Even calling them a mere “pet” seems trivializing to the bond that we all have with our cats, dogs, and other animals. When dealing with the grief of losing one, it can often add insult to injury when others are insensitive. But you know they weren’t “just a pet” or “just a cat.” You have every right to feel the way you do, and it’s a testament to the bond that you had and will always have.

Hotlines:

Cornell University has a pet loss support hotline that’s open 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm (EST) every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. The number is 607-253-3932

ASPCA has a pet loss hotline support hotline at 877-GRIEF-10.

Chicago Veterinary Medical Association has a pet loss support hotline at 630-325-1600.

Tips:

HelpGuide has useful advice on Coping with Pet Loss.

A Place For Animals offers advice on Dealing with Pet Loss as well.

We will be adding many more resources to this page in the near future, so stay tuned – and know that your beloved companion will always live on through the ways they influenced you!