Losing a loved one is never easy, regardless of whether they happen to be human or animal. In fact, experts believe that the death of a pet can be just as hard, if not harder than losing a relative or friend. At Santaluz Animal Care, we understand the deep sorrow and grief you are experiencing. Each one of us has been in your shoes. And while we can’t necessarily make your loss less painful, we are hopeful the following tips and resources will help with the grieving process.
Tips for coping with the loss of a pet:
- Acknowledge your grief and don’t be afraid to express your feelings.
- Reach out to others who can lend a sympathetic ear.
- Prepare a memorial to honor your pet.
- Speak with your veterinarian or local humane society
In addition to connecting with a friend, family member or local vet, there are many other forms of support you may want to consider. For instance, there are pet-bereavement counseling services, pet-loss support hotlines, local or online pet-bereavement groups, books, videos, and magazine articles. Here are a few resources to get you started:
Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement
http://www.aplb.org/
Professionally trained volunteers in pet bereavement and counseling.
California Veterinary Medical Association
https://cvma.net/resources/pet-loss-support/
California Pet Loss support groups and resource guide to coping with the passing of a pet.
http://www.petloss.com/
Gentle and compassionate website for pet lovers. Here you will find personal support, thoughtful advice, healing poetry, and more.
http://www.pet-loss.net/
Ten tips on coping with Pet Loss by Moira Anderson Allen, M.Ed.
https://www.sdhumane.org/services/pet-loss-support/
The San Diego Humane Society’s Pet Loss Support Group provides an environment of healing and is facilitated by a licensed professional. The group is open to everyone ages 10 and up who have recently lost a pet, are still mourning an old loss, or are anticipating or preparing for euthanasia.
https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/grief/
Mental health support for individuals who are dealing with grief and are at risk for relapse and depression.
TedX Talk: The Emotional Costs of Euthanasia by Dr. Sarah Hoggan, DVM
https://www.ted.com/talks/sarah_hoggan_the_emotional_costs_of_euthanasia
BetterPet: A Guide To End of Life Pet Care
https://betterpet.com/end-of-life-pet-care/
Local Pet Loss Support Groups
Rancho Coastal Humane Society, https://rchumanesociety.org/pet-loss-support-program/
San Diego Humane Society, https://www.sdhumane.org/services/pet-loss-support/
The Rock Church San Diego, https://www.sdrock.com/search/?q=pet+loss
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