Grief Support

There are 3 distinct steps in reflecting on the life of your faithful companion. Each guide and help you through the process towards creating an appropriate and meaningful way to memorialize your pet.

	Remember: As we reflect upon the life of our pet, we find ourselves fondly reminded of the special personality, wondering curiosity and playful behavior that would make us smile for hours upon hours. Around your home there are plenty of memories (pictures, toys, collar, leash, etc…) that made your pet special that can be used in the creation of an appropriate memorial.
	Cherish: When a pet dies, the idea of holding a private gathering can be supported through the creation of a unique and personal memorial service. Allow yourself this time to gather together with family and friends and say goodbye in the most appropriate manner.
	Celebrate: The thought of a memorial for your pet symbolizes the lasting bond that will always exist between you and your special companion. Establishing a permanent memorial can be through purchasing a personalized urn to hold the cremated remains, custom plaque, garden stone, memory box, park bench, bird bath, etc...

You are not alone.

Here is a list of support and informational resources to help you through your loss.

Coping with the death of your pet
The Humane Society of the United States
Chance's Spot Pet Loss and Support Resources
Pet Loss Support
The Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement, Inc.
Pet Loss Resource Guide
CARE Pet Loss Helpline
Kid's Health Site
Pet Loss Grief Support
Grief Healing
The Online Pet Loss, Grief & Illness Support Network

Pet Loss Books

For Adults:

• Blessing the Bridge: What Animals Teach Us About Death, Dying , and Beyond
  by Rita M. Reynolds, NewSage Press, 2001
• Cold Noses at the Pearly Gates
  by Gary Kurz, Gary Kurz, 1997
• Goodbye, Friend: Healing Wisdom for Anyone Who Has Ever Lost a Pet
  by Gary Kowalski, Stillpoint Publishing, 1997
• Help Me Say Goodbye: Activities for Helping Kids Cope When a Special Person Dies
  by Janis Silverman, Fairview Press, 1999
• There is Eternal Life for Animals
  by Niki Behrikis Shanahan, Pete Publishing, 2002

For Children:

• Cat Heaven
  by Cynthia Rylant (Illustrator), Scholastic Trade, 1997
  Reading level: Ages 4-8 years
• Dog Heaven
  by Cynthia Rylant (Illustrator), Scholastic Trade, 1995 Reading level: Ages 4-8 years
• For Every Dog an Angel
  by Christine Davis (Illustrator), Lighthearted Press, 1997
  Reading level: 4-8 years
• I'll Always Love You
  by Hans Wilhelm, Crown Publishing, 1989
  Reading level: 4-8 years
• Sad Isn't Bad: A Good-Grief Guidebook for Kids Dealing With Loss
  by Michaelene Mundy, R. W. Alley (Illustrator), Abbey Press, 1998
  Reading level: 4-8 years
  

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