Understanding the Physical Impact of Grief

The love we share with our pets runs deep. They become part of our daily routines, our happiest moments, and even our quietest struggles. They sit beside us when life feels heavy and celebrate ordinary days in ways only a loyal companion can.

So when that bond is suddenly broken through loss, the grief can feel overwhelming — emotionally and even physically.

Many people are surprised to discover that the heartbreak following the loss of a beloved pet can sometimes create real physical symptoms that closely resemble a heart attack.

The Very Real Physical Effects of Grief

A striking example of this phenomenon appeared in a 2017 article published in The New England Journal of Medicine, which shared the story of a Texas woman named Joanie Simpson.

After the loss of her 9-year-old Yorkshire Terrier, who had been suffering from heart failure, Simpson began experiencing symptoms that appeared to be a heart attack. She was rushed to the hospital, only to discover that her arteries were not blocked.

Instead, doctors determined that the overwhelming emotional stress of losing her beloved dog had triggered what is commonly known as “broken-heart syndrome.”

Simpson described herself as being “close to inconsolable,” a feeling many grieving pet owners deeply understand.

What Is Broken-Heart Syndrome?

Broken-heart syndrome, formally known as takotsubo cardiomyopathy, is a temporary condition in which extreme emotional stress affects the heart muscle.

Symptoms can include:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Irregular heartbeat
• Sudden fatigue
• Feelings similar to a heart attack

According to the American Heart Association, the condition is seen more often in post-menopausal women, though it can affect others as well.

Thankfully, Joanie Simpson fully recovered, but her story became an important reminder that grief is not “just emotional.” Deep sorrow can affect the body in very real ways.

Why Pet Loss Can Feel So Devastating

For many people, pets are woven into nearly every part of life.

They greet us every morning.
They wait for us at the door.
They comfort us through loneliness, illness, heartbreak, and stress.

Unlike many human relationships, the love of a pet is often steady, uncomplicated, and unconditional. That kind of bond leaves a profound imprint on the heart.

Joy Dias, director of client counseling and support services for the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, has noted that the emotional responses following pet loss can closely mirror those experienced after losing a human loved one. Feelings such as sadness, confusion, loneliness, guilt, and emotional exhaustion are all common responses.

The Unique Bond Between Humans and Dogs

Roxanne Hawn, columnist for AKC Family Dog and author of Heart Dog: Surviving the Loss of Your Canine Soul Mate, explains that dogs often become deeply intertwined with our emotional lives.

They witness our routines, habits, celebrations, and struggles with unwavering loyalty and companionship. In many homes, they are a daily source of comfort and emotional support.

Because of this, losing a dog can feel less like losing a pet and more like losing a constant piece of everyday life.

Grief That Deserves Compassion

Thankfully, the emotional impact of pet loss is becoming more recognized within the mental health community. Many counselors and grief professionals now acknowledge that mourning a beloved pet can be every bit as intense as grieving a human family member.

That recognition matters.

No one should feel embarrassed or ashamed for grieving deeply after the loss of a cherished companion animal.

You Are Not Overreacting — You Are Grieving

If the loss of a pet has affected you emotionally or physically, you are not alone.

Grief can bring exhaustion, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, loss of appetite, and even physical pain. During this time, it is important to give yourself grace and seek support from people who understand the depth of the bond you shared.

Whether through conversations, memorial keepsakes, photographs, or quiet remembrance, honoring your pet’s life can become an important part of healing.

The love they gave does not disappear when they leave this world. It stays with us — in routines remembered, favorite places, quiet moments, and the lasting imprint they leave on our hearts.