Pet Loss Support Groups

The loss of a beloved pet can be a devastating experience. Unfortunately, as a pet lover, there will come a time when you will experience that loss. Whether the cause is a medical problem, old age or accidental, it is important to recognize and understand the emotions you will be feeling. There are many pet loss support groups available to help individuals work through the loss of a pet.

  1. San Diego Humane Society Pet Loss Support Group

    • The San Diego Humane Society's pet loss support group is run by a licensed clinical social worker. While this support group is a free service for those suffering the loss of a pet, or preparing for the loss of a pet, donations to the society are welcome. Evening and weekend sessions are available, and the San Diego Humane Society advises individuals to make reservations to ensure that they have a spot in their preferred session. This support group is open to individuals from the age of 10, and it is asked that newcomers bring along a picture of their pet.

    Metropolitan Veterinary Associates Pet Loss Support Group

    • The pet loss support group run by Metropolitan Veterinary Associates, a facility providing specialized and emergency veterinary care, is supervised by both veterinarians and veterinary nurses who have experienced the loss of a pet. These veterinarians and veterinary nurses are advised by a board-certified psychologist. This support group is intended as a confidential, safe environment for grieving pet owners, and it meets up to twice a month in the evening. Attendees must call the clinic prior to the session to confirm that they will be joining the group.

    Paw to Heart

    • Supportive care counselor Medea Dawn Berkman runs paw to Heart Animal Bereavement Support Services. Monthly support groups are hosted in the conference room of the the Long Island Veterinary Services Center. Issues such as universal grief, terminal illness and euthanasia are addressed in a non-threatening, safe atmosphere. This support group is open to anyone who is dealing with the loss of a pet through separation or death, and prospective members are required to call before attending a meeting. Paw to Heart also offers email and telephone pet loss counseling.

    Pet Loss Therapy

    • Andrea Keith, a therapist certified in grief, loss and bereavement, hosts pet loss counseling and support group sessions at her Pet Loss Therapy practice. These support group sessions are open to the public and registration is not required. At a cost of $25 per support group session, or $60 for three sessions, meetings are held on the first and third Saturdays of each month in the early afternoon. This support group is intended to provide constructive and compassionate emotional support for those experiencing the loss of a pet. Andrea Keith also provides pet loss therapy services for children, individuals, families and couples priced at $140 per session. Check the "Resources" section for information on additional pet loss support groups.