Pastoral concern in relation to the psychological stress caused by the death of an animal companion

Abstract

The place that animals occupy in relation to humans is considered, noting the close relationship and emotional attachment which exists between humans and their pet/animal companions. The psychological stress, bereavement, and grief experienced upon the death of an animal companion with whom an emotional attachment had taken place are explored. Pastoral implications in relation to the death are considered, and suggestions are made in relation to the role of religious leaders, pastoral counsellors, and other caregivers at that time.

Notes

Notes

[1] Refers to “non-human animals,” unless otherwise specified.

[2] The terms “pet” and “animal companion” are used synonymously and interchangeably.

[3] It is acknowledged that children and adults are not always kind to animals and that they are often cruel to them in various ways, including hunting them to their extinction.

[4] Such movies include Felix (the cat), Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Tom and Jerry, Tarzan, Jungle Book, The Fly, Spiderman, Wolf Man, Bat Man, Cat Woman, Skippy (the kangaroo), Dumbo (the elephant), Flipper (the dolphin), Moby Dick (the whale), Lassie (the dog), Free Willy (the whale), Black Beauty (the horse), Finding Nemo (the clown fish), Jaws (the shark) & The Lion King.

[5] “The animal's possessions—collars, favorite toys, food dishes, blankets—are often kept as mementos” (Cowles, 1985).

[6] Many acknowledge the Christian Saint, St. Francis of Assisi (1182–1226), as the “patron saint of animals and the environment.” He is said to have talked to the animals and preached to them. His Feast Day is October 4 and animal blessing services take place in many parts of the world around that time.

[7] Apart from acknowledging October 4 as the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi.

[8] Including police, reptile park rangers, staff from Guide Dogs for the Blind, vets, animal breeders, pet shop owners, etc.

[9] That is, to consider whether a “Genesis Theology” leads to an overly anthropomorphic position which diminishes rather than elevates the place of non-human animals. In the light of Darwinian science, perhaps some rethinking is required in this area.