Abstract
It is estimated that approximately 40% of UK households include an animal companion, suggesting animal companions form a part of life for many people in the UK. Within psychological research there is recognition of the meaningful and enduring emotional bonds that can exist between human and animal. Existing research suggests bereaved animal companion owners can experience grief for their animal companion loss and in some circumstances contexts of loss that can impede well- being. Specialised services such as face-to-face ‘Pet Bereavement Counselling’ (PBC) have been established in private practice to support bereaved owners. However, to date no research has been conducted on PBC. This study therefore aimed to contribute to the existing knowledge base on animal companion loss and build a preliminary research base on the potential salience of PBC. The research explored what drew PBC therapists to work in PBC, and their experiences of working with bereaved owners who have experienced animal companion loss. Six participants providing PBC in their private practice were recruited and took part in semi-structured interviews. Data was analysed using inductive Thematic Analysis. The research findings highlighted both personal and professional experiences that may have drawn participants towards working in PBC, as well as the diverse ways in which animal companion loss can impact on bereaved owners. Findings highlighted the attributes and delivery of PBC centres on attending to individual needs within an open framework that keeps the animal companion relationship and processing the loss as its focus. Points of convergence and divergence of the research findings with existing literature on animal companion relationships and loss are discussed. Importantly, the findings have theoretical implications for how animal companion loss is conceptualised, as well as practical implications for Counselling Psychology and allied fields. In light of the preliminary research base on PBC this study provides, recommendations are made for future research.