We will be closed from Oct 7th-13th
Our support team will be available by phone/email for scheduling or questions
Grief Resources
Pet Loss and Grief
We understand that the death of a pet can be a difficult and painful experience. Pets are not just animals, they are members of our families, and the bonds we share with them are deep and special. The loss of a pet can leave a hole in our hearts and it can be hard for others to understand the depth of our grief. At Fireweed Veterinary Services, we understand the pain and emptiness that comes with the loss of a beloved pet, and we are here to support you as you navigate this difficult time.
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Grief and mourning are natural and normal reactions to the loss of a beloved pet. Grief is the emotional response to the loss, it can be feelings of sadness, anger, guilt, and other emotions. Mourning is the process of adapting to the absence of your pet after their death. It is important to remember that everyone grieves differently and there is no right or wrong way to grieve.
We want you to know that you are not alone and that there are resources available to help you navigate this difficult time. We've compiled a list of resources including online support groups, free chats/hotlines, and book recommendations on our website that may help.
If you are in need of someone to talk to, Pet Loss Partners and Lap of Love offer individual and group support sessions through Zoom. They are great resources to help you navigate the grieving process and cope with the loss of your pet. Additionally, some children's books can be helpful for adults in expressing complex feelings in a simple way, The Invisible Leash and Tear Soup are my favorites. Remember, you are not alone and it is important to take the time to grieve and honor the memory of your pet.
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"In the garden of memory,
in the palace of dreams...
that is where you and I shall meet."
~ Lewis Carroll
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Support Groups and Resources
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Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement https://www.aplb.org/
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Pet Loss Partners - www.petlosspartners.org
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Lap of Love - www.lapoflove.com/pet-loss-support-resources
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Tufts University Pet Loss Support Hotline - (508) 839-7966
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The ASPCA Pet Loss Helpline - (877) 474-3310
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On Spotify - Caring Pathways Pet Loss and Grief Support Playlist
Books for Adults
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“Missing Pieces… Broken Heart: A Recovery Guide for the Grief and Sorrow of Pet Loss” by B.J. Shonk
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“Buried Deep in our Hearts” by Tracie Barton-Barrett
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"When Your Pet Dies: A Guide to Mourning, Remembering and Healing" by Alan D. Wolfet, PhD
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"Coping with Sorrow on the Loss of Your Pet" by Moira Anderson Allen M.Ed.
Books for Children
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“When a Pet Dies” by Fred Rogers (ages 3-6)
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"The Invisible Leash" by Patrice Karst (ages 4-9)
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"Tear Soup: A Recipe for Healing After Loss" by Pat Schwiebert and Chuck Deklyen (ages 6-10)
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"Hachiko Waits" by Lesléa Newman (ages 7-12)
Losing a beloved pet is so difficult, but knowing there are resources available, and realizing you’re not alone when it comes to pet loss and grief, can make the process just a little easier.