, just as distressing as losing touch with a child. The responses of this survey suggest the importance of the family pet within the family system. Additionally, these findings indicate the loss of the family pet disrupts the entire family system, adding significant stress to the family as a whole. 21

In sum numerous studies demonstrate there is no one size fits all when it comes to grief. This is both a complex and delicate process. Understanding the different ways in which individuals grieve is the first step in helping individuals move forward. The grief experience is nuanced, and adding to this uniqueness are the ways in which different developmental stages react to grief, especially at the beginning and end of life.

Children

The loss of a companion animal for children can be just as intense, if not more intense, than the loss of a human. As briefly mentioned in the introduction, children tend to be more attached to their companion animals than adults, viewing them as if they were siblings (Walsh, 2009). Consequently, for children there is little difference in the grieving process between the loss of a companion animal and the loss of a human

(Levinson, 1967). Children learning to cope with the loss of their pet can have feelings of “anxiety, fear, distrust of the world, and physical discomfort” (Levinson, 1967). When an animal companion dies, there are no therapeutic interventions that can minimize the grief and often children have had no previous preparation for this loss (Levinson, 1967).

Children may develop problems sleeping, as they believe “being put to sleep” has something to do with their own sleep (Levinson, 1967). Also, the child can view death as a punishment and might begin to wonder if they themselves will die as a form of punishment (Levinson, 1967). The child may also feel guilty and not want to share their feelings, as they may be considered shameful (Levinson, 1967).

Stephens and Hill (1996) asked 73 current or former pet owners to write a lengthy essay regarding their relationship with a companion animal. No other demographic information was provided. The results suggest that young children often 22 believe that they can control their environment and those around them. Consequently, when something goes wrong in a child’s life they feel guilt and anger. Therefore, children tend to feel anger and hatred towards those that have “killed” their companion animal, such as the vet or parents who authorize the euthanasia of their pet. Parents often react inadequately or inappropriately because they do not want their children to be in pain. Children often do not get told right away that their pet has died, or they are told misleading information, such as a story about how their pet has gone to live somewhere else or has gone away to a farm. Being upfront and honest regarding the loss of the companion animal is typically the best route for parents to help their children cope with bereavement (Durkin, 2009). And sometimes children are yelled at, or punished for crying. When a pet dies, children are taught the Western culture’s discomfort with death and often feel denial or repress their grief (Durkin, 2009).

The loss of a companion animal is usually the first time a child has to cope with death and is often a primary stressor for childhood and adolescents (Brown, 1996). A survey conducted in 1996 by Brown, found the more intense the attachment is to the pet, the more intense the grief is after the loss of the pet. Brown also found girls bonded with pets more strongly than did boys, suggesting the grief response for girls would be more intense. Brown’s sample was small, with only 55 adolescent participants and lacking in diversity, since all but four participants were Caucasian. However, both sexes were well-represented, with 27 males, and 28 females. All participants were prescreened with the Adolescent Life Change Event Scale (ALCES), a self-reported measure of stress. Brown’s results add to the evidence that the more strongly an individual attaches to a pet, the more intense their grief response is likely to be. 23

Margolies (1999) indicated the period of grieving for children is much longer than adults because children are not equipped to deal with their grief. The child’s grief response over the loss of a pet is greatly impacted by the behavior of their parents or those around them. The age and developmental stage of the child impact their experience of the bereavement (Margolies, 1999). Younger children may not fully understand death; not recognizing, for example, that it is forever (Margolies, 1999). “Older children and adolescents for example, cry less freely than younger children. They fear being overwhelmed by the emotional expression and worry about their appearance to their peers,” (Margolies, 1999). Parents should provide a safe environment and an opportunity for the child to express their feelings (Margolies, 1999).

Since most parents often do not want to see their child experiencing grief, bereavement, and pain, they have a tendency to try to shield children from the loss of a companion animal. Sife (2005) recommended that parents avoid making up stories about the companion animal’s whereabouts, such as that the pet went to live at a farm.

This type of storytelling often creates more confusion for the child and can create a distrustful relationship between the parent and the child if the child later discovers the truth about their pet. Corr (2003-2004) suggests parents have a tendency to replace the deceased companion animal with a new one too rapidly and the children do not get the opportunity they need to grieve. This can affect the child’s bond with the new companion animal, because the child has not fully accepted the loss of the previous companion animal. Corr stated the child needs time to learn other adaptive and coping skills as well, such as participating in activities without their pet. Corr (2003-2004) also writes that activities commemorating the loss of the companion animal can be helpful in 24 allowing the child to grieve. These can include burial rituals that mimic the rituals of adults after a human passes or more informal activities such as sharing memories and making scrapbooks.

In conclusion, the implications of the loss of a beloved pet can be of more concern for children. The intensity of the grief can be stronger and additionally, the time spent grieving can be longer, despite the fact that children may not be verbal about the grief they are experiencing. For parents being upfront and honest as well as giving children time to mourn and accept the loss are important factors for helping their children deal with the grief after such a loss.

Later-Life Individuals

When an older individual, such as a retiree or someone nearing the end of their life loses a companion animal, their routine can become confusing and disorienting

(Cowles, 1985). Pets provide stability by establishing structure to a person’s day. Pets need to be fed, walked, and cared for. An older individual caring for a pet is also provided with more social activity than those without a pet. Quackenbush (1984 as cited in Cowles, 1985) states

Ninety-seven percent of older pet owners suffering from bereavement reported experiencing some disruption in their routines; most often eating and sleeping schedules became erratic. Socialization diminished for 82% of older bereaved pet owners. Also, 100% of older bereaved pet owners experienced job difficulties due to the disorientation of not having the pet around, (p. 137).

In addition, Rajaram, Garrity, Stallones, & Marx, (1993) advised elderly individuals coping with the loss of a pet may suffer from excessive crying and an 25 inability to concentrate. These researchers also propose that in Western culture a shift in the family structure has occurred, causing the extended family to shrink until the focus is now just on the nuclear family. For older individuals, this lack of social support emphasizes the role of the pet as a member of the family. Rajaram, Garrity, Stallones,

& Marx, (1993) conducted a phone survey of an unspecified number of individuals in the “elderly” population of the United States. The participants were found through a random dialing phone system. “Overall, the sample was representative of the noninstitutionalized U.S. elderly population in terms of gender, race, and marital status.

The sample was somewhat younger and better educated than the total U.S. elderly population,” they reported. The study focused on depression among those who have experienced the death of a pet. The Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression

Scale (CES-D) was utilized to measure emotional distress. The researchers chose this instrument because based on their research this method of measuring depressive symptoms has been shown to be both valid and reliable. A pet attachment scale designed for this study was used to measure the level of attachment between owners and their pets. This scale was made up of 6 questions and showed little variation in the responses of participants.

Almost all participants reported high attachment levels with their pet. Rajaram,

Garrity, Stallones, & Marx, (1993) found the death of a pet was not associated with depressive symptoms to the same extent as deaths of significant persons, particularly spouses or relatives. This was a cross sectional study; therefore, the influence exerted by other variables contributing to depressive symptoms could not be established.

Stewart, Thrush, Paulus, & Hafner (1985) studied some of the social and psychological 26 effects of pet ownership among the elderly. The researchers conducted a survey of 245 individuals in Florida and Michigan. The entire sample was over the age of 55 with the majority falling in the range of 60-69. Forty-one percent were 70 years of age or older,

55% were between 60 and 69 years of age, and 4% were between 55 and 59 years of age. Additionally, 92% maintained their own residence. The researchers discovered pet owners were significantly more likely to have contact with friends than non-pet owners.

Ironically, the fewer friends the individual had, the more likely they were to own a pet.

Despite having fewer friends, pet owners were in contact with their friends on a more regular basis than non-pet owners (Stewart, Thrush, Paulus, & Hafner, 1985). However, the pet owners were significantly more likely to report less participation in activities

(Stewart, Thrush, Paulus, & Hafner, 1985). Animal companionship was not seen as a replacement for human companionship, however, 88.6% of pet owners reported the reason for owning a pet was companionship (Stewart, Thrush, Paulus, & Hafner, 1985).

Just like the loss of a child the loss of a companion animal pet affects both the individual but also the activities the individual participates in on a daily basis with their pet; both of these losses must be grieved.

In summary, when an older individual loses a companion animal not only are they affected by the grief but also the possibility of the loss of daily activities involving the more social aspects of their lives. The may be more so affected if the pet provided the daily routine and structure for the individual. The individual may further isolate without social support and a daily routine which can further complicate the grieving process. 27

Euthanasia

When an individual has a companion animal, it is likely decisions regarding euthanasia will arise. In 2012, Morris analyzed crisis emotion management techniques used by veterinarians and their staff. Until the 20th century a veterinarian’s primary job was to treat farm and transportation animals. During this period, the owner took responsibility for the animal’s euthanasia. But over time this changed and individuals began to seek a veterinarian for help in taking care of their pets and facilitating their euthanasia. The early belief was that an animal’s death was too gruesome and emotionally charged for a client to watch so euthanasia was practiced in the back of the veterinarian clinic, away from the public. But again over time this practice has also changed and veterinarians often encourage their client to stay with their companion animal during the process.

The practice of euthanasia can vary greatly for each veterinary clinic. Fogle and

Abrahamson (1990) sent out 300 questionnaires to 150 small vet clinics and 150 training clinics in Great Britain asking why veterinarians decide to perform euthanasia for pet owners. Of these 300 questionnaires, 167 were returned; 82 from the small vet clinics and 85 from the training clinics. The majority (75%) of respondents stated they would euthanize healthy pets at the owners request for reasons that included behavior issues.

Most (88%) stated they would euthanize a severely sick or injured pet without the owner’s permission. Fully 91% (with the owner’s permission) would euthanize a severely injured animal that could be saved, and 44% of respondents stated they have regretted performing euthanasia at least once (Fogle and Abrahamson, 1990). 28

Veterinarians have a unique role in that they are expected to provide an accurate prognosis of how long the animal will live and a prediction about the quality of life the animal will have during that time. Almost no other branch of medicine has this expectation and yet the decision to euthanize is almost always predicated on this explanation. Interestingly, the questionnaire asked if any of the respondents received formal training in how to interact with clients during the euthanasia process and 96% said they did not (Fogle & Abraham, 1990).

Morris (2012) believes veterinarians classify their euthanasia clients into two categories: individuals feeling grief and individuals feeling guilt. He says veterinarians often believe an individual’s guilt can impede or delay their decision-making ability.

Therefore, the veterinarian will try to do what’s best for the animal and persuade the owner to make more rational and timely decisions. During the decision-making process regarding euthanasia, the veterinarian will maintain tight control over the situation in hopes of containing the owner’s emotions. For individuals who feel guilt, the veterinarian will support the euthanasia decision as the right decision, especially if the decision is based on finances or if the owner feels they contributed to the pet’s death in any way. After the decision to euthanize has been made the veterinarian will relax his or her hold on the situation and allow the owner to feel their grief more fully, because their emotions no longer impact the decision (Morris, 2012).

Euthanasia is often a difficult and emotionally charged decision for the pet owner.

For many individuals their pet is more than just a pet, but rather a part of their family, so making the decision to euthanize is incredibly distressing to the individual. When struggling with a euthanasia decision, the owner must make a judgment call as to 29 whether or not the quality of the companion animal’s life is worth living. Davis, Irwin,

Richardson, and O’Brien-Malone (2003) discovered that religion did not play as big a factor in the decision as they initially hypothesized. None of the 68 participants in their study felt euthanasia was a religious conflict and all acknowledged that ending the pet’s suffering took precedence over their religious beliefs. Pet owners also appreciated veterinarians and their staff who clearly communicated the facts and included the owner in the decision making process, gave them time to think about their decisions, and treated them with respect. Even so, this study also found the strongest predictor of intense grief to be the use of euthanasia. However, McCutcheon and Fleming (2002) also studied how the euthanasia and its impact on grief, finding contradictory results.

McCutcheon and Fleming (2002) surveyed 103 pet owners whose companion animals died of euthanasia or of natural causes. The researchers found those whose pets died naturally experienced greater feelings of loss of control and had a tendency to be more socially isolated than those who euthanized their pets. The owners who euthanized their pets were also found to have a greater sense of attachment before they euthanized their pet than those who did not. The researchers suggest that pet owners who go through the euthanasia process have more social support and better veterinary care than owners whose pets die naturally at home. The pet owners who euthanized also had a greater sense of control over the quality and comfort of their companion animal’s life than those who companion animal died naturally.

In the 1984 study of Quackenbush and Glickman, most owners did not feel qualified to determine whether or not euthanasia was the right decision for their pet.

Often times the owner was not taking into account the quality of life their pet was likely 30 to experience during the final stages of their illness. Eventually, more than 90% of survey respondents chose to have their pet euthanized and those that didn’t felt a tremendous amount of guilt after seeing their pet die slowly and sometimes painfully

(Quackenbush & Glickman 1984).

The role of a veterinarian is unique in dealing with the decision-making process preceding euthanasia. Two viewpoints characterize euthanasia: something an individual gives to a pet or something an individual does to a pet (Dickenson, Roof, & Roof, 2011).

Unfortunately, many veterinarians and their staff are inadequately trained to deal with their client’s emotions during the loss of their companion animal (Dickenson, Roof, &

Roof, 2011). In a study conducted in 2011 by Dickenson, Roof, and Roof, 349 Southern

Carolina veterinarians were asked about the amount of training they received in dealing with client’s emotions during the euthanasia process. The study found on average about 7 animals per month were put to sleep in each clinic, and most clients preferred to stay inside the room at the time of euthanasia. Most of the participating veterinarians stated they received no formal training in how to help a client deal with their grief. The veterinarians were either self-taught or trained on the job regarding counseling euthanasia clients. The majority of participants agreed veterinary schools should place more emphasis on dealing with the owners who are experiencing grief over the loss of their companion animal.

In 2010, Pilgram conducted interviews with 10 veterinarians to see how they offer support to their clients during the euthanasia process. All the veterinarians viewed themselves as offering emotional, informational, and instrumental support. Researchers found some veterinarians can appear “icy” when experiencing transference of their own 31 grief. And most veterinarians varied in the amount of support they offered based on the situation and the client. All the veterinarians stated they learned to communicate this support from school, on the job training, and experience. The veterinarians also agreed there is a need for more extensive training in school and for staff at veterinarian clinics in this area.

The decision to euthanize is complicated due to the amount of guilt, anxiety, and stress the pet owner feels in making this choice, and yet the potential for ameliorating a sense of helplessness in the face of an animal’s suffering. Therefore, this literature is an important addition to this research because the euthanasia process can have unique psychological consequences impacting the experience of grief.

Factors for More Intense Grief

Lagoni (1994) identified several risk factors that can intensify the grief reaction: the belief the pet owner rescued the companion animal from a near death situation; gratitude towards their companion animal for getting them through a difficult time in their life; life stage (growing up with the companion animal); and reliance on their companion animal for support. Additional, factors that contribute to intensified grief include the investment of extensive time, and/or financial resources toward a companion animal’s health care and/or feeling connected to someone else in their life through the companion animal.

Clements, Benasutti, and Carmone (2003) proposed that grief experienced over the loss of a companion animal is not socially sanctioned, often referred to as disenfranchised grief. The grief can be significant and authentic for the person going 32 through the loss; however, the grief is not recognized as justified grief by friends, coworkers, or society. This can leave the griever lacking strong social support. Toray

(2004) put forward:

There are three ways in which disenfranchised grief is experienced: (a) the

relationship with the deceased is not recognized, (b) the loss is not recognized,

or (c) the griever is not recognized. In terms of pet loss, some or all of these

criteria are often met, thereby effectively removing or minimizing means of

support for the griever. (p. 250).

Morris (2012) maintained that sympathy is important for individuals, but sympathy is also a nuanced resource. Specifically, sympathy is limited by what individuals think they know or how they determine an individual’s social value. For instance, humans are perceived to be at the highest level of social value, followed by animals. The more highly society views an animal, the less society tolerates the animal’s mistreatment and the more individuals are allowed to grieve their loss. A mouse or ferret is often less grieved than a cat or a dog. Goldfish are often flushed down the toilet without a second thought. Therefore society rationalizes the grief over a companion animal by suggesting that animals are property and easily replaceable.

Anticipatory grief is often just as intense an emotional process as the grief that occurs after experiencing a death. Anticipatory grief is the emotional process an individual experiences while caring for a sick human or animal companion long term

(Bolin 1987; Chur-hansen 2010). If the companion animal has been sick for a long time, the individual anticipates the pet’s death, causing anticipatory grief. This process begins once the pet is diagnosed with a terminal illness. As Toray (2004) stated: 33

At that time, pet owners may begin to experience a shift in the relationship

they have with their companion animal, because sick pets are no longer

able to play previous roles once enjoyed by family members. A once

healthy pet that now requires a great deal of care can create a different

dynamic and interactional pattern in the family. (p. 251)

Chur-hansen (2010) additionally highlighted the decision to euthanize as causing intense guilt and fear, further compounding and complicating the experience of anticipatory grief.

Furthermore, Bolin (1987) concluded that anticipatory grief could be further exacerbated by other losses. The researcher explained that after the loss of a spouse, a widow may feel a great loss of control and security. Therefore, the widow can begin to experience anticipatory grief over the anticipated loss of their pet, even if the pet is not sick.

Coping with the grief over the loss of a companion animal can be frustrating and exhausting, and if the individual has not developed functional coping skills, complicated grief can occur. Complicated grief is a maladaptive coping mechanism that can occur after a potentially traumatic loss of a loved one (Luiz-Adrian, Deliramich, & Freuh,

2009). Complicated grief symptoms can last more than six months and often cause more significant impairment in functioning (Luiz-Adrian, Deliramich, & Freuh, 2009).

Complicated grief includes two responses: the inability to let go of the deceased and denial and avoidance of the loss and pain (Toray, 2004).

In 2009, a study was conducted by Luiz-Adrian, Deliramich, and Freuh to see whether complicated grief could result in a Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) 34 diagnosis. The researchers surveyed 106 clients of a local veterinarian in Hawaii. Only six of the participants scored within the complicated grief range and none of these participants would have qualified for a diagnosis of PTSD. However, most of these participants were recalling past experiences of pet-related grief, which may have resulted in over- or under- reporting their grief reactions.

For a farmer who euthanizes livestock for a living, the grief experience is often complicated. Even when the animal does not belong to them, individual farmers can experience severe guilt, grief, shame, and distress. Unfortunately, farmers may need to euthanize animals frequently, which compounds these feelings, often leading to a diagnosis of PTSD (Chur-Hansen, 2010).

Service animals provide a unique role for individuals; the service animal provides companionship, along with a service. Service animals give individuals with disabilities security, mobility, and freedom. Once the service animal dies, the individual is not just losing their companion, but also their independence (Chur-hansen, 2010). It is unknown whether this population suffers from PTSD after the loss of a service animal because no studies were found that researched this phenomenon.

The bereavement process over the loss of a companion animal does not just occur once the animal is deceased. This process can occur if the companion animal goes missing and is considered lost. The unexpected disappearance of the companion animal may be even more traumatic for the individual than the death of a companion animal. Furthermore, the individual may blame themselves for the disappearance which can prompt tremendous guilt. This guilt can intensify the grieving process (Clements,

Benasutti, & Carmone 2003) 35

For the elderly, grief can occur for those individuals who are rehomed in assisted living facilities without their pet, even if the pet has not died. The loss of both independence and their pet can ignite the grief process in a manner similar to the loss suffered by individuals with disabilities whose service animals have died or can no longer work. The grief can also intensify if the pet’s fate and wellbeing is uncertain.

Others often minimize and devalue this grief (Morley and Fook, 2005).

The knowledge and understanding of how an individual’s grief develops and is then misunderstood or undervalued by others can be a great psychological asset when helping the individual cope with their grief. In addition, differentiating among these different types of grief is an important aspect to gaining a greater understanding of the grief experience. This study has added to this literature by addressing specific types of grief in interviews and by integrating both the similarities and differences into themes found amongst the grief experiences.

Coping With the Loss

Wrobel and Dye (2003) wrote regarding pet deaths that there are no “socially sanctioned mourning procedures, such as funerals…” despite research showing that rituals are critical to the healing process. This lack of an outlet for grief can impair the healing process and make the pet owner feel isolated. “Rituals allow for individual expressions of grief and create a means of keeping a link to the deceased pet” (Toray

2004). The grief over the loss of a pet may be further disenfranchised because pets are often considered replaceable.

According to Lee and Surething (2013), losing a companion animal that has been an essential source of emotional well-being can have negative effects on an individual’s 36 sense of security. The researchers demonstrated a belief in religion can impact the amount of grief an individual experiences. They describe religious coping in two ways: the first is positive religious coping in which individuals feel as if God is comforting. The second is negative religious coping in which individuals feel as if God is punishing. The researchers conducted an interview of 510 adults, the majority of whose pets had died in the month prior to the study. They found those who experience positive or negative religious coping might have higher levels of bereavement than those with no religious beliefs. Religion, whether used positively or negatively, is used to understand and deal with life’s most stressful events. Therefore, the researchers suggest that in times of difficulty and stress individuals utilize a variety of resources to cope including their ability to make sense of the situation.

Often the grief response to the loss of a pet is compared to the loss of a human and although Davis, Irwin, Richardson, and O’Brien-Malone (2003) agree with this, the researchers found that the magnitude of the grief response is less intense. The researchers also concluded that individuals who choose to euthanize their pets get more social support than those who do not. And although the veterinary staff can offer support to the individual, they do not have formal training in how to deal with grief.

Therefore, Davis, Irwin, Richardson, and O’Brien-Malone (2003) implied that using religion as a way of coping with a pet’s death gives the pet’s life meaning. After conducting a study of 68 participants recruited from posters placed at various religiously affiliated institutions, the researchers reported that more deeply religious individuals were more likely to believe in an afterlife for the pet. This belief in an afterlife offers some solace to those who have lost their pet by allowing the individual to still feel 37 connected to the pet. Researchers reported participants found a way to cope with their grief by practicing some sort of memorial ceremony such as a burial or cremation.

Additionally, some owners reported getting a rock or a plant in memory of their pet, which also helped the individuals feel as if their pet was still nearby. This study was limited by the small sample size. Most of the participants lived in Australia and were of the Catholic/Christian belief system therefore, the results aren’t generalizable to other religious groups. Also, some of the participants had lost their companion animal more than a decade before answering the questionnaire, which brings up the question of how accurate the individual’s memories were of their grief experience.

In 2006, Brown argued a minister, priest, pastor, or other religious figure could be helpful to individuals dealing with grief and bereavement over the loss of their companion animal. Based on the findings from Brown’s earlier study in 1996, he stressed that the type of relationship the individual had with their companion animal should be taken into account so the religious figure can better understand the type of loss the individual is coping with. Also, because pet bereavement is often stigmatized, the religious figure can be in a better position to help the individual work through their grief. The religious figure can do this by providing social support and by facilitating the memorialization of the pets remains either through burial or a ceremony.

Chur-Hansen, Black, Gierasch, Pletneva, and Winefield, (2011) also underscored the importance of burial rituals not only for humans but also for companion animals. Without grieving rituals such as cremation or burial, the researchers believe the significance of the companion animal remains unacknowledged. And the lack of a ceremony does not allow the individual the proper expression of their grief, which may 38 intensify the feelings of grief for some individuals. The study recruited men and women from small businesses in Australia. A survey was conducted to see what type of person was interested in cremation services for their companion animal and why. The researchers discovered that no one particular type of person sought out cremation services. Men, women, and children all sought out these crematory services but all of these individuals considered their companion animal to play a major role in their family.

The most common animals to be cremated were dogs and cats. Additionally, there were some horses, birds, and fish. The decision to cremate was almost always made pragmatically. Sometimes the animal was too big to bury. If the animal was involved in a gruesome accident the owner may not have wanted to touch the animal themselves.

Also, by cremating, the owner was able to keep their pet’s remains close by.

Additionally, some owners wanted to be buried with their pet and because laws prohibit burying animals and humans together cremation allows for this option. All participants agreed a cremation ceremony allowed the owner a way to express their grief and cultivated a feeling of closure that would not have otherwise been obtained (Chur-

Hansen et al., 2011).

The first evidence of a pet cemetery was found in Tokyo, Japan, dating roughly to about 1766 (Kenney, 2004). Scientists discovered five tombstones for cats or dogs

(Kenney, 2004). Much like pet owners in the United States, Japanese pet owners will bury their pets, usually in their own yard. However, the Japanese, unlike Americans, will construct memorials consisting of food, candles, incense, pictures, and toys for their pet

(Kenney, 2004). Other Japanese individuals may launch the casket containing the animal’s remains into a body of water such as a river or an ocean. Japanese pet 39 owners also cremate their pets, giving them the ability to maintain daily contact with the animal or later add their pet’s ashes to their own. Three times a year, a memorial service is held at various pet cemeteries throughout the country to commemorate their ancestors, including their pets (Kenney, 2004).

Companion animal grief is a complicated process of healing. In addition to memorial ceremonies, Furman (2005) and Kaufman and Kaufman (2006) reported that narrative reflections and poetry are helpful tools in memorializing the individual’s companion animal and working through the emotional process of bereavement. “Loss is a highly personal, complex phenomenon. In order to study its intricacies, a medium is needed that captures the subtleties of affect and its cultural expression” (Furman,

2005). Kaufman and Kaufman (2006) wrote a case study of a young boy, age 7, who lost his dog after suffering multiple other losses over the span of a year and a half. The dog, Twick, brought up the grief from the previous losses and the additional depression and anxiety that had been caused by complicated grief. Twick died unexpectedly at the veterinarian’s office, therefore, the boy was unable to say goodbye. The boy’s parents had him write a poem about the dog, which they framed and hung in a location the child chose. Writing this poem and putting it on display helped the boy both express his love and sadness over the loss of his companion animal.

Maintaining the bond with a deceased pet may be a helpful tool in coping with the grief of a companion animal. Even though there is a physical separation because the companion animal is now deceased, an ongoing emotional attachment can occur.

This ongoing attachment with the companion animal can help to resolve grief because the relationship is not coming to an end, just being reorganized (Packman, Carmack, & 40

Ronen 2012). In 2012, the researchers conducted a survey of 33 participants who all lost a pet within the previous 12 months. Seventy-six percent of participants reported they continued to talk with their pets after the death and, 52% reported keeping items, such as collars or toys, from their pet as special memories. Sixty-one percent of participants created a special ritual for remembering their pet. And 64% believed they would once again be reunited with their pet in the afterlife. Even though most owners reported the continuing bonds were a helpful coping tool, most individuals didn’t share these bonds with others because they feel they will be judged or ridiculed by those around them.

Chalfen (2003) advocated photographs as a great tool to help the owner maintain the memory of their pet, noting:

Similarities can be found in the photography of both human family

members and their household pets. For instance, pets are likely to be

posed; they are more likely to be photographed when they are healthy and

playing rather than sick; they are likely to be photographed more when

they are very young rather than very old. (p.146).

Chalfen further supported the idea that companion animals are often considered as a part of the family and just as individuals keep photographs of their human companions, they also keep photographs of their pet companions. Displaying these photographs after the pet dies may be a helpful way to maintain a bond with the pet.

Often times, mental health clinicians such as counselors, social workers, therapists, and psychologists are in the position to help individuals cope with their grief over the loss of their companion animal. A clinician can normalize an individual’s grief 41 and offer the support the individual is lacking elsewhere (Donahue, 2005; Toray, 2004).

Most clients involved with mental health clinicians have experienced the death of a companion animal but will wait to bring up their experience until it’s relatable to something more socially acceptable (Sharkin and Bahrick, 1990; Toray, 2004). Due to the embarrassment associated with grieving over the loss of the pet, Donahue (2005) suggests that clinicians add a pet screening question during the initial interview with the client. Talking openly about the companion animal, sharing memories and the experience of loss can also be helpful to the client (Donahue 2005). Giving clients an understanding of the grief process is often helpful (Toray, 2004). Donahue (2005) encourages educating society that grief experienced over the loss of a companion animal is a justified and substantial experience (Donahue, 2005).

Sharkin and Bahrick (1990) reported that most individuals follow a typical pattern of grief reactions; however, for individuals who have difficulty establishing closeness with other people, a grief reaction may be excessive following the loss of a pet, resulting in depression or even suicide. The first step in helping individuals cope is by acknowledging the loss. In some cases, individuals may need permission to grieve.

Also, consultation with professionals in the health care field is recommended by Sharkin and Bahrick (1990) to increase the sensitivity to the emotional impact of the pet’s death.

Clinicians can also plan and implement workshops designed to instruct veterinary students in ways of dealing appropriately and effectively with grief reactions.

When working with children, Sharkin and Know (2003) recommend that clinicians display animal photos and stuffed animals. Sometimes even a live pet in the office can convey that the clinician values pets as much as the child. This can help to promote 42 active communication in a therapeutic session. Sharkin and Know (2003) also recommend older children be involved in the euthanasia decision, as well as allowing them to decide whether to be present for the pet’s death. This can give children a sense of control over the major events that occur in their lives.

Support groups can also provide assistance for individuals dealing with the bereavement over the loss of a companion animal. Dunn, Mehler, and Greenburg

(2005) started a short-term grief support group at a veterinary training hospital. The group had an average attendance of 8 to– 12 people and would meet twice per month for 2 hours. The group facilitators did not mandate any particular number of sessions, but allowed individuals to come and go as needed. Most pet owners would attend short term, between 2-10 sessions, but some pet owners stayed for several months.

According to researchers, group members were very grateful for the opportunity to share their experience of pet ownership and the grief they felt over the loss of their pet.

Cowles (1985) notes that for some individuals their first experience losing a companion animal in combination with a lack of social support may cause feelings of emotional instability or a feeling as if they are going crazy. The individual may not be familiar with feelings of intense grief which a support system/group can help normalize

(Cowles, 1985).

Turner (1997) conducted a pilot study featuring a pet loss hotline in Ohio.

Students of veterinary medicine received six hours of training from an experienced pet grief counselor and then worked the hotline. The hotline ran three times per week in 3 hour shifts, typically one call was answered per shift (Turner, 1997). In addition the students received supervision and support about once per month to deal with their 43 emotions regarding the calls received. Callers often wanted to know how to help family members. Despite receiving training specifically on how to help children, the volunteers still felt uncomfortable in these situations (Turner, 1997). More than half the callers were seeking advice or permission for euthanasia of their pet. Guilt, lack of social support, and a lack of understanding from a spouse, family member, friends or co-workers were commonly mentioned as barriers to overcoming grief. The sample was small, therefore, conclusions drawn from this study may not be generalizable.

Stallones (1994) surveyed pet owners who had experienced the death of their pet after treatment at Colorado State University Veterinarian Teaching Hospital. The participants had an opportunity to participate in counseling provided by the teaching hospital after experiencing the death of their companion animal. The researcher found depressive symptoms were significantly lower among individuals who received counseling (55.6%) than those who did not (17.3%).

There is no one size fits all approach to coping with grief. If family members, friends, veterinary staff, and clinicians are aware and able to normalize the emotions surrounding the grief experience, the individual is likely to better cope with the readjustment to their lives.

Summary

In summary, grief is a natural process following a tragic loss. However, painful the emotions, it is a necessary part of bereavement. Grief is a complicated process that is unique to each individual. Individuals with disabilities and the elderly have an especially complicated bereavement process in which they grieve not only the loss of their companion animal, but also the loss of their independence. Children cope with 44 grief in very distinctive ways depending on both age and stage of development. The decision to euthanize adds additional distress to the grieving process and can further compound the intensity of the grief. Working through the grief after the loss of a pet is an intricate process. And Western culture does not readily sanction an obvious expression of grief. For some individuals this may be their first experience of loss and grief. Therefore, understanding the ways of expressing and coping with this loss become important factors for the individual’s experience of future losses.

This study provides a more in-depth qualitative analysis of this grief experience following the death of a beloved companion animal. By expanding on current literature, this researcher seeks to create a more integrated synopsis of the grief experience felt by not only the individual pet owner but also to identify universal characteristics of this grief experience. The hope is that future clinicians, researchers, and veterinarians will gain a better understanding of this phenomenon and create a foundation to advance future studies and interventions surrounding this experience of grief.

Chapter 3: Methodology

Method

Phenomenology is a philosophy as well as a research method. Edmund Husserl, considered the father of phenomenology, suggested “…researchers who attended only to external, physical stimuli that could be isolated and correlated with other isolated responses, not only missed important variables but ignored context and created a highly artificial situation” (Laverty, 2003, as cited in Jones, 1975). Phenomenology is not an experimental science, as it is the study of lived experience and an attempt to understand and describe the essence of that experience. It does not control the environment; rather phenomenology seeks to understand occurrences in the contact of the environment. Phenomenology focuses on the day to day of human behavior for a better understanding of how people perceive themselves in this world.

Stewart and Mickunas (1990 as cited in Creswell 2013) highlight four

“philosophical perspectives in phenomenology.” The first is a return to the Greek methods of philosophy. Thus phenomenology allows the researcher to return to the search for wisdom and not be limited by experimental science. Phenomenology uses methods of research that are far less constricting than experimental methods thus allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon being studied.

Second phenomenological researchers suspend all judgement and preconceived notions. In order for this to occur the researcher must first acknowledge and set aside biases to be able to approach the exploration in a “not knowing” perspective. Third researchers practice the “intentionality of consciousness,” -- the awareness that the reality of an object is associated to one’s perception of the object. And fourth, 46 investigators balance subject/object dichotomy, in that the individual can both be the subject observed and the object observing it.

For this study, a qualitative phenomenological approach was used in order to gain a deeper understanding of the lived experience from pet owners who have lost their companion animal. “Phenomenology has had an impact on 20th century thinking not only because of its rigorous descriptive approach but also because it offers a method for accessing the difficult phenomena of human experience” (Giorgi, 1997). The experience of grief over the loss of a long-term companion animal has not been well defined, therefore a phenomenological approach is the best way to assure no significant elements are overlooked.

As with any study of this nature, there are some limitations. Some of the biggest concerns in phenomenological research are the lack of randomization and, control groups as well as sample sizes that are typically smaller than those recruited for quantitative studies. The nature of this type of research is that participants are selected based on their experience with the phenomenon being studied and they are not compared to others selected for not having had this experience. The depth of the data collected does not allow for larger sample sizes therefore, generalizability is not possible. Moustakas (1994) points out one benefit of having multiple participants is potentially an increase in the strength of meanings across participants by allowing for the possibility of the analysis to determine similarities within the data. The depth of phenomenological studies increases the likelihood of finding both similarities and differences that are present. 47

Research Design

Participants. Study participants were male or female pet owners who experienced the death of their companion animal within the last year. For the purposes of this study, companion animals were limited to either a cat or a dog and could not be animals whose primary role is functional, such as a service dog.

Study author intended to recruit 4-6 participants, with every effort made to gain equal numbers of male and female participants. Participants were to be a variety of ages but all were over the age of 18. Participants who have reached retirement will also be excluded from the study. Ideally, they would have represented a variety of ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds; however, all did reside in Southern California.

Participants were pre-screened to see if they met the entrance criteria of age and loss of a companion animal within the past year, as well as if they were willing to share information about the experience. If the researcher felt sharing such information may have distressed the potential participant, the interview was not conducted.

This study used both open sampling and snowball sampling methods. Open sampling is a nonprobability method of sampling used for convenience in which the researcher seeks out the participants from the population in which he or she would like to study. Additionally, snowball sampling is done by using the initial respondents to gain more respondents. A flyer (Appendix B) was distributed to veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and clinicians to recruit participants. Additionally, a paragraph (Appendix C) detailing the need for participants in this study was provided to local veterinarian offices and can be included on a veterinarian’s exit/discharge paperwork. Participants might 48 also be asked to refer others with a similar experience, although it should be noted this leads to an increased bias.

Interview and data collection procedures. Prior to any data collection, the researcher did help the participant to complete an informed consent regarding their participation in this study (Appendix D). The document informed the participant of the purpose of the study, confidentiality, freedom to withdraw from the study, as well as any anticipated risks and benefits from the interviews. Participants were then given a quick demographic questionnaire to obtain their age, gender, marital status, children, and level of education (Appendix E). Next, the participant participated in a 30-55 minute, in- depth, semi-structured, in person interview. The participant was asked both open ended and closed ended questions so the participant could fully express their views. The researcher constructed the interview, using original questions (Appendix F). Additional probing was necessary to either enhance the richness of or clarify the information presented by the participant. The interview was be recorded and then transcribed.

Participants were provided with a copy of their transcripts to check for accuracy of information. A follow up email was sent to each participant to allow for additional interview time, to check for accuracy, and to conclude the research.

Data analysis. Giorgi (1997) described the phenomenological process as encompassing three steps. The first is the phenomenological reduction. This process helps to winnow data collected from research and make it more precise. The second step involves a description of the findings to construct and interpret the data. And the third is the search for essences. Giorgi (1997) illustrates this final step when he writes:

…one could say that an essence is the most invariant meaning for a context. It is the 49 articulation, based on intuition, of a fundamental meaning without which a phenomenon could not present itself as it is. It is a constant identity that holds together and limits the variations that a phenomenon can undergo. (p. 242).

Giorgi (1997) recommends a “global reading” of the data before any analysis can take place. At this time the researcher is not placing any meaning upon the data, only retaining a global sense of the data and checking for accuracy. The data researcher transcribed the data. After transcription, the researcher sent to each participant a copy of their own transcript along with a summary of the data and a list of themes to check for accuracy and additional information. The researcher then constructed a list of themes across participant interviews and transcripts.

The researcher then developed a structural description of what the participant experienced and a textural description of how the participant experienced it (Creswell,

2013). These two descriptions were combined “to convey an overall essence of the experience,” (Creswell, 2013). The researcher was also aware that one should be careful to never force the data into any singular structure that the data does not allow

(Giorgi, 1997). This description was also sent by the researcher to the participant to be checked for accuracy.

During the data collection and analysis the researcher did attempt to become aware of and suspend her own biases and presuppositions through a process of bracketing. Creswell (2013) describes bracketing as “…investigators set[ting] aside their experiences, as much as possible, to take a fresh perspective toward the phenomenon under examination,” (p. 80). While pure objectivity is an unrealistic goal, the researcher 50 kept a reflective journal throughout this process in hopes of remaining open enough to allow for unexpected meanings and themes to emerge.

Ethical Issues

Confidentiality. Due to the sensitive nature of the content that was collected, participants’ identities will be protected. The participant’s personal information will be limited to first names, emails, and phone numbers collected to communicate with participants and will be safely kept in a lock box at a secure location for seven years.

Participants will be asked not to give their full names during recording. In addition, transcribers were instructed to change the first names of participants to a predetermined pseudonym to further protect the participant’s identity.

Informed consent. Participants were provided an informed consent agreement to read and sign (see Appendix B). This form did include the nature of the study, study procedures, confidentiality, potential benefits, risk of harm, and additional participant’s rights. The participants were given a copy of this form with the researcher’s contact information for future referrals/resources if the need arises or if the participant wished to withdraw from the study at any time.

Harm. Due to the sensitive nature of the content of this study the participant may have felt some emotional discomfort. Participants were offered a national pet support hotline, ASPCA Grief Counseling Hotline: 877-GRIEF-10 (877-474-3310) to call for additional emotional support or counseling if needed.

Chapter 4: Results

A flyer was posted in veterinary offices and community counseling clinics in a small community in Southern California to recruit participants for this phenomenological study formulating the meaning of the loss of a long-term companion animal. Six adults

(5 women and 1 man) responded to the flyer or were referred by other participants, and met criteria for inclusion in the study. They were interviewed by The Researcher from

April 2017 through June 2017. The mean age of participants was approximately 40.

The mean length of interview was approximately 43 minutes with interviews ranging from 33 minutes to 53 minutes. The interviews resulted in a total of 49 transcribed single-spaced pages. The Researcher reviewed and analyzed the interview texts according to set determinants, as per Giorgi. The texts were then consolidated and organized into themes. These themes were characterized as follows: (a) the grief reaction; (b) the experience of the death itself: euthanasia, accident, or natural; (c) factors leading to more intense grief; and (d) coping with the loss of the companion.

Participants

Each interview was comprised of 12 pre-determined questions that were designed to elicit the experiences of the individual who had lost their pet. Each individual’s demographic profile is presented in this study in order to provide the context of the relationship with their pet as well as to present the larger context for the results of the study. Pseudonyms were selected by the Researcher for each participant and their pet to ensure confidentiality. Table 1 offers a concise description of the demographic characteristics of the participants. 52

Kimberly. Kimberly is a 30-year-old Caucasian female and a college graduate.

She is currently employed in the administrative/clerical field. At the time of this interview she was single but in a long-term relationship with her boyfriend whom she did not live with. She did, however, live with a roommate. She was very talkative during her interview and appeared comfortable despite having some tears as she shared her experience of loss.

She has had several pets throughout her life and “grew up with cats.” These cats passed away when she was about 10-years-old. Therefore, when a friend of hers asked if she would, “take in her cat” she was agreeable. The cat’s name was Pandora, and she had been in a shelter before being adopted by Kimberly’s friend. Therefore, her cat was approximately 10 –years-old upon coming to live with Kimberly. Kimberly refers to her relationship with her animal companion as “loving” and “close.” She stated, “…she was a lovable, loveable cat and I loved her.”

Throughout their companionship, her cat had many health issues that Kimberly was able to manage such as obesity and diabetes. Through veterinary care, insulin, and diet these issues were managed and had minimal effects on her pet’s quality of life.

But emotionally, Kimberly felt taking care of her in this way made their bond even stronger.

Kimberly had Pandora as a companion for five years before her cat developed cancer and Kimberly had to make the painful decision to have her euthanized.

Tiffany. Tiffany is a 41-year-old Caucasian female and a college graduate.

Tiffany has completed a doctoral degree in a helping field. At the time of this interview she was single and living alone. She appeared to have some mild anxiety and 53

tearfulness as she shared her story but reiterated several times that she thinks this is a

“wonderful study” and feels it’s nice “…just to know that my relationship with her will go

to something useful and beneficial.”

Tiffany stated she has had lots of pets in her life but she was closest, by far to

Sadie, a black lab, golden retriever mix whom Tiffany acquired from a pet store when

she was just an 8-week-old puppy. Tiffany and her animal companion had a close bond

and Tiffany referred to her pet as the “constant in my life.” While sharing memories of

walks, car rides, and snuggling Tiffany became teary eyed but said her tears were

happy tears despite missing her dog so much. Sadie lived a long, healthy life until her

body started to fail her at 11-years-old when Tiffany had to make the heartbreaking

decision to have her euthanized.

Table 1 Participant Demographic Information

Participant Gender Age Ethnicity Marital Status Level of Education Children Pet

Kimberly F 30 Caucasian Single College Graduate 0 Cat

Tiffany F 41 Caucasian Single Graduate Degree 0 Dog

Judy F 55 Caucasian Widowed College Graduate 2 Dog

Anastasia F 37 Caucasian Single Some College 0 Cat

Charlotte F 45 Caucasian Married Specialized Training 2 Dog

Everett M 34 Caucasian Engaged Graduate Degree 0 Dog

Judy. Judy is a 55-year-old Caucasian female who has graduated from college

and works in finance. At the time of this interview she was widowed, with two grown 54 children. Now she is in a newer relationship with a boyfriend who has 2 adolescent children. Judy is also living with a roommate and her roommate’s dog. She was succinct and clear in her narrative. Judy had acquired two “…little white malti-poos,” when her children were young. The dogs were named for characters in novels: Boot and

Grouchy. Judy described Boot as, “…a little bit more Maltese, more of a long body, a little more athletic…,” and Grouchy as, “…a little more prim and proper poodle shape.”

Three months ago Judy had to make the decision to euthanize Boot.

The dog, Boot, had lived to be eleven years old. He is survived by his brother

Grouchy. Judy and her kids put a lot of time and attention into making sure her dog had a good quality of life and made an extra effort to maintain his health resulting in him living six months longer than what the vet had anticipated. Judy spoke fondly of taking her animal companion on walks and playing at the park.

Anastasia. Anastasia is a 37-year-old Caucasian female with some college education who works in an administrative capacity. At the time of the interview she was single and lived alone. Anastasia was able to provide a unique perspective to this study because she had lost 3 pets within twelve months. She was energetic and talkative.

Anastasia had 3 cats: Smokey, Ginger, and Ninja. She acquired Smokey from an out of town shelter and then a couple of years later, Ginger and Ninja, who “…were feral twins that I adopted from the local shelter.” Anastasia was originally told that her cat, Smokey, had a “…terrible liver…” and would only live a few weeks. Despite this poor prognosis her cat lived to be 16-years-old and was the “…alpha cat…” of the pack.

Anastasia appeared quite proud of this but admitted she didn’t take extraordinary steps to prolong the life of her animal companion. Ginger and Ninja looked almost identical 55 and came from the same litter. According to Anastasia the twins did everything together and were described as “…joined at the hip.” Anastasia repeatedly referred to her 3 cats as her children and even went as far as stating she “…would take a bullet for them.”

Anastasia was devastated when her cats passed away naturally within a year of each other.

Charlotte. Charlotte is a 45-year-old Caucasian female with some specialized training in the medical field. At the time of this interview Charlotte was living with her husband and teenage son. She also has a college-aged son who is only home during holidays and school breaks. She appeared comfortable telling her story. At times she was very matter-of-fact and at others more expressive. Charlotte adopted Foxy as a puppy. She was a golden, retriever, yellow lab mix. She referred to her as an easy and lovely dog. Charlotte’s youngest son was 2-years-old when her dog was adopted, therefore he doesn’t even remember life without her. Charlotte related a fun memory of how her animal companion was able to sneak on the raft during a white water rafting trip her family took.

Charlotte’s family lived with their pet for 14 years until they had to make the difficult decision to have her euthanized.

Everett. Everett is a 35-year-old Caucasian male who holds a graduate degree and is working in a helping field. At the time of this interview he lived alone with his fiancé. Everett owned Bear who was a Terrier, American Staffordshire, pit-bull terrier mix. Bear was acquired from a local shelter after Everett decided to get sober. “I was off of crystal meth for about 3 days and decided that it would help me stay sober if I was 56 responsible for an animal.” Luckily, a dog was just what Everett needed to remain in recovery.

Everett speaks fondly of taking his animal companion hiking and on walks around the neighborhood. Despite loving the outdoors the dog was not a fan of the beach but loved to snooze in the sun. For the last two years the dog was living locally with Everett’s parents due to Everett’s hectic work schedule and having to be gone from home for long hours. Despite this separation Everett visited Bear 3-4 times per week at his parent’s house. Everett and his animal companion were together for approximately

12 years before Everett had to make the devastating decision to euthanize him.

The Participants

The individuals in my study were demographically similar but still offered variable responses to the study questions. All were Caucasian and well-educated, having “some college” to a doctorate degree. All were employed in white-collar professions. Only two participants had children however, all but two had a romantic partner. Each participant had either a cat or a dog that they had acquired at least five years before the animals’ death. All but one participant had lost their pet within the last 12 months. All but one participant had owned previous pets. As a whole, this cohort of participants exhibited remarkable resilience in their stories of losing a beloved companion animal. They each had a variety of feelings as they experienced the death of their pet, and the process of grief directly following the experience of the pet’s death. There was also variance in what was found most helpful in the bereavement experience. Each experience was slightly different, but in the end, for the most part they each managed to find meaning in their experience. 57

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to explore and formulate meaning for individuals who have struggled or are struggling with the experience of grief over the loss of a long-term animal companion.

As the interviews proceeded and themes began to emerge, there were a number of categories that emerged that began to define the construct of the search for meaning. These included: (a) the grief reaction; (b) the experience of the death itself: euthanasia, or natural; (c) factors leading to more intense grief; and (d) coping with the loss of the companion.

The Grief Reaction

Kimberly. Kimberly described the euthanasia as hard and the loss of her cat as similar to losing a member of her family. Kimberly stated she felt daily sadness for about a month before starting to feel as though she would recover from her grief. Kimberly shared that even now, nine months later, she would become tearful when talking about her cat or thinking about her experience.

In addition to the feelings of sadness Kimberly felt a void within her household noting “Pandora was a big presence in my apartment.” She went on to explain

You know the house is really quiet without Pandora. It’s like you can’t play

with the cat. You can’t talk about the cat. You can’t hold the cat.

Like…Pandora very much was a personality, like she was very much a

character of her own. And so it was very noticeable when she wasn’t

there. 58

Kimberly was so sad she went to the shelter after about a month and adopted two kittens to help to distract her from the sadness and loneliness she was feeling.

Tiffany. Tiffany described her initial grief period as “…really intense.” The most difficult emotion that developed for Tiffany was guilt. Tiffany states she felt she:

…wasn’t able to do enough for her. And then I got…you know…There

were times I got irritated at her. You know because…you know I was

stressed and I’d come home and she had urinated and I had to clean that

and clean her. And it became worse and worse. And not having much

help with that.

Tiffany went onto say that for several months she was not very kind to herself and very angry. Even though it’s been just over a year, Tiffany continues to try to assuage her guilt and anger by telling herself she did the best she could for her dog. Even though she knew there was nothing more she could do she still felt as though she didn’t do enough. Tiffany also recalls the anticipation of her pet’s death:

Rationally you know…I knew she wouldn’t be around but…I mean you

knew she wasn’t going to live forever. But I think I thought she’d be around at

least a while longer. And I think I was in denial about some of her signs. And

things were not going well and you know trying to do all of these things…to

intervene.

Despite the anticipation of the dog’s death, Tiffany still felt a level of shock and denial when she actually had to make the decision to euthanize her animal companion.

Tiffany also mentioned that the absence of her dog, in her everyday life was

“tremendous.” Going to and from the car without her dog waiting in the driver’s seat for 59

Tiffany’s return would bring feelings of grief. The loneliness Tiffany felt while walking would cause her to cry. And even seeing a person with their dog would make Tiffany feel anger and jealousy. Tiffany also shared that the loss of her pet changed the relationship she had with a close friend who also has a dog. Tiffany, her friend, and their dogs would spend time together. Unfortunately, after her dog passed, Tiffany lost interest in spending time with this friend because the pain of seeing her with her dog was too much for her to bear.

Judy. At the time of the interview with Judy, her dog had been dead just three months. Judy stated she was still really grieving. She noted “…it started to get easier maybe after a month but you know I still think about it a lot.” Judy was able to anticipate her pet’s death because she knew he was sick but still shared a sense of denial after the initial loss. Judy also noted feeling more intense sadness than she had expected.

Judy had brought her dog’s brother to the veterinarian and he happened to witness the euthanasia. She felt good about this because Grouchy, Boot’s brother, would then have a sense of what had happened and wouldn’t think that his brother

“…just disappeared.” Judy shared:

And he (Grouchy) was really depressed, his eating was down. I mean we

kind of mirrored each other. My eating was down, his eating was down.

He was kind of more solemn and not very playful and I was more solemn

and not very playful.

Judy brought to light not only her grief but the grief of her surviving dog as well.

Another consequence of Judy’s grief was the loss of her ability to walk her surviving pet. Judy reported feeling too sad to take her dog on his daily walk and has only been 60 managing to get him out a couple of times per week. She feels as though this is improving over time but still continues to struggle with sadness when faced with walking only one of her beloved dogs.

Additionally, Judy mentioned a “…strong yearning to get another dog.”

Rationally, Judy feels as though she would just be making an attempt to fill the hole she’s feeling in her heart, therefore she has refrained and attempts to “love on” her current animal companion more.

Anastasia. Anastasia’s cats died natural deaths and she reported feeling shock and being “very upset in the moment.” Additionally, Anastasia stated she had the need to check and double check because there was “…slight hope that maybe I’m wrong.”

Anastasia recalled her cat’s not looking as peaceful in death as she would’ve hoped.

She had to close their eyes and their mouths and one cat even urinated herself as she passed.

Anastasia had no anticipation of the grief she would feel, especially with the death of her first cat. And while she experienced sadness and grief after the loss of her first cat she also reported feeling a sense of relief on behalf of her other two cats, who had been continuously “bullied” by this cat. But that relief also brought up feelings of guilt for Anastasia.

The sadness and grief after the loss of her second cat, Ginger, also came with a sense of relief. This relief was more that Anastasia did not have the responsibility of caretaking a sick cat anymore. This feeling of relief also made Anastasia feel guilty.

Anastasia felt additional guilt because she didn’t take her cat to the veterinarian and feels as though she could have done more to prevent the death. 61

In the midst of her grief from the loss of her second cat, Anastasia lost her third and only remaining cat, Ninja two weeks after Ginger’s death. Anastasia felt as though her cat were in the grief process over losing her companion and didn’t realize that perhaps she was also sick. Her death came as a surprise to Anastasia who came home to find her pet had passed while curled up napping. This death brought the most intense sadness of all and left Anastasia feeling as though she was empty both inside of herself and in her house. Anastasia recalls “This was the first time in my life I’ve had no pet in the house. It was really weird.”

Anastasia felt as though her sadness was deep and she had become depressed for a while. While she still grieves the loss of her pets she feels as though she is healing more and more over time and is able to find some solace in the knowledge that she gave her cats the best quality of life she could.

Charlotte. Looking back upon her experience Charlotte expressed some guilt that her family had waited too long to make the decision to euthanize their dog.

Charlotte voiced regret in realizing, in retrospect, that their dog was in some discomfort in the months leading up to her euthanasia. She feels her family was being selfish and wanted to keep their animal companion around longer because they didn’t want to let her go.

Charlotte also described a pervasive sadness and emptiness impacting her entire family since their dog hasn’t been with them. The dog would spend her weekend following Charlotte’s husband around from room to room and he has commented on how lonely the weekends feel without his animal companion. Charlotte misses going on 62 walks with the dog as well as having someone to see on her lunch break and at the end of a long day. Charlotte shared

…animals are definitely a huge stress reliever…And so I think that’s been

a huge thing, you know to come home at night in an empty house…a dog

that was so happy to see you regardless of anything else that’s going on.

Even Charlotte’s son has commented on the absence stating he wished he had a dog to walk as he was heading out the door. Charlotte went on to say “…Foxy always knew everything before everyone else. She was the first confidant.” For Charlotte and her family she shared this has been a “very solemn experience.”

Charlotte shared that she is haunted by the image of her pet happily getting into the car and going into the veterinarian’s office. She feels bad the dog had no idea she was being euthanized and Charlotte feels this as an act of betrayal on her end.

Charlotte doesn’t know if this feeling will ever leave her.

Everett. Everett was thankful he was available as his pet was dying and that he was able to take him to the veterinarian and be present for his euthanasia. Being available to his dog during this time was important to Everett. And as he started to anticipate his animal companion’s death as he aged Everett would have conversations and read internet articles relating to the best course of action during this time. Despite being thankful for his presence at the euthanasia, Everett was deeply saddened and stated “I cried so much, you know. And I had no idea…it was hard to make the decision to do that and I don’t regret it.” Even though this was difficult for Everett he has no regrets about euthanizing his pet. Everett did however, mention feeling guilty because 63 he was unable to spend as much time as he would have liked with his dog over the last couple of years.

Despite his pet living with Everett’s parents, Everett still felt a huge absence in his life after euthanizing his dog. Everett avoided his parents’ house initially and has cut his visits over there by half. Everett also avoids looking at photos of his pet and becomes saddened and angered when photos of him and his dog appear on social media. Additionally, when Everett sees others walking their dogs he becomes both angered and jealous. When offered to hold a puppy at his place of work he stated he

“…just felt empty inside.”

Everett also commented that during the initial phase of grief, although he was very sad he didn’t have the time in his busy schedule to really devote the appropriate time he needed to grieve. He noticed that instead of his grief interfering with his life emotionally his grief would show up in more physical ways. Everett states

I felt more tired. Um…I felt more fatigued. I felt like I was getting sick and I

powered through it for work but I just felt under the weather. I noticed that

my performance in athletics is dwindled a little bit and that my ability to

focus and concentrate at work is sort of like…I don’t know…

Everett went onto explain that what used to seem like big issues now became small insignificant issues.

In addition to the physical symptoms, Everett had the urge to go get a new dog.

But then stated he was glad he didn’t because he realizes now that would have been a reaction to the grief: trying to fill the void he was feeling. Everett is glad he didn’t act on 64 his impulse and can now step back and appreciate his pet for just being “a really good dog.”

Euthanasia

Kimberly. Kimberly took her cat, Pandora, into the veterinarian for a check-up regarding her diabetes. Kimberly had noted her cat just wasn’t her usual self and was concerned she might have to go back on insulin. In fact, the diagnosis was cancer fluid developing around her cat’s heart. Kimberly had the liquid removed from her cat’s heart three times to try to maintain a good quality of life for her pet. However, after the third procedure, the veterinarian brought up the option of euthanasia and after realizing her pet had a poor prognosis; Kimberly made the difficult decision to euthanize her pet.

Kimberly made an appointment, but in the end called a day early because she was worried her cat wouldn’t make it to the appointment. Kimberly said she didn’t want her animal companion to suffer unnecessarily. Kimberly stated the veterinarian was

“super, super accommodating” and she was able to go in a day early.

Kimberly arrived at the veterinarian and an assistant helped her through the process of deciding what to do with her cat’s body and filling out necessary paperwork up front before heading back into the exam room. Once in the exam room the vet quietly came in and described to Kimberly what was going to happen during this procedure. Kimberly stated “…it was a very thorough process of like she explained to me what she was going to do and then she said before I actually do that you can take as much time with Pandora as you want.” Kimberly stated the veterinarian’s handling of this situation was very comforting to her as she went through this difficult process for the first time, as an adult, on her own without her parents. 65

Kimberly opted to stay with her cat and was able to pet and talk to her as the veterinarian injected her with the medication. After the injection Kimberly was able to pick up her cat and hold her as she passed.

Kimberly, although crying while she shared this information, also stated she was happy she saw her pet through the whole process and was glad she was able to hold her as she said her goodbyes.

Tiffany. Tiffany had noticed a decline in her dog’s health unfolding for several weeks to months before making the decision to have her euthanized. Tiffany states

“So you know she became increasingly incontinent and it was just really

difficult. You know trying to…trying…I tried everything basically. I had her

like in diapers which was you know for a large dog and then she got to the

point where she ummm…, I think she had a tumor. …and I lived on the

second story and I would end up sometimes almost carrying her up the

stairs because she was kind of faltering. So by the time I took her into the

vet and they said there really wasn’t much they could do for her.

So….they put her down.”

Tiffany had come home and noticed her dog was markedly diminished and took her into an emergency veterinary clinic late at night. She described the veterinarian as a “classic undertaker” both “…morose and morbid…” a real “…keeper of the night kind of person.”

The veterinarian let Tiffany know that because Sadie was so old and so sick there was nothing more that could really be done for her at this point. Before the procedure an assistant came into the room and spoke with Tiffany about the options for her dog’s body and completed the necessary paperwork. Upon completion of the paperwork, the 66 veterinarian came back into the room and described the procedure to Tiffany. He also gave Tiffany the option of whether or not she wanted to be in the room with Sadie and

Tiffany chose to say her goodbyes and leave. She was worried she would try to intervene and noted in the interview “I just had to let her go.”

Judy. Judy took her dog into the veterinarian for an exam after it became clear that he had “…lost a lot of weight, he had gotten very, very thin and so I was afraid that that was becoming uncomfortable for him.” The veterinarian at that time made the recommendation for euthanasia. Judy agreed to have him humanely euthanized at that time.

As the staff was preparing for the euthanasia an assistant came in and explained to Judy the cost and her options of what to do with her dog’s remains. Judy opted not to have her dog cremated due to the financial cost.

The veterinarian came back into the room and explained the procedure and gave

Judy the option to either stay in the room or to leave the room. Judy opted to stay. She also had her teenage son and her other dog, Grouchy, present because she had not expected for this to be a euthanasia appointment. However, she states that her son was a strong support to her despite her being the parent. The veterinarian then proceeded to inject the dog. Judy then stated

“I was a little bit surprised because I thought she was giving him a

sedative to make him more comfortable for when she gave him the lethal

injection. But she had actually given the lethal injection!”

Despite Judy’s “shock” at this misunderstanding, she wasn’t angry. She just felt the veterinarian could have been clearer in communicating the process. In the end this 67

misunderstanding made her “…a little more sad” because she wasn’t fully prepared for

her pet to pass at that specific moment.

Charlotte. Charlotte knew her dog was getting older and despite no obvious

sickness, Charlotte could tell her pet’s body was beginning to falter. Charlotte stated

…her body was failing and her legs…her hips were giving out on her. And

she was just having difficulty going up and down our stairs and she had

fallen a few times. And we were really concerned that she might fall when

one of our sons was here alone with her. Or when she was alone and that

you know just made us kinda nervous. So but we, we had anticipated it. It

was just making a final decision that was difficult.

After many months of witnessing her pet struggle Charlotte and her family had made a

decision to euthanize the dog and Charlotte’s kids decided they did not want to witness

the procedure. Therefore, Charlotte and her husband made an appointment just after

Thanksgiving with a veterinarian who also happened to be a family friend. Charlotte

stated the staff was very professional, comforting, and accommodating. All paperwork

was filled out upfront and once in the exam room the veterinarian gave a clear and

precise explanation of what was about to happen. The veterinarian gave two injections;

one to put the dog into a relaxed state and the other to euthanize her. Charlotte and her

husband chose to leave after the first injection before their animal companion was

totally asleep. They felt they needed the closure but did not want to witness the death of

their beloved pet and have that image ingrained in their memory.

Everett. Everett was at work when he received a phone call from his fiancé and

his mother that his dog, had fallen and was unable to pick himself back up. Because the 68 dog was so heavy neither his fiancé nor his mother could pick the dog up and Everett had to leave work to come and evaluate the situation. Upon arriving at his parent’s house he discovered his pet in the back yard panting, his eyes rolling into his skull, and thrashing about. The dog had urinated on himself and was unable to get up. At that time, Everett called the veterinarian who stated that his pet was actively dying and if

Everett could bring him in then they could ease the pain.

Everett was able to get his pet to the veterinarian’s office and they were able to retrieve the dog from the car using a stretcher. The veterinarian gave the dog some oxygen and a sedative but noted that unfortunately the dog’s brain was swelling and his prognosis was very poor. The veterinarian told Everett basically his only option was to euthanize his pet. After explaining the procedure and filling out the paperwork Everett ran to the car and got his dog’s favorite blanket. The veterinarian put the dog on the blanket and allowed Everett to hold, hug, and kiss his animal companion for as long as he wanted. Everett stated

…my fiancé was in the room and she had bonded with him in the last year

or so. And my dad obviously was like a caretaker for him and they…they

really loved him. But I decided to be kinda selfish about it and just like, just

like have my moments the way I needed to have it.

Everett, upon the advice of a friend, opted to stay in the room for the euthanasia. The veterinarian had given him a sedative and then injected him to put him to sleep. The veterinarian waited until Everett let go of his pet before checking his vitals and confirming his death. 69

Natural Death

Anastasia. Unlike the other participants Anastasia’s three cats passed away naturally at home within twelve months of each other. Her first cat, Smokey, passed within a matter of moments at home. The cat was about 12 years old when, “She ran up the stairs and like meowed really loud and then I heard a thud and then I went upstairs and she lit…I don’t know if she had had a heart attack or what but she just was dead.”

Within the next several months, Anastasia’s cat, Ginger, started to get sick.

Anastasia described her as becoming listless and having difficulty eating. Despite being incredibly sick she was still eating, drinking water, and using the litter box, so Anastasia held off taking her to the veterinarian.

One night when Anastasia came home from work, she picked her cat up to feed her and could tell “…she was just like really struggling.” And moments later the cat passed away in Anastasia’s arms while Anastasia was saying her goodbyes.

Roughly two weeks later Anastasia’s last cat, Ninja, began to act sickly.

Anastasia had noted her cat had been depressed since her twin, Ginger, had passed a couple of weeks earlier, but this was different. She took her to the veterinarian, who stated her exam looked good and as far as the veterinarian could tell the cat was still grieving the loss of her twin. A few nights later, her pet went to sleep curled up with

Anastasia, which was unusual for her because she tended to have a particular sleeping spot. The next day after work, when Anastasia walked into the door she heard her cat meowing. She came to her side and her animal companion passed away while

Anastasia comforted her. 70

Factors for More Intense Grief

Three out of the 6 participants in this study appeared to have additional qualifying factors occurring in their life which may have intensified their grief reaction or lengthened their period of grief.

Tiffany. At the time of her dog’s death, Tiffany was busy finishing her doctorate degree, which was inclusive of a fellowship as well as a dissertation. In addition to the stress of completing a post-graduate degree, Tiffany was preparing to move out of town to continue on with a post doctorate fellowship. Along with these life changes, Tiffany also had a birthday she considered to be significant because she was turning 40, which brought additional emotions during this time period. Tiffany stated:

So there was just like this whole…you know, this whole storm of emotions.

And in hindsight, an incredible growth opportunity because I’ve learned a

lot about grief and loss. Even though I have experienced a lot of that in my

life with people and like I said, lots of pets. But never as significant as that.

This compounded the stress Tiffany was feeling while also enduring with the experience of her pet’s passing.

On several occasions Tiffany also referred to her pet as her “child” or “like my child.” Tiffany, although she has nieces and nephews, doesn’t have children of her own and found her dog to be a substitute for that absence. She felt as though this strengthened the bond she had with her pet and made her death much more significant of a loss.

Judy. Judy mentioned during her interview that her husband had passed away from cancer three years ago and the death of her dog Boot really felt like an extension 71 of that grief. She stated there was a prolonged period when “…I had to nursemaid my husband and I had to nursemaid the dog.” The similarities between the two deaths brought up many of the same feelings for Judy, who stated that even now she really was still in her bereavement period over the loss of her dog.

Additionally, Judy mentioned

If finances would have allowed I might have had him cremated and kept

the ashes. But um…there wasn’t really enough. Actually when my

husband died three years ago it wasn’t an option then either. We donated

his body to science.

Judy mentioned several times throughout the interview that her dogs are an extension of her and the death of her pet an extension of the death of her husband. Judy also mentioned not having financial resources to make the decision about what happened to her husband or her dog made her grief seem stronger.

Anastasia. Anastasia had a unique story in that not only did she experience the loss of three pets over the past 12 months, these deaths followed several other intense losses. She shared that her best friend since childhood had died of a long-term illness the previous year and, soon after, her Aunt had passed away. Anastasia described this as a “horseshoe of death” and felt her grief was intensified by so much death happening in such a short period of her life.

Additionally, Anastasia is unable to have children due to a medical condition diagnosed in childhood. Therefore, her cats had become her children and she often referred to herself as their “mom” during the interview. 72

Furthermore, Anastasia had had a cancer diagnosis as well as an accident in which she cracked a vertebra leaving her on disability, unable to work for a short period of time. Due to her medical issues, finances became a source of anxiety during this time and she became overwhelmed with feelings of depression after her cats passed away.

Anastasia is seeking professional help for her depressive symptoms and feels that over time and with proper medical treatment she is improving.

Coping With the Loss

Kimberly. Kimberly decided to have her cat cremated. She continuously stated throughout the interview that the veterinarian’s office did a great job of organizing and presenting this information to her so she was aware of all of her options. This helped to alleviate the stress of what she was going to do with her cat after she was euthanized and allowed Kimberly to more fully focus on her grief in the moment. Kimberly described picking up her pet’s ashes:

And they were in this beautiful little wooden box and there was like a

golden plaque on top that has her name engraved on it. And then the

inside of the box her ashes are in a plastic bag, that’s labeled. But then

the plastic bag is enclosed in like a velvet pouch. And they have a whole

little thing on top of it labeled Pandora. It’s a very nice presentation.

Kimberly was pleased with the cremation process and has decided to keep her on her

“cat patio” on a nice table with plants surrounding her. Kimberly states that she

“…loved laying out on the patio looking out over the house next door and watching the birds fly by and everything. And so I think that’s a good place for her to be.” Kimberly 73 went onto explain she feels good having her animal companion close by and feels she can remember her happily in this way.

Kimberly also noted the importance of having a good support system throughout her bereavement experience. Kimberly listed her mom, roommate, boyfriend, and therapist as some of her primary supportive figures. She did note she was able to take the time off of work she needed to work through her initial grief and felt good that her boss had been very understanding.

Kimberly was also surprised to receive a card in the mail from the veterinarian a few weeks later. All the employees had handwritten notes of condolence and they had included a poem about her cat arriving at Rainbow Bridge. This was so special to

Kimberly that this particular veterinarian’s office would take the time to write this card she said she is happy she went through the euthanasia process with a veterinarian who understands the importance of the role a pet plays in an individual’s life.

Lastly, Kimberly mentioned she did adopt two kittens about a month after her pet’s passing. She felt the amount of time that had passed was adequate for her to move forward and build a bond with a new pet as well as enough time for the majority of her grief to have passed. Kimberly shared her sense of closure had happened over several months and that forging a bond with her two new kittens that helped her feel that sense of closure.

Tiffany. Directly after finishing her fellowship, Tiffany went on a road trip to emotionally process all the stress of the previous months including the death of her beloved dog. During the interview she referred to this as a “soul searching trip” and felt 74 this was really the start of her beginning to heal from the pain and sadness she was feeling from her loss.

Tiffany had her pet cremated and continues to hold onto her ashes. She shared,

I have a pillow that has a little pocket where you can keep her picture that

I always had. So I have kind of like this little memorial you know and

um…they did a really nice paw print of her paw. So I have that little plaque

with her ashes and the picture. So yeah I feel good about that. She always

loved being curled up with me. So I always feel like she’s content there.

Additionally, Tiffany kept her dog’s collar in a storage bin. She says she hasn’t pulled the collar out but is aware of its presence.

Tiffany said support was important for her to be able to cope with the pain of the loss. Tiffany was surrounded by supportive people and felt the support was “sensitive and appropriate and even I was surprised because…I think because of their own loss of pets that it mattered significantly to them.” Tiffany additionally felt the idea of a support group would have been beneficial to her had one been available. Unfortunately, the area she was living in at the time did not offer this service to the community.

Ironically one of the activities Tiffany missed the most with Sadie was also the one she found most therapeutic in coping with her loss. Tiffany took solace in walking the beach and looking for sea glass. She shared that it “…just became this kind of like symbolic metaphor of putting the pieces together and just you know beauty out of things being broken…”

Judy. Judy was saddened because she could not afford to have her dog’s body cremated and had wanted to keep the ashes. But due to his older age and failing health 75 she had anticipated his time was short and she had been able to take him to the park and take pictures of him. She displays these pictures on her desk. Judy also keeps his scarf and his collar on her desk. Judy feels good about having these memories and is fond of looking at his pictures.

In addition, Judy found support from her therapist and her roommate to be helpful in coping with her feelings of sadness. She felt her roommate was particularly supportive because her roommate also knew her dog and had loved him.

Judy stated what would have been more helpful during her initial grief reaction would have been more time to grieve. Unfortunately she wasn’t able to take time off of work which left her feeling distracted and unable to focus.

Anastasia. Anastasia’s pets died of natural causes, so she didn’t have the option of having the bodies kept or cremated by the veterinarian. She did look into having a burial at a pet cemetery but found the cost to be more than she could afford. In the end, a friend offered to have her first cat buried in his yard and a second friend offered the same for the twins. Anastasia wrapped each of them in a blanket, placed them in a box, and said a few words about each of them before she and her friends buried them. This element of Anastasia’s experience had been the most important to her healing. Anastasia stated:

And I was like that’s really, really sweet and so we actually had a

memorial for her in his backyard. He dug a hole, she was covered in the

box…I didn’t have to like you know look at her again and we had candles.

And we just had like…I know it’s kind of silly but it was a really sweet send

off. Because I just…there was something weird because these cats were 76

kind of like my kids and I felt really weird about just calling up some like

dump basically to take their remains away. I was like no this is someone

that was special to me.

The memorial services Anastasia held for each of her cats were a way for her to say goodbye and feel as though she was sending them to a better place.

Anastasia likes to think each creak she hears in her house is from one of her cats’ spirits coming to visit her. She has also fostered a new cat that she has since adopted, and, according to Anastasia, this new cat will sometimes “chase ghost kitties.”

The thing Anastasia found to be the most helpful in coping with her grief was the rapid coming together of her friends. Anastasia was surprised by her friends’ allowing her to bury her pets and was pleased her friends recognized and responded to the importance she placed on her cats. Anastasia also mentioned their reassurances that “you did all you can” or “you gave them the best life possible” were helpful because in the end she stated, “You always feel like you did something wrong, like it’s your fault.” And the validation of doing the best she could in the moment was supportive and helpful in reframing the deaths for Anastasia.

Charlotte. Charlotte’s husband didn’t want to have their dog’s body cremated; he wanted the veterinarian to take care of the remains. He explained to Charlotte that the idea of what to do with her ashes would be “looming” over him and he just wanted to say his goodbyes at the time of the euthanasia. Charlotte and her husband never filled out the paperwork to have the body cremated. About a week after the euthanasia occurred Charlotte’s son approached her and asked when they would receive the ashes. After explaining to him they wouldn’t, she got a surprise call from the 77 veterinarian’s office the next day asking them to pick up the ashes of their dog. As it turned out because the veterinarian was a personal friend, the veterinarian went ahead and took care of the cremation services for them. Charlotte’s sons were very happy about this mix up. At the time of the interview, the ashes were still sitting on the fireplace because the snow during the past winter had been so bad that the family had decided to wait until spring to hike up the mountain and spread the ashes. Charlotte had mixed feelings about this herself. She wasn’t looking forward to the tears but stated she was excited that she would be able to remember the memorial. Charlotte shared,

“…I’d rather remember, you know, the day that we all took a nice hike up on the mountain and found a nice pretty spot to spread them.” Charlotte feels as though this memorial will give her and her boys the closure she feels they are currently missing.

Charlotte also spent a lot of time reminiscing about the good memories of her dog. She shared several fond memories of outings and just being at home with her animal companion. For example, in their first day of school pictures, her sons always included the dog. Additionally, Charlotte and her family had set up the Christmas tree a month early just to get family pictures with their animal companion in front of the tree several days before the euthanasia occurred.

Charlotte admits they were not prepared for the void in their routines that was left without their dog. And despite a yearning for a new dog, Charlotte and her husband have decided this is not the best time. They feel a new dog will distract from their relationship with Foxy. But they are open to a new dog at some point in the future.

Charlotte said she found the veterinarian, her friends, and some of her coworkers to be incredibly supportive. Charlotte didn’t openly share the news of her pet’s 78 passing with anyone but when people would ask how her dog was doing. Charlotte would inform them of the news.

Everett. At the time of the interview Everett was still awaiting his dog’s ashes.

He wasn’t yet sure where he would spread them but knew he wanted to have a memorial and spread his pet’s ashes somewhere nice. He feels this step is important for him to feel closure and is looking forward to putting his dog to rest somewhere peaceful.

Everett’s veterinarian took a clay paw print of his dog and mailed that to Everett; however, Everett took the paw print to his parent’s house because:

I don’t like looking at it. I don’t know if I’m going to frame it or anything. I

don’t know what I’m going to do with it, but that was a nice gesture to

have. I don’t think I’ve looked at it but I think his collar is more so him and

his smell.

Everett also has lots of nice pictures of his dog and one day he thinks he’ll make a collage or frame them, but not now. For now the pictures are too painful for him to see.

During the interview, Everett shared that he initially received a huge out-pouring of social support, especially through social media. But as time has gone on, he’s receiving less and less. He felt as though he initially received too much support and found the endless online comments and phone calls to be overwhelming. He states, “I just needed room to breathe.” He recognizes family and friends were coming from a good place but felt their support somehow seemed not quite genuine because they didn’t know his pet in the same way he did. 79

Everett also shared feeling some shame that his grief was so intense over the loss of his dog. He struggled with the idea of comparing his sadness to that of a coworker whose mother died a few weeks ago. In addition, he felt emotionally as though he had lost a child, but rationally thought losing a child must be worse than losing a dog. Everett found the support of a few close friends to share this with and their feedback helped to normalize his experience and allow him to have his experience of grief without those comparisons.

Everett also thought his experience with the veterinarian was positive in helping him cope. The veterinarian was thoughtful, listened, and gave him space to react emotionally in the moment. Additionally, the veterinarian validated Everett’s feelings and the decision to euthanize, which Everett found comforting. And lastly, Everett felt good about being present for his dog’s euthanasia. He had spoken with a friend prior to his dog’s death and had already decided this would be his course of action. The anticipation of this experience and then following through with his decision allowed

Everett to feel as though he had comforted his dog during his dog’s time of greatest need. This gives Everett a feeling of peace.

Chapter 5: Discussion

Introduction

Five women and 1 man described their lived experience with the loss of a long- term companion animal from a variety of perspectives in response to open-ended questions posed by the Researcher. The resulting themes were organized and categorized into platforms of experience undertaken by these individuals in their search for closure and meaning.

This discussion begins with an overview and contextualization of the study findings from the narratives of the 6 participants. The discussion will then briefly address implications of the findings for practice and research. The experience of the

Researcher will be presented. Limitations of the study and concluding comments will then close the discussion.

Overview of Findings

When the emergent themes from interviews were analyzed, the Researcher organized them into four categories: (a) the grief reaction; (b) the experience of the death itself: euthanasia, accident, or natural; (c) factors leading to more intense grief; and (d) coping with the loss of the companion. The grief reaction is inclusive of the emotions or feelings encountered at the time of the experience or shortly thereafter; either the euthanasia or a natural death of the individual’s pet. The experience of the death itself includes the literal experience and what occurred. Factors contributing to more intense grief include any extenuating circumstance or variable that could interfere or compound the normal course of the grief process. And lastly, coping with the loss of 81 the companion includes anything the participant found helpful or not so helpful in accepting the death of their companion animal.

Each participant mentioned during his or her interview that the loss of their pet felt like losing a member of the family, just as Wrobel and Dye proposed in their 2003 study. These researchers also suggested individuals may cope with the loss of a pet multiple times throughout their lives and 3 participants confirmed they had dealt with previous pet losses.

Just as Planchon, Templar, Stokes, and Keller (2002) and Jarolman (1998) reported, the level of attachment between a human and pet can affect the intensity of the grief. Several of the present study’s participants stated their grief was more intense if they were more attached to their pet. Tiffany stated the previous pet deaths she had experienced hadn’t “devastated” her as much as the death of her dog. Tiffany had some insight into why she was more devastated when her pet passed and felt as though she had had more of an attachment level to this dog than her previous pets.

Judy also mentioned that the death of her dog, paralleled in her the emotions and experience of the death of her husband which is further evidence for King and

Werner’s (2001) research indicated the loss of a pet can parallel the loss of a human.

Additionally, Cordaro (2002) and Durkin (2009) proposed Kubler-Ross’s theory of grief is consistent with the grief experience of a long-term pet owner. All of the participants in the current study reported some feelings of disbelief despite some of them knowing their pet was going to be euthanized. Tiffany reported feeling angry -- mainly at herself -- which Cordaro (2002) writes is a typical emotion pet owners have. 82

Finally, four of the participants described a feeling of closure or acceptance before moving out of their initial grief period.

Furthermore, each participant not only conveyed feelings of loss over his or her pet but additionally a sense of loss regarding the activities shared with his or her pet.

This appears to reflect Cordaro’s (2002) dual process model, which is conceptualized as two separate processes occurring at the same time: the loss orientation and restoration orientation. Kimberly and Anastasia recounted noticing that their apartments suddenly seemed quiet, which added to their feelings of loneliness. Tiffany realized walking without her pet was causing her additional grief. Judy began to avoid walking her surviving dog. And Everett avoided going to his parents’ house, where his dog had been living during the last part of his life.

The participants of this study each found a support system in which they could talk and vent, reporting that this had been helpful in coping with their grief. Cordaro

(2002) refers to this as “intuitive grieving.” Additionally, it is interesting to note that the female participants found what Cordaro (2002) terms an “instrumental grieving style” to be helpful; they surrounded themselves in memories that reminded them of their pets.

Everett was the only participant who did not want to be surrounded by photos or memorabilia during his grief period. He did, however, note on several occasions during the interview that he did not throw out photos or his dog’s collar and wanted to keep them for the future. All the participants seemingly used both styles of grieving which

Cordaro (2002) refers to as the “intuitive-instrumental style.”

Furthermore, the interviews with the participants supported the research of

Gosse and Barnes (1994), who suggested the grief period can be affected by the level 83 of attachment between owner and pet, the amount of perceived support received, and additional stressful events co-occurring within the timeframe of the grief experience.

Tiffany, Judy, and Anastasia mentioned events they felt had complicated their grief.

Tiffany was completing her degree, moving, and had a life-changing birthday. Judy was still dealing with the loss of her husband. And Anastasia had multiple deaths and medical concerns layering on top of one another.

Each participant who had participated in the euthanasia process stated the veterinarian had an impact on their level of guilt regarding the decision to euthanize.

This evidence supports Morris’s (2012) research stating veterinarians can be an emotional container for the individuals and the pets they service. Tiffany experienced the veterinarian who performed the euthanasia negatively. She shared:

He was kind of creepy it was like midnight. It was really late, you know,

when I ended up taking her in and he was like, just reminded me of just

this like, you know, classic undertaker. He was very pale and pasty. You

know, kind, but kind of just morose and morbid was the feeling I had about

him. And that could be just my own projection of how I was feeling but he

was a little, you know, keeper of the night kind of person.

Tiffany experienced a tremendous amount of guilt over the euthanasia of her dog and if she had experienced the veterinarian to be more comforting she may have felt more validation regarding her decision to euthanize her pet.

Further, Davis, Irwin, Richardson, and O’Brien-Malone (2003) found pet owners appreciated clear communication, but also valued retaining some decision-making ability regarding their pet’s passing. This proved to be true in this study. The most clear 84 evidence of this principle was Judy’s upset and shock during her dog’s euthanasia process in which she thought her dog would be receiving a sedative, as opposed to the lethal injection.

McCutcheon and Fleming (2002) first proposed pet owners who went through the euthanasia process tended to have more social support than those whose pets die naturally. This was not the case in this study, but it should be remembered that

Anastasia was the only participant whose pet died naturally. She suffered three natural pet deaths only months or weeks apart from one another. She reported lots of social support and feeling as though this was the most helpful element in coping with her grief.

Quackenbush and Glickman (1984) suggested that pet owners do not assuage their grief by taking into account the declining quality of the pet’s life during the final stages of illness. Four of the participants mentioned feeling guilty over some aspect of the euthanasia process. But two of the participants regretted not euthanizing sooner, each attributing the delaying of their decisions to selfishness.

Tiffany, Judy, and Anastasia all had factors leading to a more intense grieving period over the losses of their pets. Just as Lagoni (1994) and Bolin (1987) proposed

Judy felt connected to her husband through her dog and this further complicated her grief process. Additionally, Chur-hansen (2010) and Bolin (1987) suggested being a care giver for a sick pet long-term can complicate the grief, such as was the case with

Tiffany.

Toray (2004) as well as Wrobel and Dye (2003) indicate the use of memorial or burial rituals may help cope with the loss of a long-term pet. One of the participants had participated in a burial ceremony and 2 additional participants were planning on 85 participating in spreading their pet’s ashes through a ceremonial process. Each of these participants felt this was necessary for a sense of closure and their acceptance of the pet’s death. Two of the participants chose to keep their pet’s ashes with them to allow them to feel close to their pet as Chur-Hansen, Black, Gierasch, Pletneva, and

Winefield (2001) recommended. And the remaining participant, Judy, was unable to have the remains of her dog cremated due to financial reasons but stated she would have liked to.

Chalfen (2003) advises photographs are an effective way to maintain the memory of a pet to aid in maintaining an ongoing relationship or bond. Each participant mentioned such photographs made them simultaneously happy and sad. Only one participant, Everett, opted to intentionally avoid photographs during the initial grief period.

None of the participants participated in any type of support group as suggested by Dunn, Mehler, and Greenburg (2005). However, Tiffany did mention she felt as though a support group would have been a helpful adjunct to cope with her grief had one been available.

Practice

This study highlights the need for mental health providers to be sensitive to the individual’s lived experience of grief and bereavement over the loss of a long-term companion animal. The individuals in this study shared how receiving support impacted their grief experience. The grief process encompasses a wide range of emotions from anger and guilt to sadness and remorse (Durkin, 2009; Wrobel and Dye, 2003; Cordaro,

2002). Some pet owners can even experience a sense of relief (Durkin, 2009; Wrobel 86 and Dye, 2003; Cordaro, 2002). The way individuals adapt to this loss can vary greatly between pet owners based on a variety of factors including: past grief experiences with former pets, level of attachment to the pet, and the manner in which the pet passed away (Podrazik, Shackford, Becker, and Heckert, 2000). Mental health providers can help to normalize an individual’s experience of grief. Everett shared he felt he had an inappropriate amount of grief for his dog until his support system was able to normalize his experience for him. Mental Health providers can also offer multiple ways of helping the individual to cope with their feelings such as practicing relaxation techniques or by simply reflecting on the time spent with their pet. Tiffany was able to find hope and closure in her walks along the beach which provided a way for her to relax during the bereavement period. And Judy finds healing in being able to reflect upon her relationship with her animal companion who was euthanized.

Additionally, when an individual has many life stressors occurring during a short duration of time a mental health provider can monitor the individual’s mental well-being and continuously assess for symptoms of depression or anxiety or worsening depression or anxiety if previously diagnosed. This monitoring allows the individual to receive the treatment they need to alleviate symptomology and return to previous levels of functioning.

A pet grief support group would be beneficial to those dealing with this grief because the group would offer support to individuals who otherwise might have very little support. Furthermore, the group would consist of individuals with a similar experience who are having similar emotions. The group would allow for the participants 87 to develop new coping skills and perhaps most importantly normalize the individual’s grief so the participant will know they are not alone.

While there is not one specific treatment modality or protocol to address an individual’s particular need a mix of psychotherapy techniques and sometimes medication can be the most helpful regimen. Additionally, prompt treatment can help to mitigate any long-term consequences of grief (Cordaro, 2002).

Research

The study of an individual’s grief related to the loss of a beloved pet is an increasingly important area of exploration in mental health and veterinary medicine.

This research is necessary within the field of psychology and veterinary care because more and more people are becoming pet owners. Approximately, 70% of the United

States’ population currently own pets (Brown, 2006). Therefore, this issue isn’t limited to a small portion of the population but reflects the majority experience. Furthermore, studies on risks and protective factors that could affect the grieving process would be beneficial in determining the resilience of individuals suffering with the loss. If researchers can develop a clear understanding of the grief process mental health clinicians and veterinary staff can help to ensure high standards of care and better enforce best practices.

Application of the findings of this study to other losses and grief experiences is appropriate and certainly indicated. The grief process from the loss of a beloved animal companion seems to parallel the loss of a beloved human companion rendering the applications of this study beneficial to those also coping with the loss of a beloved human. However, because this area is a growing focus in research more in depth 88 studies looking at the similarities and differences between the loss of a companion animal versus the loss of a human companion would be beneficial.

Experience of the Researcher

The use of self-disclosure as a means of allowing participants to understand a shared frame of reference between the participants and the Researcher was used with caution. I shared with a limited number of participants that I had lost my own 20-year- old cat three years prior to this study only as a vehicle for providing a feeling of sameness and to help normalize the bereavement process.

As a licensed mental health counselor, I anticipated that during the interview process I might experience the desire to provide therapeutic interventions to my participants. In fact, on more than one occasion I was so profoundly moved by what I was hearing that I wanted to provide relief for the obvious pain and distress being expressed by the participant. I also felt the desire to correct misconceptions, labels, and facts about grief, however, that would have been disrespectful to the participant and also would have interfered with the flow of the narrative.

The experience of being with the six individuals in the interview setting, where each individual was sharing personal and distressing information with the potential for high emotional reactivity was slightly intimidating because of the vulnerability they entrusted me with. But I felt as though my participants gave me a great honor in sharing their stories and allowing me to witness the sometimes difficult content of their narratives. I found that one of the immediate effects for me was the triggering of my own grief related to the loss of my pet. I was able to process this with my supervisors as well as informally in conversation with peers and friends. I don’t believe my transference 89 created an obstacle to retaining my objectivity and impartiality in the analysis and subsequent findings of my study. Rather the experience served to reinforce my empathy and enhance the relationships I was developing with my participants.

Limitations of the Study

While the narratives of the individuals in my study reveal much about the lived experiences of six individuals with the common experience of grief and bereavement over the loss of a long-term pet while living in a small Southern Californian community, it is important to remember that qualitative research does not attempt to form generalizations. Instead, qualitative research pursues discovery and the emergence of themes as the outcome. The findings of this study may have relevance to similar populations but there are some aspects of the protocol which can be viewed as limitations.

Participants in this study were solidly middle class, educated, white-collar professionals, who resided in a geographic area often described as somewhat privileged. They were all Caucasian and all but one was female. Therefore, the limitations are: not including participants from other geographical environments, individuals who were representative of other SES statuses as well as educational/vocational levels, and not using a more racially and gender diverse sample of the population.

The age range of participants in this study was between 30 and 55 years of age.

The mean age of the participants was 40.3 years of age. Therefore, one limitation of the study is the lack of younger or older participants outside of this age range. For this study, the Researcher recruited six adults who had recently lost a long-term pet; either 90 a cat or a dog, and who were 18 years or older. Another limitation is the variety of individuals with more diverse pets such as birds or horses.

Additionally, the participants were self-selected respondents to a flyer as opposed to randomly chosen individuals. This suggests some interest on the participants’ parts to be involved in this type of research and the desire to discuss the grief over the loss of their pet.

Conclusion

Six participants with the experience of grief over the loss of their long-term pets were willing to provide their narratives for the purpose of this study. The results show grief is a phenomenon shared after the loss of a beloved pet. Despite the painful emotions, grief is a natural and necessary part of the bereavement process. Grief can be complicated for some and each individual has a unique experience with grief.

Thanks to the participants of this study this Researcher has gained a better understanding of this phenomenon and hopes this will be useful to future clinicians, researchers, and veterinarians in furthering their understanding of the bereavement experience and supporting individuals during this process.

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Appendix A

Prescreening Tool

Are you 18 years or older?

Have you experienced the death of a long-term companion animal (cat or dog) within the last year? 101

Appendix B

Flyer

Are you an animal lover?

Looking for an opportunity to make a difference?

Have you recently lost a long time pet?

Would you be willing to share your experience?

If so…

Become a volunteer in a research study examining the process of grief after the loss of a beloved companion animal.

This study can help individuals like you cope with the loss of their beloved pet.

Your participation is completely confidential and you can withdraw at any time.

Please contact Melissa at XXXX to participate and enter for a chance to win a

$50.00 Visa Gift card.

Your participation will include participating in a one-on-one interview about your pet and your loss, and will take approximately 2-2.5 hours of your time over a three-month period (one initial interview and then a follow-up phone call). Interviews will be transcribed, and your confidentiality will be protected.

102

Appendix C Paragraph for Veterinarian

Experiencing grief after your loss? Become a volunteer in a research study examining the process of grief after the loss of a beloved companion animal. This study can help individuals like you cope with the loss of their beloved pet. Your participation is completely confidential and you can withdraw at any time. Please contact Melissa at

XXXX to participate and enter for a chance to win a $50.00 Visa Gift card. 103

Appendix D

Informed Consent

You are being asked to participate in a research study conducted by a student in the

Doctor of Psychology program at Antioch University in Santa Barbara, Ca. This form

provides information about the study in which you have been invited to participate. This

study has been reviewed and approved by the Antioch University, Santa Barbara

Institutional Review Board.

Why you were selected

You have been asked to participate in this study because you are 18 years or older and

have experienced the death of a long-term companion animal (cat or dog) within the

last year.

Purpose of Study

The purpose of the study, is to support the experiences of loss after a pet. Your

participation will support this aim and contributes to the direction of future treatment for

individuals who experience this loss.

Procedure

If you agree to participate in this study you will first be asked to fill out a brief

demographic survey. Then you will be asked to participate in a one-on-one interview

session with the researcher, which will last approximately 60-90 minutes. You will be

asked to answer questions and to tell your experience of your grief after the loss of your

companion animal. The interview will be conducted by me, the researcher, and will be

tape recorded. And a follow up interview via phone will be take place within several

weeks of your initial interview. 104

Compensation

Full participation in this study will allow you to enter into a raffle for the possibility of

winning a $50 Visa gift card.

Withdrawing from this study

Participation in this study is voluntary. You may withdraw from this study at any time

prior to the completion of the study. You do not have to provide any explanation for your

decision to withdraw. If you choose to withdraw, all information gathered from you as

part of this study will be destroyed. Upon withdrawing from the study you forfeit your

chances of winning the $50 Visa gift card. Additionally, the researcher may withdraw

your participation from this study at any time prior to the completion of the study.

Researcher withdrawal will not forfeit your chances of winning the $50 Visa gift card.

Confidentiality

Your participation in this study will be kept strictly confidential. Surveys, audiotapes, and

all other information provided regarding your identity will be kept under lock and key at

a secure location. Any quotations from your interview used in the study will be carefully

selected so as to provide no indications as to your identity. The only circumstances in

which confidentiality may be breached is if a disclosure is made regarding imminent

danger to someone, or abuse of a minor, elder, or dependent adult; then the researcher

may be required to make mandated reports of such disclosure under California state

law. Upon completion of the study all data will be securely stored for seven years and

then destroyed in compliance with California State law. 105

Potential Risk and Discomfort

Due to the nature of this study there is a risk for some level of emotional distress. If you

find that you have been distressed by your participation in this study, I can give you a

list of low fee psychotherapy providers in your area. In addition, you will be provided

with a national pet support hotline number that you can call at any time after completion

of your interview.

Concerns and Complaints

If you should have any concerns or complaints or questions about your rights as a

participant, you may contact my dissertation chair Dr. Elizabeth Bates-Freed via email:

[email protected] or you can call at xxx-xxx-xxxx.

Data

The data collected in this study will be published in a dissertation that will be publicly

available. Additionally, the data and audio recordings may be utilized for presentations

about findings, for future studies, or for educational purposes.

I, the undersigned, have read this consent form and understand the terms of study

participation described. My signature below acknowledges my agreement to participate

in this study. The principal researcher, Melissa Reilly, will also sign to guarantee the

conditions stated above.

______

Date Participant’s Name Printed Participants Signature

______

Date Melissa Reilly, Researcher 106

Appendix E

Demographic Information

Please fill in or check the applicable answer.

Gender: _____

Age: _____

Ethnicity: _____ African American

_____ Asian American/Pacific Islander

_____ Caucasian

_____ Hispanic

_____ Other: ______

Marital Status: _____ Single/Never Married

_____ Married

_____ Divorced

_____ Separated

_____ Widowed

_____ Other: ______

Highest Level of Education: _____ High School Diploma or Equivalent

_____ Some College

_____ Specialized Training/Vocational School

_____ 4-Year University

_____ Graduate Degree

107

Appendix F Interview Questionnaire

What type of pet did you have and what made you choose this particular pet?

What was the pet’s name and why did you choose this name?

How long did you have this pet?

Can you tell me a favorite memory about your pet?

How did your pet die?

If applicable: How did you come to the decision of euthanasia? Was it difficult and how did you feel before and after making this decision?

What was your experience of grief like before and after your loss?

Did you continue to experience grief symptoms (one week, one month, three months, six months, and one year) after your pet’s death?

Did you cremate or bury your pet?

How do you think these rituals helped your experience of grief?

What was your experience of social support throughout your grief process like?

Looking back at your experience, what do you think was or could have been the most helpful in helping you through the process of grief?