"Can" is the operative word there. I have had experiences similar to your own and for me, the death of my father was much more devastating. But I can imagine

"Can" is the operative word there. I have had experiences similar to your own and for me, the death of my father was much more devastating. But I can imagine less socially connected folks or folks with poor family relationships being utterly devastated by the loss of a pet that is providing unconditional acceptance and companionship.