There is no denying the impact that our pets have on our lives and the special bond that we form with them during our time together. For most people the loss of their pet is in every way comparable to, or even more difficult than, the loss of a human friend or family member. Our pets provide us with uncritical and unconditional love. They are a constant in our lives and once they are gone it can be a very difficult transition filled with grief that may sometimes be overwhelming.
The following resources will provide you with some of the tools needed to prepare for euthanasia and the loss of your companion. There are resources here that will also aid your discussion with your children regarding pet euthanasia.
ONLINE RESOURCES:
Pet Loss Support | OVC Pet Trust (uoguelph.ca)
The Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement (http://www.aplb.org/)
Grief Healing (http://www.griefhealing.com/)
Rainbow Bridge (http://www.rainbowbridge.com/)
Pet Loss Support Page (http://www.pet-loss.net/)
LITERATURE:
You will find a variety of books available online (www.amazon.ca) on coping with pet loss. The following is a short selection of those that are available.
Going Home: Finding peace when pets die by John Katz
The Loss of a Pet by Wallace Sife
When Your Pet Dies: A Guide to Mourning, Remembering and Healing by Alan D. Wolfelt PhD
Pet Loss and Children: Helping Your Child Cope with the Loss of a Pet by Erainna Winnett
Children and Pet Loss: A Guide for Helping by Marty Tousley
Addy’s Cup of Sugar by John J Muth
COUNSELLING:
There are many counsellors and therapists that focus specifically on grief support, including pet loss. You may find that a Google search for pet loss and grief support counselling will provide you with links to local therapists who can assist you during this time of loss.
For in person counselling, the website Theravive allows you to search in your location for counselling options that will suit your needs.
BetterHelp is an online counseling platform that connects users with a licensed, experienced therapist for remote teletherapy sessions. Virtual visits are conducted on your time and in the convenience of your home, car, or wherever you like via live video, phone, or chat sessions.
