Pet Loss Resources
Perhaps the biggest hurdle for pet owners suffering with grief after the loss of a pet is reaching out for help. Many owners are not even aware that such resources exist. The grief of a loss is compounded when you don’t have a support system that recognizes just how intense the grieving process can be after the loss of a beloved pet, but help and understanding is out there.
Here are some of my recommended resources for bereaved pet owners:
Pet Loss Resources to Read
The Loss of a Pet, by Wallace Sife. There are plenty of books about losing a pet on the market, but what makes this book stand out is how practical and pragmatic it is as a resource for both pet owners and pet professionals. While being sympathetic and demonstrating deep compassion for bereaved owners, Dr. Sife’s focus in this book is to help you understand the grieving process particularly as it pertains to pets and gain a better knowledge of why you are feeling the way you are.
Pet Loss Resources to Type
Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement – This site has an extensive catalogue of references for owners going through the bereavement process, but what really makes it stand out are the online chat rooms. Six days a week, chats staffed by trained pet loss counselors can give you a person to talk to without having to leave your living room. There is even a separate chat for anticipatory bereavement, for owners whose pet has not passed but is experiencing terminal illness.
Pet Loss Help – Another good source of resources for bereaved pet owners.
Jessica Vogelsang, DVM is an author, veterinarian, and owner of the award winning pet-centric website pawcurious.com. Dr. Vogelsang is a regular contributor to multiple online publications on topics related to pet health and the human-animal bond. Dr. Vogelsang is currently practicing as a hospice care specialist with Paws into Grace in San Diego, and has a special interest in helping loving pet owners through the difficult end of life stage.
Our goal for I Remember You is to provide a place of healing and understanding for families and individuals who feel grief or loss due to the death or illness of a pet. If you have come here seeking more understanding on behalf a family member, friend or co-worker, we applaud you for caring about your loved one.