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Resources for Those Grieving the Loss of a Pet


Pets are part of the family and the death of a pet is a distressing event. Through utilizing support systems, pet owners can find ways to help ease the anguish of losing man’s best friend.

Losing a pet can be a devastating loss for a pet owner. The feelings of grief and bereavement surrounded by losing a precious member of the family can be overwhelming. There is no quick fix because grieving is a process, but there are many services available to those who are grieving the death of a beloved pet. Meetings, books, and phone call centers are available to help you get through this difficult time.

Selected Reading
By relating to another’s pet loss experience, many owners are able to identify with coping with pet loss and learn ways to cope. Articles and books on grieving over the death of animals provide long-lasting comfort.

Articles
By Enid Traisman, MSW

Grief Support Center

Books
Cold Noses At The Pearly Gates: A Book of Hope for Those Who Have Lost Pets by Gary Kurz

When Your Pet Dies: A Guide to Mourning, Remembering and Healing by Alan D. Wolfelt, PH. D.

Grieving the Death of a Pet by Betty J. Carmack.

The Loss of a Pet: A New Revised Edition
by Wallace Sife

Coping With Sorrow on the Loss of Your Pet by Moira K. Anderson

The Rainbow Bridge: Pet Loss Is Heaven's Gain by Niki Behrikis Shanahan

Saying Goodbye to Your Angel Animals: Finding Comfort after Losing Your Pet by Allen Anderson, Linda Anderson

Coping with Sorrow on the Loss of Your Pet by Moira Anderson Allen

Animals in Spirit: Our Faithful Companions' Transition to the Afterlife by Penelope Smith

Celebrating the Memory of a Pet by Devon O'Day and Kim Mclean

Good-Bye My Friend: Grieving the Loss of a Pet by Mary and Herb Montgomery

Pet Loss & Human Bereavement by Kay and Herbert Nieburg

Pet Loss and Children: Establishing a Health Foundation by Cheri Barton Ross


Call Centers
For people who would rather reach out to another person and talk about their feelings, call centers are staffed by several veterinary medical schools around the country and provide immediate support and advice.

217-244-2273 (CARE) or 877-394-2273 (CARE) 

508-839-7966


Counseling and Support Groups
Sometimes being in a group of people who are experiencing similar circumstances helps grieving pet owners through the mourning process. There are several support groups located nationwide offering weekly meetings.
Bide-A-Wee Foundation


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