Study Says 'Seeing the Ghost' of a Deceased Pet May Help People Grieve

A new study says that if you have a pet that has crossed the rainbow bridge, having paranormal encounters with their ghost may help you deal with your grief.

The study that received answers from 544 social media users looked at both physical experiences (like hearing your dog's nails on the floor or seeing their ghost) to interpreted experiences (like dreaming about your deceased dog.)

The study was conducted by Jennifer Golbeck, a computer science professor at the University of Maryland and it concluded that the vast majority of reported feelings (74.6%) were positive, bringing people comfort, reassurance, and a sense of protection.

Related: Pet Psychic Gives Key Sign That Animals Can See Ghosts

Golbeck also theorized that "These supernatural experiences may serve a different role for grieving dog guardians. Given that disenfranchised grief is common due to the lack of cultural support for people mourning their dogs, and grief over companion animals is often complicated by guilt, these supernatural experiences may serve as an important source of comfort and a way for the bereaved to engage with loss."

I think many of us who have lost a pet have felt their spirit with us, whether that was when we were taking a walk in nature or thinking we hear a meow coming from somewhere in our house. Losing a pet is amazingly heartbreaking and it makes sense that we would feel them with us at times, because they are such a huge part of our lives and we are used to their physical presences, plus the huge impact they have made on us emotionally.

I think seeing or feeling their presence is just one way that pet parents go through the grieving process.

Meaningful Ways to Honor Your Beloved Pets Passing

Losing a pet is one of the most heartbreaking experiences a pet owner can ever have, and there are many ways you can commemorate the life your precious pup or cat lived and all the joy and love they brought you.

Certain parks have a rainbow bridge where dog owners can place the collar or tags of a dog that has passed. This is a lovely way you can remember your pup and pay homage to all the other beloved animals who have passed.

You can plant a memorial garden in your yard and place a stone or path marker with your pup or cat's name on it. This is a touching way to have small children get involved in saying goodbye to a pet.

You can create a memory book filled with beautiful photos of your dog or cat.

You can light a candle in your dog or cat's honor on their birthday, holidays, or whenever it brings you comfort.

You can adopt or foster a dog or cat in honor or your pet, or make a donation in their name to your local animal shelter or Humane Society.

Our hearts go out to everyone who is mourning the loss of their precious pet.

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