PET LOSS AND GRIEF SUPPORT RESOURCES
Losing a pet can be one of the most heart-wrenching experiences we face. Pets are more than just animals; they are beloved members of our families who offer unconditional love and companionship. Their absence can leave a profound void, triggering intense feelings of sadness, loneliness, and even guilt. This grief is natural and valid, as the bond shared with a pet is unique and deeply personal. The daily routines and shared moments we once cherished can become poignant reminders of our loss, making the grieving process even more challenging.
Seeking help to process this grief is crucial for healing. Support from friends, family, or pet loss support groups can provide comfort and understanding during this difficult time. Professional counselors can offer strategies to cope with the pain and navigate the complex emotions that accompany pet loss. Acknowledging your grief and allowing yourself to mourn is an essential part of the healing journey. Remember, it’s okay to feel devastated by the loss of a pet, and reaching out for help is a vital step towards finding peace and honoring the memory of your beloved companion.
Support Groups and Communities
In the Comfort of Home: This website has online resources for humans and animals, local counselors and in-person and/or virtual support groups. Local to the Capital District.
Website: https://inthecomfortofhome.com/grieving/
The Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement (APLB): APLB offers online support groups, chat rooms, articles, and resources to help individuals cope with the loss of a pet.
Website: https://aplb.org/
The Pet Loss Support Page: This website provides a comprehensive list of pet loss support resources, including online chat rooms, forums, and articles.
Website: https://www.pet-loss.net/
Rainbow Bridge: Rainbow Bridge offers a supportive online community where pet owners can share their stories, connect with others who are grieving, and find comfort in memorializing their beloved pets.
Website: https://www.rainbowsbridge.com/
Grief Healing: Grief Healing is an online resource center that offers articles, forums, and support for individuals coping with various types of grief, including pet loss. Website: https://www.griefhealing.com/
Pet Loss Matters: Pet Loss Matters provides online support forums, articles, and resources for pet owners navigating the grieving process.
Website: https://www.petlossmatters.com/
Pet Loss Support Chat: This online chat room offers real-time support and connection with others who are grieving the loss of a pet.
Website: https://www.petloss.com/chat.htm
Grief and Pet Loss Hotlines
ASPCA Pet Loss Hotline : 877-474-3310
Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine: 517-432-2696 Days and hours vary
Cornell University Pet Loss Hotline: 607-218-7457
Wednesday 12:00pm-2:00pm and Saturday/Sunday 7:00pm-9:00pm
Tufts University Pet Loss Hotline: 508-839-7966
Monday-Friday 6:00-9:00pm
voicemails returned daily and accepts collect calls outside Massachusetts
Companion Animal Related Emotions (CARE) Pet Loss Helpline : 217-552-5317
Grief Resources
The Grief Listening Line : 1-800-565-9731 (asacredpassing.org)
Refuge in Grief (refugeingrief.com)
Tender Hearts (Davidkesslertraining.com/tenderhearts)
Mental Health and Crisis Resources
Greater Grief Counseling https://www.glgrief.com/
New Perspectives Mental Health Counseling: Home – New Perspectives Counseling Practice PLLC
Find a local therapist near you: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988, online chat at https://988lifeline.org/chat/
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741, chat at www.crisistextline.org
Thank you to our friends at Upstate Veterinary Specialties for their assistance in compiling these resources.