Beyond the taboo: a thanatosociological investigation of companion animal loss based on an interview study with small animal veterinarians.

ABSTRACT: Thanatosociology examines the social dimensions of death, focusing on how societies perceive and navigate the realities of mortality. A key argument in this field posits that, in certain contemporary Western societies, direct experiences with dying and death are increasingly rare, leading to the emergence of death as a taboo topic. Given the emotional bond between pet owners and their pets, it becomes essential to examine the implications of companion animal loss within this framework. As pets often die at home, this topic warrants investigation to better understand how these experiences can influence societal perceptions of mortality. This study aims to highlight this often-overlooked perspective, emphasizing the significance of companion animal loss in shaping collective attitudes toward

SUBMITTER: Springer S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12902952 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature