The Loss of a Service Dog Through Death: Experiences of Partners

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to explore how service dog partners experience the death of their service dog. Twenty-five partners who had lost a service dog self-selected from those who participated in a larger quantitative study. The quantitative study consisted of an online, anonymous survey targeting service dog handlers who had lost a dog within the last five years. Directed content analysis was used to identify prevalent themes. Results demonstrate that while the death of their service dog was a central life event, their grief was often disenfranchised. Many struggled with both the need to quickly acquire another service dog and the subsequent impact this had on their ability to grieve. Given the unique relationship between service dog and handler, it is important that counselors, service dog organizations and veterinarians are aware of the challenges associated with both loss and replacement and offer appropriate support to their clients.