The loss of a beloved pet is a deeply personal experience that is accompanied by profound grief. Yet, in many workplaces, this form of loss is overlooked or dismissed, leaving employees to navigate their pain in silence, to show up at work as if nothing happened with an expectation to professionally perform while enduring the emotional, mental, and physical challenges that are present when processing grief from the loss of a pet.
The Parted Paw, a Toronto-based leader in pet loss bereavement support, is changing this narrative by advocating for implementing compassionate leave and policy around pet loss and grief for those who are grieving the loss of their pet.
Why Pet Loss Deserves Corporate Attention:
- Pets Are Family: Today, more than 97% of pet owners consider their pets to be family members. The emotional impact of losing a pet can be, and often is, as significant as losing a human loved one.
- Workplace Impact: Unaddressed grief can lead to decreased professional productivity, increased absenteeism, and lower morale. Companies that recognize pet loss as a legitimate form of bereavement report higher employee satisfaction and loyalty.
- Cultural Shift: As society increasingly acknowledges the importance of pets, progressive businesses are updating policies to support grieving employees. On the other hand, businesses who fail to understand the importance of compassionate leave after pet loss are starting to see a decline in professional happiness and loyalty in the workplace.
The Parted Paw’s Approach to Pet Loss in the Workplace
1. Recognize Disenfranchised Grief
Disenfranchised grief refers to losses that are not socially or professionally acknowledged and supported. The sad truth is that pet loss often falls into this category, leaving employees feeling isolated as well as unsupported. The Parted Paw actively educates organizations about the reality of disenfranchised grief and its impact on mental health and workplace dynamics.
“Disenfranchised Grief (DG) is the unrecognized pain of losing a pet that is often dismissed by society, workplaces and even loved ones. One of The Parted Paw’s core initiatives is to explore the deep emotional impact of pet loss, show why it deserves validation, and how to navigate grief with support, self-care, and workplace advocacy.”
2. Policy Recommendations for Businesses
The Parted Paw encourages companies to adopt policies that foster empathy and support such as:
- Pet Loss Bereavement Leave: Allowing employees time off to grieve and plan after the loss of a pet.
- Flexible Work Arrangements: Offering remote work or adjusted hours during periods of acute grief.
- Access to Support Services: Providing resources such as counselling, support groups or partnerships with pet loss specialists like The Parted Paw.
3. Training and Awareness
The Parted Paw offers training sessions for HR professionals and managers to recognize signs of pet grief and teaches how to respond appropriately. This includes:
- How to approach conversations about pet loss with sensitivity.
- Understanding the stages of pet grief and the unique needs of grieving employees.
- Creating a supportive work environment that normalizes discussions about pet loss.
4. Memorialization and Community Support
Beyond policy, The Parted Paw helps organizations create opportunities for employees to honour their pets such as:
- Memorial boards or digital spaces for memories.
- Annual remembrance events.
- Encouraging peer support networks within the workplace.
Building the Business Case for Pet Loss and Grief Support
Benefits include increased retention, higher morale, enhanced company reputation, and reduced absenteeism. When employees feel valued, they are less likely to leave supportive workplaces. Compassionate policies boost overall workplace satisfaction. Companies that prioritize employee well-being attract top talent, and support during grief can help minimize extended or unplanned absences.
Industry Trends:
While only a handful of states and companies currently offer formal pet loss bereavement leave, the trend is growing. Industry leaders like Google and Starbucks have explored pet-friendly benefits, and conferences on employee pet benefits are raising awareness nationwide.
The Parted Paw’s Broader Mission
Founded by Koryn Greenspan, a certified Pet Loss Bereavement Specialist, The Parted Paw is dedicated to raising awareness about pet loss, advocating for disenfranchised grief, and helping both individuals and organizations navigate this challenging experience together.
The Parted Paw’s services include:
- One-on-One counselling and group support sessions
- Educational workshops for businesses and communities
- Partnerships with veterinary clinics and end-of-life care providers
- Helping clients navigate anticipatory grief including planning for, during, and after pet passing
As the bond between people and their pets deepens, it is essential for businesses to recognize and respond to the reality of pet loss and the mental, emotional, and physical toll grief takes on employees’ personal well-being as well as their professional performance in the workplace.
The Parted Paw’s pioneering approach to corporate pet grief policy sets a compassionate standard that benefits both employees and organizations. By embracing these policies, companies not only support their staff through difficult times but also foster a more empathetic, resilient, and productive workplace.
For more information on implementing pet loss policies or to access bereavement support, visit The Parted Paw’s website or reach out directly to Koryn at koryn@thepartedpaw.com.
