PJ Gallagher has helped Dogs Trust, Ireland’s largest dog welfare charity launch their poignant ‘Not Just a Dog’ campaign to highlight the devastating effect a dog’s death can have on their owners. The charity is appealing to employers to consider offering compassionate leave to employees should their beloved pet pass away.
Research carried out by Dogs Trust revealed over half of dog owners felt the grief they experienced after losing their dog was similar or worse to the loss of a family member, with a further 38% stating they were surprised by how deeply they were affected.
Almost three quarters of those surveyed admitted having more photos of their dogs on their phone than their partner, family or friends so, it comes as no surprise that over 58% said it took them a year or more to start to come to terms with their dog’s passing.
Psychologist, Neuroscientist and dog lover, Dr Sabina Brennan says, “When a dog passes on, no matter how prepared we are for it, how old the dog is or how long or how short a time they spent with you, the loss can be overwhelming. I think the most important aspect of coping with the loss is to allow yourself to grieve and accepting that what you’re feeling is normal. Surround yourself with people who understand and if you’re struggling, please seek professional advice.”
After discovering 66% of dog lovers worry about their dog’s passing, Dogs Trust is urging owners to visit their website DogsTrust.ie for advice on how to prepare for a dog’s passing, coping with grief, ideas to memorialize your dog and tips on how to broach the subject with children.
Speaking about the passing of his own dog, Morning Glory's PJ Gallagher said: “Is there a greater feeling in the world than coming home to a dog who is delighted to see you, even though you only popped out to the shops? It’s tough when that’s gone. I had Lylo, my Collie Cross who I adopted from Dogs Trust for 10 fantastic years. She was my best friend, and I was devastated when I had to say goodbye to her. We need to recognise how crushing it is for dog owners when their dog dies and it’s important that people feel they can talk about it, without being told to get over it, it’s just a dog.”
“Many people spend more time with their dogs than anyone else in their life and have a unique bond with them. As a dog welfare charity, we understand the impact the loss of a dog can have, so we offer our employees a day’s paid leave in the event of the death of their dog and we would love to see other employers offer the same,” says Becky Bristow, Executive Director of Dogs Trust Ireland.
To help spread their message and show that it’s ‘not just a dog’, Dogs Trust are asking people to share a photo of their dog using the hashtag #NotJustADog on social media.
To find out more about how you can support this campaign log onto www.DogsTrust.ie/
