Workers take time off work to grieve for pets

51 per cent of pet owners take time off work to grieve when their pet dies, according to a survey by The Blue Cross pet charity.

The data was taken from the pet memorial pages of The Blue Cross website, where those that are suffering from the loss of a pet through death or separation can post pictures, poems and memories to commemorate their companion.

The research also revealed that most bereaved owners found that colleagues, friends and family were very sympathetic and supportive at what can be a very difficult time.  Surprisingly, people with a support network and either married or in a relationship, were more likely to use the memorial as an outlet for their grief.

Margot Clarke, coordinator of the charity’s Pet Bereavement Support Service (PBSS), said: “This result shows just how deeply losing a pet affects people, whether through death or separation. They are effectively losing one of their family. Anyone that is suffering and would like to talk to someone who really understands can call one of our fully trained befrienders or send an email.”

The Pet Bereavement Support Service (PBSS) is run in conjunction with The Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS) and is dedicated to offering support and understanding to bereaved pet owners. Through a national network of trained volunteer telephone and email befrienders the PBSS currently receives around 2000 telephone calls and hundreds of emails a year from owners whose pet has died or been separated from them for a variety of reasons.

To find out more go to www.bluecross.org.uk. To talk to a befriender call 0800 096 6606 or email pbssmail@bluecross.org.uk.

Media contact: Sam Cordwell
Direct line: 0207 932 4063
Mobile: 07860 519716

Notes to editors
The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees.