Employers should consider compassionate leave for bereaved pet owners, says Dogs Trust

Employers should consider offering compassionate leave to employees on the death of their pet according to Dogs Trust, Ireland’s largest dog welfare organisation. 

"We have launched our poignant ‘Not Just a Dog’ campaign to highlight the devastating effect a dog’s death can have on their owners and we are appealing to employers to consider offering compassionate leave to employees should their beloved pet pass away," Dogs Trust says of its campaign. 

"Research we carried out revealed over half of dog owners felt the grief they experienced after losing their dog was similar or worse to the loss of a family member, with a further 38% stating they were surprised by how deeply they were affected," the trust says.

A recent survey of almost 2,800 dog owners showed that three quarters of participants admitted having more photos of their dogs on their phone than their partner, family or friends.

"It comes as no surprise that over 58% said it took them a year or more to start to come to terms with their dog’s passing," Dogs Trust Ireland said.

Psychologist, Neuroscientist and dog lover, Dr Sabina Brennan explained: “When a dog passes on, no matter how prepared we are for it, how old the dog is or how long or how short a time they spent with you, the loss can be overwhelming. I think the most important aspect of coping with the loss is to allow yourself to grieve and accepting that what you’re feeling is normal. Surround yourself with people who understand and if you’re struggling, please seek professional advice.”

Speaking about the passing of his own dog, Comedian and Broadcaster, PJ Gallagher said: “Is there a greater feeling in the world than coming home to a dog who is delighted to see you, even though you only popped out to the shops? It’s tough when that’s gone. I had Lylo, my Collie Cross who I adopted from Dogs Trust for 10 fantastic years. She was my best friend, and I was devastated when I had to say goodbye to her. We need to recognise how crushing it is for dog owners when their dog dies and it’s important that people feel they can talk about it, without being told to get over it, it’s just a dog.”

Becky Bristow, Executive Director of Dogs Trust Ireland continued: “Many people spend more time with their dogs than anyone else in their life and have a unique bond with them. As a dog welfare charity, we understand the impact the loss of a dog can have, so we offer our employees a day’s paid leave in the event of the death of their dog, and we would love to see other employers offering the same.”

You can learn more on dealing with pet grief here.