Readers reveal the universal heartbreak of losing a pet

​This week, we published a five-day series on the world of modern pet ownership. One of those stories struck a nerve with readers, sparking a Facebook thread that left us speechless.

by Gillian McNally

​Sometimes, social media really is a wonderful place

In the past week, The Daily Telegraph lifted the lid on Australia’s $12 billion pet industry, taking an in-depth look at everything owners need to know to survive the complex world of modern pet ownership.

During the five-day series, readers shared incredible stories about their own pets, revealing a depth of compassion in the comments section of Facebook that’s rarely seen.

But there was one story struck a nerve more than any other. An interview with pet loss counsellors Karen Jaques and Dr Michael O’Donoghue about coping with the death of a pet sparked a Facebook thread that moved us to tears.

“My gorgeous Chevy dog. 12 1/2 years old. RIP darling boy xxx”. Shared by Heather Bolton/Facebook

“My beautiful baby boy Pepper Tyszyk went to the rainbow bridge 23/5/19 aged 15, he loved his trips to Bunnings. We miss him so much.” Shared by Lisa O'Meara/Facebook

Hundreds of readers took to the comments section to share images of the pets they had loved and lost, leaving emotional tributes to the companion animals that changed their lives.

Not only was it a chance to connect with others who had been through the same experience, but the reaction showed how deeply we all feel the loss of a beloved animal, even if it’s not widely acknowledged by society.

“My best buddy Chubbs. Died of a congenital heart. Broke my heart too when he was gone. I’ve lost a few pets over the years. It’s like losing a family member. At the least a good friend. Just like losing a friend or family member, you can’t “just get over it.” Shared by Clinton Lloyd/Facebook

Original article can be found here.