Why Pet Loss Grief Deserves Attention
The bond between humans and their pets runs deep—often deeper than society acknowledges. So when a beloved dog, cat, or other animal companion dies, the grief can be overwhelming and long-lasting. Yet many who experience this loss find themselves feeling isolated or unsupported, as if their pain isn’t “real” enough.
I recently met Angela Corley, a therapist specializing in pet loss to discuss the emotional journey of pet loss, the importance of grief counseling, and how memorializing your pet can aid in healing. Whether you’re preparing for goodbye, mourning a recent loss, or supporting someone through theirs, this guide offers both insight and actionable support.
The Profound Impact of Pet Loss
The Human-Animal Bond
The connection between humans and their pets is profound. Pets offer unconditional love, companionship, and a sense of purpose. Their presence becomes an integral part of our daily lives, routines, and emotional well-being.
When a pet passes away, the grief experienced can be as intense as losing a human loved one. This deep sorrow is a testament to the significant role pets play in our lives.
“It’s not just mourning an animal. It’s mourning a best friend, a source of comfort, and a constant in your daily life.” – Angela Corley, LMSW, MBA
Grieving the Loss of Routine and Identity
The grief from pet loss isn’t just about missing your animal—it can disrupt your whole identity. Many pet parents schedule their day around feeding, walking, and cuddling with their companions. Their absence can leave a devastating void.
Disenfranchised Grief: The Unacknowledged Sorrow
Disenfranchised grief refers to the mourning that isn’t socially recognized or validated. Pet loss often falls into this category, leading individuals to feel isolated or misunderstood in their sorrow.
Recognizing and validating this grief is crucial. Acknowledging the pain allows for a healthier grieving process and prevents prolonged emotional distress.
Introducing Angela Corley, LMSW, MBA: Compassionate Support for Pet Loss
Angela Corley is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) under the supervision of Mikayla Jacob, LCSW-S. She holds an MBA and specializes in supporting individuals experiencing pet loss.
Her credentials include:
- Extensive experience in animal welfare and veterinary social work
- Leading the Pet Loss Support Group at Sentient Path PLLC
- Supporting both pet parents and veterinary professionals
Angela’s compassionate approach honors the complexity of pet grief and guides clients through healing with personalized care. Her services are offered virtually throughout Texas or in-person at offices in Flower Mound, TX and Dallas, TX.
How Grief Counseling Can Help After Pet Loss
Pet loss grief often follows stages similar to other kinds of bereavement:
- Denial – “This can’t be happening.”
- Anger – At the illness, the vet, or even yourself.
- Bargaining – “If only I had…”
- Depression – Sadness, loneliness, isolation.
- Acceptance – Integrating the loss into your life.
While not everyone experiences these stages linearly, grief counseling helps you move through them in a way that’s supportive, validating, and personalized.
Benefits of Working With a Pet Grief Therapist
- Safe space to talk through memories and regrets
- Tools for coping, including mindfulness and journaling
- Help managing guilt around euthanasia or “not doing enough”
- Guidance in memorializing your pet in a meaningful way
Angela’s training in Veterinary Social Work makes her uniquely qualified to address the nuanced grief of pet parents. Many people cycle through these stages multiple times, and the duration of each stage varies from person to person.
Veterinary Social Work (VSW) is an emerging field that supports both the emotional needs of pet owners and the mental health of veterinary staff. According to the International Association of Veterinary Social Work, it includes:
- Pet grief and loss counseling
- Support for compassion fatigue and burnout
- Animal-assisted therapy
- Recognizing the link between human and animal violence
Veterinary professionals experience alarmingly high rates of stress and even suicide (Bartram & Baldwin, 2010; Nett et al., 2015). Social workers like Angela Corley help bridge that gap—offering mental health care tailored to the animal care environment.
Group Therapy vs. Individual Pet Grief Counseling
Individual Therapy
- One-on-one support
- Confidential space to unpack complex grief
- Personalized coping strategies
- Flexible scheduling (in-person or virtual)
Group Therapy
- Feel less alone by connecting with others
- Share stories, tears, and healing rituals
- Learn how others are memorializing and processing their grief
- Offered virtually across Texas or in-person at offices in Flower Mound, TX and Dallas, TX
Angela leads both formats with compassion and expertise. To learn more about Angela’s services or to schedule a consultation, visit Sentient Path PLLC.
Why Pet Memorial Portraits Bring Healing
At Haute Dog Pet Photography, we believe every dog deserves to be remembered in their prime.
Offering end-of-life pet portrait sessions allows grieving pet parents to:
- Preserve lasting, joyful memories
- Celebrate your pet’s unique spirit
- Capture meaningful moments before saying goodbye
“Grief is love with nowhere to go. Pet portraits give that love a place to live.” – Angela Corley, LMSW
Book your memorial session today at our 7-acre fenced studio in Dallas, Texas. We offer beautiful props, gentle guidance, and a space where your bond can be honored in timeless art.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does pet grief last?
Grief doesn’t follow a schedule. For some, the acute pain lasts weeks; for others, it lingers for months or even years. Counseling can help navigate that timeline with self-compassion.
Is it normal to grieve more for my pet than a person?
Yes. Pet grief can feel more intense than losing a human loved one because of the daily companionship, unconditional love, and absence of complicated dynamics.
Can I join the Pet Loss Support Group if I live outside Flower Mound?
Absolutely. The virtual group is open to anyone in Texas and is a great option if you need flexibility or prefer privacy.
Does insurance cover pet grief counseling?
Angela Corley currently accepts Aetna. If you’re uninsured or using a different provider, cash pay options are also available.
Can I bring my pet for a final photo session?
Yes. Haute Dog Pet Photography offers specialized sessions for senior or terminally ill pets. You’ll have exclusive access to our property, props, and assistance to ensure your session is peaceful and personal.
Take the Next Step:
Losing a pet is a heartbreak that deserves to be acknowledged and supported—not minimized. Whether you’re mourning a recent loss or preparing to say goodbye, grief counseling and pet memorial portraits can help you process your emotions and honor your companion with love.
🐾 Book a Pet Portrait Session
💬 Schedule a Free Consultation with Angela
Because healing begins with remembering—and remembering starts with honoring the love you shared.
