From Companionship to Grief: Lived Experiences of Adolescent Dog Owners at De La Salle University

Pets have long been part of people’s lives, but today, they are often viewed as family, especially by adolescents who rely on them for comfort, support, and companionship. For many, the bond with a pet runs deep, making their loss emotionally devastating. However, the emotional and psychological impact of this grief, particularly among adolescents, remains largely overlooked in academic research despite growing recognition of the human-animal bond. This phenomenological study explores the lived experiences of seven adolescent dog owners (ages 18–23) from De La Salle University Manila, focusing on understanding how they form attachments to pets, navigate caregiving responsibilities, and cope with pet loss. Thematic analysis was employed to systematically explore and interpret the participants’ narratives. The discussion of results was divided into four. Firstly, Pets as Family highlights how pets are viewed as emotional companions and family members, often personified and deeply integrated into daily life. Second, Managing Pet Responsibilities captures the challenges of caregiving and the personal growth that can result from these experiences. Third, Experiencing Pet Loss explores the intense grief, emotional responses, and reflective processes accompanying pet loss. Finally, Coping After Loss examines the role of social support, memory-keeping, and shifting perspectives in navigating grief. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the adolescent-pet relationship, underscoring the need to recognize pet loss as a valid and impactful experience. Findings emphasize the importance of integrating grief education, emotional support systems, and pet-related counseling into adolescent mental health and educational frameworks.