Through a recent surge of interest and research, society has begun to discover and recognize the meaning and significance of the human-companion animal bond. Knowledge gained concerning the intense and involved relationships between owner and pet has placed new significance upon the role of the veterinarian in maintaining and improving human mental, physical, emotional, and social health and well-being. The purpose of this manuscript is to review those aspects of "veterinarian-client" relations that emphasize specifically those situations encountered by the veterinarian in dealings with owners distressed over their pet's medical condition or death. The nature of the veterinarian's contribution to human health will be explored by briefly examining the dynamic relationship between veterinarian, pet and pet owner. Case studies will be presented to exemplify and clarify problem situations, and examples of intervention efforts on the part of the veterinarian will be discussed.