Category Archives: Grieving the loss of a pet

MN Pets Grief Support Email Series

Grief support email series Losing a beloved companion can be the most painful thing we endure in life.  Many people report that losing a dear animal friend is more difficult that losing their human friend or family member.  It is … Continue reading

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Styles of Grief

There is no right way or wrong way to grieve. Many of us have heard this, yet still, when faced with the death of a loved one, we may wonder whether our experiences are ‘normal’. There is a cultural idea … Continue reading

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Making Meaning Out of Loss

The death of a beloved pet changes your life forever. As grief scholars Nancy Hooyman and Betty Kramer write in Living Through Loss, losing a loved one – whether animal or human – can challenge some of our deepest-held beliefs, … Continue reading

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The Year of Loss

2020 has been difficult enough. From the covid-19 pandemic, to the historic fires here and on the other side of the world, to extreme social and political unrest, to economic instability, this year feels like it has been filled with … Continue reading

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Local Resources

We recognize that companion animals play an important role in all of our lives, and that they are an especially important source of support when we are experiencing other life challenges. The loss of a pet can bring up complex … Continue reading

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Anticipatory Grief: The Sadness Before the Loss

When we learn that our beloved pet has a terminal illness, or we realize that they are struggling with the changes that old age brings, many of us feel a deep sense of loss or grief even though our pet … Continue reading

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What life is like now

When your pet dies, everything changes. Your morning routine, your shopping lists, the space in your bed. The void that creeps into your life and the hole you can’t seem to fill in your heart is your new normal. When will … Continue reading

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Coping With Grief During the Holidays

For many people, the holidays are a time spent with our loved ones, celebrating our relationships and togetherness. When you have lost a family member, including a beloved pet, the holidays can magnify your sense of loss. Suddenly, the merriment … Continue reading

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Pets and grief: involving other pets in an end of life appointment.

Often, our clients have more than one pet at home, and they wonder where their other pets should be during the euthanasia appointment.  While this is a personal choice and it depends on the pets involved, we do have some … Continue reading

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Am I ready for another pet?

The ifs and whens of getting another pet can be complicated and emotional, and no two experiences are exactly alike. While there isn’t necessarily a “right” or “wrong” decision, there are some questions you should ask yourself to help explore … Continue reading

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