Pet mourning gains space in All Souls tributes

How farewell rituals and spaces help families cope more healthily with the loss of their pets

THE Day of the DeadTraditionally focused on the memory of loved ones, it is starting to spark new reflections among families living with pets. The expansion of the bond between humans and pets, now recognized as a legitimate part of the family structure, has motivated a more sensitive look at animal mourning and the role of farewell rituals in this process, also known as animal mourning.

The discussion about pet pain is growing

According to the psychologist Giuliana Satospecialist in mourning for pets, there is not yet a structured movement of tributes aimed at pets on the occasion of the holidays of the deceased in Italy Brazil. However, debate on the topic is increasingly necessary. “Thinking of All Souls beyond the human is a way to validate the bond and give families a collective space for recognition. It is a gesture of love but also of reparation, because mourning for pets is still not very legitimized in society”he states.

The specialist then explains that the strengthening of this bond accompanies social transformations such as smaller families, more solitary routines and the search for genuine affection. “Today we talk about multispecies families. Animals participate in routines, influence decisions and shape habits. If we recognize this role in life, it makes sense to create symbolic spaces to also recognize their departure”he adds.

According to a survey by Pet Brasil InstituteThe Brazilian pet market recorded revenues of approximately R$67.4 billion in 2023, with double-digit annual growth, reflecting the consolidation of pets as a central part of family life. Other studies indicate that over 60% of owners consider their pets as family members, a perception that also translates into the way in which mourning and farewells are experienced.

New farewell spaces

In some cities of the country, such as Campinas (SP), Poços de Caldas (MG) e Apucarana (PR), there are already cemeteries that allow joint burial with guardians, as well as places and crematoria exclusively for animals. The growth in demand for pet funeral services reinforces this movement: in regions like Ceará, for example, the demand for cremations has tripled in recent years.

For Juliana this practice has great symbolic meaning. “When a family chooses to bury their pet next to them, they say: ‘we belong to the same place, in life and also in memory’. This continues the bond and helps in the process of processing the loss,” he says.

There is still a lack of recognition of domestic pain. According to Juliana, this contributes to “unauthorized mourning”, when those who do not understand the depth of the bond minimize the pain. “Phrases like ‘it was just a dog’ or ‘buy another one’ invalidate the pain and push the mourner into silence. Rites, vigils and ceremonies help make the farewell concrete, allowing love to become memory”explains.

The psychologist emphasizes that adequate emotional support is essential in this process. Psychological support helps to legitimize suffering and give new meaning to the loss in a healthy way. “When pain is welcomed, the bond remains in the form of memory and gratitude. Pain stops being just an absence and becomes an emotional continuity”he concludes.

*Text from Cris Landi, from Lilás Comunicação

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.