Do you think the loss of a pet is as traumatic for some as the loss of a child or loved one?

I do think the loss of a pet is as traumatic for some as the loss of a child/loved one. After reading a few articles online about grieving and loss, it seems as though the process of dealing with loss--pet or human--is very similar. I would imagine the loss of a pet to be particularly overwhelming for someone who does not have children/close relationships with others since they have probably substituted those human relationships with the relationship(s) they have with their pet(s).

As human beings, I believe we have the innate desire to take care of other living things (and to also be taken care of). Consequently, we become attached to/dependent on those relationships, whether they are with humans, pets, plants, or for some, inanimate objects like cars (I've seen a grown man cry over selling his car because "he went through so much with that car"). I think it's important not to judge how the loss affects someone because everyone puts importance on different relationships and grieves in their own way.

I have experienced the loss of a pet, as well as the loss of a loved one and though I grieved for both, the loss of the loved one has had a deeper impact. I believe the reason for this is because when you have a pet you are aware of its life expectancy--in the best circumstances, you will probably have the pet up to 15-20 years max. But, with a loved one, you expect to have them around longer--for the majority of your life. Regardless, it is important to allow yourself/others to grieve and to seek assistance if necessary.

The sources sited below were very helpful in explaining the phases of grieving and types of loss.

I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.