Pet Loss and Grief
Loosing a family member is one of the most difficult things we experience. The deep connection we have with these animals that pass away is real and effects both humans and animals members of our families in profound ways.
Below are some of the resources we’ve found valuable while trying to understand and experience our own grief during our times of loss.
The University of Washington Veterinarians Medicine suggested reading
For Adults
Pet Loss: A thoughtful Guide for Adults and Children by H.A. Nieburg, 1982
The Loss of a pet by Wallace Sife, Ph.D 2006
For Children
Goodbye, Max by Holly Keller 1987
When a Pet Dies by Fred Rogers 1988
Oh, Where Has My Pet Gone? By Sally Sibbitt 1991
Most of these and similar books are available at your local library in both physical and digital formats. Private booksellers both local and online will likely have these titles of other resources.
Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement
https://www.aplb.org/
APLB has an extensive list of online resources in including
Group Pet Loss Grief support sessions via chat or video
Access to an index of certified Pet Loss Grief Therapists
Digital articles and books.
Access to their private Facebook group to share and learn with others
Pet Loss Support Helpline
Tufts University
Open from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM Pacific Time zone.
Monday through Thursday at 508-839-7966
They also allow for voicemails to be left so that a hotline operator can call back during the next support shift.
The Cornell University
Open Monday and Wednesday 3-6 p.m. Pacific at 607-218-7557
Cornell also have an excellent simple index of the grieving process and further resources at
https://www.vet.cornell.edu/impact/community-impact/pet-loss-resources-and-support
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