Woman keeps dog's belongings untouched

Estelle Lenfant from Béziers has kept the possessions of her late dog, whom she calls "loulou," in their original place, including the carpet next to the armchair and a life-sized portrait in the living room. She continues to grieve the loss, describing her mourning as similar to that for a family member.

Dog helped her through personal loss

Her dog had helped her recover after the death of her mother, and its death left her "devastated, lost like an orphan again." She notes that some people fail to understand the depth of such grief, with comments like "it was just an animal" or "you can get another one" often being directed at those who have lost a pet.

Survey highlights emotional bond with pets

A survey conducted in August 2026 by Toluna-Harris Interactive for Hill’s, involving 1,031 French dog or cat owners, found that 62% considered their animal a family member and 20% considered it their own child. This data reflects the growing recognition of pets as integral parts of family life.

Pet crematorium planned in Béziers

In Béziers, a pet crematorium project is planned for June 2027 in the Ouest II business zone, featuring mourning rooms and a memorial garden. The initiative aims to provide a space for owners to grieve and say farewell to their pets.

Sociologist studies animal funeral rites

Doctor of sociology Nadia Veyrié from the University of Montpellier, who studies funeral rites around animals, notes that some people openly express their grief, while others are more reserved. The choice of whom to confide in depends on how relatives or colleagues perceive the role of an animal in a person's life.