GRIEF SUPPORT
Grief Support
Honoring the Bond, Healing the Heart
The loss of a beloved pet is a profound experience. For many, pets are not just animals—they are family members, companions, and sources of unconditional love. Grieving their absence is a natural and deeply personal process. At McNett Pet Cremations, we understand the depth of this bond and are here to support you through your journey of healing.
Understanding Grief
Grief manifests differently for everyone. You may experience a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, guilt, or even numbness. These feelings are valid and part of the healing process. It's important to allow yourself the space and time to mourn in your own way.
Supporting a Grieving Friend or Family Member
If someone you care about is mourning the loss of a pet:
- Be Present: Sometimes, the most comforting thing you can offer is your presence. Sit with them, listen, and provide a shoulder to lean on.
- Listen Without Judgment: Allow them to share memories and express emotions without trying to fix their pain.
- Offer Practical Help: Grief can make everyday tasks overwhelming. Offering to assist with chores, meals, or errands can be a significant relief.
- Encourage Remembrance: Sharing stories or creating a memorial can help keep the pet's memory alive and provide comfort.
Resources for Healing
You're not alone in your grief. There are resources and communities ready to support you:
Recommended Online Resources (Click the name for their website):
- Lap of Love: Offers guidance on understanding when it's time to say goodbye and provides grief support resources.
- Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement: Provides online chat rooms, support groups, and counseling resources for those mourning a pet.
- Center for Pet Loss Grief: Offers grief support, resources, and counseling services.
- Choosing Therapy: Stages of Grief for Pet Loss: Provides insights into the grieving process and coping strategies.
- Chance's Spot
- Colorado State University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital - Argus Institute Counseling and Support Services
- Louisiana State University College of Veterinary Medicine - Best Friend Gone Project
- Michigan State University Veterinary Medical Center
- petloss.com
- The Pet Loss Support Page
- University of Tennessee Knoxville Veterinary Social Work Site
- Veterinary Wisdom
- Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine Pet Memorial Program
National Pet Loss & Grief Support Hotlines:
ASPCA: (877) GRIEF-10
The ASPCA’s psychologist and grief counselor, Dr. Stephanie LaFarge, PhD. is available 12 pm-12 am EST
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: 607-218-7457
The Pet Loss Support Hotline is available via Google Voice to facilitate support Monday through Friday from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. EST, Saturday and Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. EST. Google Voice will prompt you to enter your name before connecting, however to remain anonymous you can say “anonymous” or just enter your first name.
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University: 508-839-7966
6am-9pm Mon-Fri, 24-hr Voicemail
Nikki Hospice Foundation for Pets: (707) 557-8595
Dr. Kathryn D. Marocchino offers personalized grief counseling sessions and is generally always available, unless traveling to conferences. Callers are invited to leave a brief message if no one answers and carefully articulate their name and call-back number, especially if using a cell phone or when emotionally distressed, so that messages do not become garbled or unintelligible. Calls will be returned as soon as possible, usually within 72 hours.
University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine
Veterinary Social Work Helpline: 865-755-8839
Books About Pet Loss and Bereavement:
For Children:
The Goodbye Book – Todd Parr (Ages 2-5)
When a Pet Dies – Fred Rogers (Ages 4-8)
Dog Heaven – Cynthia Rylant (Ages 4-7)
Cat Heaven – Cynthia Rylant (Ages 4-7)
I’ll Always Love You - Hans Wilhelm (Ages 8-12)
Maddie’s Wings: A Lesson in Love – Tamera Rickman (Ages 8-12)
The Rainbow Bridge: A Visit to Pet Paradise – Adrian Raeside (Ages 8-12)
Remembering My Pet: A Kid’s Own Spiritual Remembering Workbook for When a Pet Dies – Nechama Liss-Levinson (Ages 8-12)
The Tenth Good Thing About Barney - Judith Viorst (Ages 8-12)
For Adults:
Goodbye, Friend: Healing Wisdom for Anyone Who Has Ever Lost a Pet - Gary A. Kowalski
Grieving The Death of a Pet – Betty Carmack
Coping With Sorrow on the Loss of Your Pet – Moira Allen and Moira K. Anderson
Pet Loss: A Thoughtful Guide for Adults and Children - Arlene Fischer and Herbert A. Nieburg
Pet Parents: A Journey Through Unconditional Love And Grief – Coleen Ellis
The Loss of a Pet - Wallace Sife
When your Pet Dies: A Guide to Mourning, Remembering and Healing - Alan Wolfelt, PhD
For Parents of Grieving Children:
Talking About Death – A Dialogue Between Parent and Child – Earl A Grollman
When Children Grieve: For Adults to Help Children Deal with Death, Divorce, Pet Loss, Moving, and Other Losses - John W James and Russell Friedman
Healing the Bereaved Child – Alan Wolfelt, PhD
Creating a Lasting Tribute
Honoring your pet's memory can be a meaningful part of the healing process. Consider:
- Memorial Services: Hosting a small ceremony to celebrate your pet's life.
- Keepsakes: Creating a photo album, planting a tree, or crafting a piece of art in their memory.
- Online Tributes: Sharing stories and photos on social media or dedicated memorial websites.
We're Here for You
At McNett Pet Cremations, we are committed to supporting you through every step of your journey. Whether you need someone to talk to, resources to guide you, or assistance in memorializing your pet, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Remember, grief is a testament to the love you shared. Allow yourself the grace to mourn, and know that healing, though gradual, is possible.