The facts are startling – it hurts more when a dog dies than a relative, according to a new survey of North West pet owners.

And more people that ever are contacting the Blue Cross's pet support service, according to latest figures.

Research by specialist insurance supplier for animal related trades, Cliverton, found that 64 per cent of owners surveyed said the emotional upset at the loss was greater than that experienced when a family member dies.

And so deep is the trauma that almost half (45 per cent) said it would deter them from buying a dog in the future.

Regular checks are important says Vets4Pet's Carl May. (Photo: Vets4Pets)

The number of people getting in touch with the Blue Cross's pet support service has almost trebled, from 6,240 in 2013 to 17,367 in 2022, with figures continuing to rise.

One pet owner said the death of her dog was more distressing that that of her dad as her dog was with her every day whereas her father wasn't.

"Unlike humans, dogs never let you down," said Lynne Fisher, associate director at Cliverton. "Through good times and bad times, they are there by your side.

"The bond between dogs and owners is extremely strong – 'companionship' was cited as the main reason for getting a dog – so the depth of feeling experienced when they die is totally understandable.

"However depressed you might be feeling, knowing that you have to feed and walk the dog gives you a reason to get out of bed in the morning. This is something that Ricky Gervais captured perfectly, in his sitcom After Life."

Carl May, practice owner of Vets4Pets in Alsager, has specialist training in counselling and supporting pet owners following the death of their pet.

It's a service the Lawton Road practice offers pet owners. Carl knows first-hand how tough it is losing a pet, having lost his beloved dog, Vinny to kidney failure. 

Carl May and some of the team at Vets4Pets in Alsager. (Photo: Vets4Pets)

"We always advise early detection and ensuring your pet has regular check-ups and you are proactive about their health," said Carl.

"We can offer help and treatment before things get worse. Having blood tests helps give us a picture of what's going on.

"Grief affects people in different ways and it is a service we offer. No two circumstances are ever the same.

"It could be about giving someone time to speak in a safe place with a brew. It's often a chance to verbalise their feelings about the loss and the timing.

"Animals form a huge part of our daily lives and routines so when they are no longer there, it's a huge loss."  

More details about Vets4Pets in Alsager is available from their Facebook page here , by phoning 01270 871810 or their website here

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