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<p>This exploratory and qualitative study investigated grief over the loss of a pet through an online group intervention with pet owners, conducted in weekly two-hour sessions focused on sharing experiences and reflections on loss. The phenomenological group provided a space for listening and mutual support, allowing participants to express their experiences spontaneously. Participants were individuals aged 18 and older who had experienced the loss of a pet, with no restrictions on the animal’s age or the time since the loss. A phenomenological approach was used to explore grief experiences, which were grouped into three analytical categories: (1) Spirituality, religiosity, and existential questioning; (2) The oneiric as a space of reunion and anguish; (3) Existential continuity and symbolic presence. The results reveal that spiritual practices can provide both comfort and conflict, while dreams play a crucial role in the grieving process. The loss also prompts deep reflection on finitude and authenticity of existence. Additionally, pet owners often seek to maintain the presence of the deceased animal through symbolic objects and rituals. These findings shed light on the complexity of emotions associated with pet loss and underscore the importance of psychological support that genuinely listens to pet owners during their grieving process.</p>

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Grief, Spirituality and Symbolism: Understanding Experiences of Continuity in the Loss of Pets

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2025年4月9日

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  • Amanda Fernandes Rodrigues Alves,
  • Fabio Scorsolini-Comin

摘要

This exploratory and qualitative study investigated grief over the loss of a pet through an online group intervention with pet owners, conducted in weekly two-hour sessions focused on sharing experiences and reflections on loss. The phenomenological group provided a space for listening and mutual support, allowing participants to express their experiences spontaneously. Participants were individuals aged 18 and older who had experienced the loss of a pet, with no restrictions on the animal’s age or the time since the loss. A phenomenological approach was used to explore grief experiences, which were grouped into three analytical categories: (1) Spirituality, religiosity, and existential questioning; (2) The oneiric as a space of reunion and anguish; (3) Existential continuity and symbolic presence. The results reveal that spiritual practices can provide both comfort and conflict, while dreams play a crucial role in the grieving process. The loss also prompts deep reflection on finitude and authenticity of existence. Additionally, pet owners often seek to maintain the presence of the deceased animal through symbolic objects and rituals. These findings shed light on the complexity of emotions associated with pet loss and underscore the importance of psychological support that genuinely listens to pet owners during their grieving process.