The loss of a pet is an extremely emotional event.  Often it can even be more painful than the loss of a human family member.  This intense feeling is normal and you are not alone.  While navigating this journey of grief it is important to process this change and take care of yourself and your family. 

Support can be found by reading books or articles on pet loss, talking to others going through the same situation, speaking to a counselor or looking for ideas on how to memorialize and remember your pet. The below websites provide wonderful resources on pet loss and can provide a little bit of comfort and support in this difficult time.  We encourage you to explore, share and take the time you need during this most difficult time.

If you are still in the process of determining whether or not it is time, the following resources can be helpful to guide you through the decision and to track your pet’s quality of life.

Determining when it’s time

Pet Loss:

Books and articles for children

  • Helping Children Cope - https://www.funeralwise.com/pet-loss/how-to-cope/children/

  • NPR:The Dog Isn't Sleeping: How To Talk With Children About Death- https://www.npr.org/2019/03/04/698309351/the-dog-isnt-sleeping-how-to-talk-with-children-about-death

  • Dog Heaven by Cynthia Rylant

  • Cat Heaven by Cynthia Rylant

  • Being Brave for Bailey by Corey Gut, DVM

  • The Fall of Freddie the Leaf by Leo Buscaglia

  • The Tenth Good Thing About Barney  by Judith Viorst

  • My Pet Died: A Coloring Book for Grieving Children  by Alan D. Wolfel

    Books for Adults

  • Preparing for the Loss of Your Pet by Myrna Milani, DVM

  • Oh, Where Has My Pet Gone? A Pet Loss Memory Book by Sally Sibbit

  • Soul Comfort for Cat Lovers: Coping Wisdom for Heart and Soul After the Loss of a Beloved Feline  by Liz Eastwood

  • Pet Loss Meditations by Lorise Weil

  • When a Family Pet Dies  by JoAnn Tuzeo Jarolmen

  • Good-bye My Friend  by Mary and Herb Montgomery

Support groups

Support hotlines