At some point in our lives, we will all face the unbearable heartbreak that comes from losing a beloved pet. Pets are family – offering us love, companionship, joy, and comfort.
Grief is a normal, unavoidable, and emotional reaction to the loss of a treasured loved one. The devastating loss of a pet is highly personal and there’s no set timeframe for how long you will grieve. We all process loss and begin to heal at our own pace, and it’s certainly not linear.
While no two people will experience the same journey with grief, it’s important to surround yourself with compassionate people who understand the significance of your loss. And remember to be patient and kind to yourself during this difficult time.
These resources are available to help you through your grieving process
- Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota pet loss support group: This casual, peer-supported, drop-in group is open to anyone navigating the loss of a pet and provides an outlet for grieving pet parents to communicate and connect with others, and receive tools to help them cope with their loss. This group meets on the fourth Tuesday of every month via Zoom.
- University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center (VMC) resources and support group: The VMC has curated a variety of materials, articles, and books to help you cope with the loss of your companion animal. They also host a bereavement group (CALLM) on the UofM's St. Paul campus. By participating in CALLM, you will learn about what to expect from grief, strategies to cope with grief, signs of prolonged grief, and ways to memorialize and honor your late pet.
- Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center resource list: The University's Veterinary Medical Center has gathered a list of pet loss hotlines, online support groups, and suggested reading material for adults and children to help as you grieve the loss of your beloved pet.
- Peaceful Passing for Pets resources and grief support: Understand and learn how to deal with grief after the loss of a pet. For additional support preparing to say goodbye to a pet, explore their list of resources.
NOTE: Animal Humane Society's Pet Loss Support Group is no longer active. Please leverage the resources above going forward.
