Abstract
Abstract Companion animals contribute to family systems’ relational life and dynamics, providing emotional support and companionship. Little prior research discusses psychological processes informing decisions on companion animals when families emigrate, or the emotional ramifications of such decisions. The article considers decisions around companion animals’ fate during the emigration process as a dimension of the decision to leave. It has several psychological repercussions for family members. Data from a qualitative research project on South African experiences of emigration and its impact on family life show that decisions around companion animals’ fate are often experienced as highly emotional by those considering emigration. Despite onerous financial and practical considerations, some emigrating families decide to take their companion animals with them. They see them as creating a sense of “home” and helping with adjustment in the destination country, especially for young children, where companion animals can provide stability in the disruptive process of emigration.
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