Düsseldorf. The loss of a loved one hits many pet owners. The question of how long you should wait before choosing a new animal concerns many affected people. A survey by Agria Tierversicherung shows that seven out of ten dog and cat owners take up to six months or longer to process grief before bringing a new animal into the house.*
“Many animal owners feel the loss of a pet as intensely as the loss of a loved one,” says Peter Bornschein, Country Manager of Agria Tierversicherung Germany. “The decision as to when a new animal should move in is very individual.”
Younger waiting longer
Interestingly, the survey shows significant differences between age groups: While younger pet owners between the ages of 18 and 39 are waiting more often up to six months or longer, older pet owners often choose a new pet faster.
Some consciously do without a new animal
18 percent of the dog owners state that they consciously decide against a new animal after the loss. The most common reasons: lack of time, the high care effort or the feeling of being too old for a new animal.
Individual grief
“The results of our study show that every animal owner deals differently with grief. Some find consolation in memory of the deceased animal, while others will soon be looking for the proximity of a new animal companion. It is important that everyone will find the right time and make the decision consciously, ”says Bornschein.
The loss of a pet leaves a gap that can only be filled slowly. Whether and when a new animal comes into life remains a personal decision – but one thing is certain: love for animals remains.
*Source: Market research 06-12-2023