When Pet Loss Becomes Big Business
With the growing recognition and validation of pet bereavement as a significant mental health concern, we have observed notable changes in specific pet-related markets, as evidenced by recent reports.
For instance, the global pet loss insurance market, estimated at US$1.3 billion in 2025, is expected to reach US$4 billion between 2026 and 2033, according to a report by Verified Market Reports.
Similarly, the global market for apps offering digital pet bereavement support is estimated to have generated a revenue of US$122.5 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a rate of up to 12.8% by 2033, reaching a total of US$362.8 million, according to a report from Growth Market Report.
But what factors impact such a specific market, and what does this say about our relationship with companion animals?
These insurance policies cover various aspects. For example, while some cover only financial indemnity for the death of a pet, others include costs related to cremation and memorials, and some even offer symbolic gestures, such as planting a tree in memory of the pet or making donations to a particular cause. This variety of coverages shows that it is not only a matter of logistics but also of grief rituals.
Although these trends primarily lead us to reflect on financial aspects, they also help us to deepen our understanding of the evolving role of companion animals in society and the validation of pet loss grief as a legitimate experience. As described in these reports, the humanization of © Psychology Today
