Grief Resources
Grief after the loss of a pet can be as profound and deeply felt as with the loss of a human family member, which for some may be jarring or lead to feelings of guilt.
Know that the process of grieving is different for each individual and each pet, and there is no “should” in grief. Our pets are in our lives every day, and grief over their loss can last for months to years.
Pet Loss Support Services
The Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement
A nonprofit organization that offers online support chatrooms and additional grief resources.
Tufts University Pet Loss Support Hotline
Hotline: 508-839-7966
Website through the veterinary school at Tuft’s that offers additional internet support group links, including a hotline where volunteers return calls after receiving a message requesting support.
Cornell University Pet Loss Support
Hotline: 607-253-3932
Website through the veterinary school at Cornell with an article discussing grief, including a hotline where volunteers return calls after receiving a message requesting support.
Phone: 1-800-621-8504 (24/7 crisis intervention services)
Provides resources to locate therapists, psychiatrists, treatment centers and support groups.
Explaining pet loss to children
Article from the Argus institute at the veterinary school at Colorado State
Helping Children with Pet Loss
Recommended books
When a Pet Dies by Fred Rogers
The Tenth Good Thing About Barney by Judith Viorst
Dog Heaven by Cynthia Rylant
Cat Heaven by Cynthia Rylant
I’ll Always Love You by Hans Wilhelm
Healing Your Grieving Heart for Kids by Alan Wolfeldt
Saying Goodbye to Lulu by Corinne Demas
Goodbye Mousie by Robbie Harris
The Fall of Freddie the Leaf by Leo Buscaglia