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Losing a Friend by Cornell University Pet Loss Support Because pets occupy such special places in our hearts and invariably seem like members of our family, the loss or death of a pet naturally leaves us with deep emotions and feelings of sadness. Grief is a normal part of the healing process, but sometimes pet owners hide or refuse to recognize their emotions. The grieving process may be complicated by factors such as lack of understanding by relatives and friends, or by guilt associated with euthanasia or the release of an animal to a shelter. Comments such as "at least it was just an animal" or "you can always get another one", even if well-intentioned, tend to complicate the grief process. Although there are signs of change, our culture hasn't always validated the human-animal bond with bereavement rituals and support systems for those who have lost their companion animals. Pet Loss Hot Lines:530-752-4200 or 800-565-1526Staffed by University of California Davis veterinary students 630-325-1600 Staffed by Cornell University veterinary students 217-244-2273 or 877-394-2273 Staffed by University of Illinois veterinary students 888-478-7574 Staffed by Iowa State University veterinary students and community volunteers 517-432-2696 Staffed by Michigan State University veterinary students 614-292-1823; email petloos@osu.edu Staffed by Ohio State University veterinary students 508-839-7966 Staffed by Tufts University veterinary students 540-231-8038 Staffed by Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine 509-335-5704 Staffed by Washington State University veterinary students Candle light ceremony On Mondays all over the world candles are lit in memory of loved pets. Click to learn more. Pet loss support group meetings Click to find a support group in your state. Best friends animal sanctuary Here you will find articles about animals, how to help homeless animals, pet news, feline leukemia, lost pets, grief support, memorials, and much more. Dealing with guilt Guilt in my opinion is one of the hardest things to over come in the grieving proces. May this link help you as it did me. Poetry Many, many poems written by many authors. Chicken soup for the pet lovers soul. (amazon.com) I recommend this book to all animal lovers. It will have you laughing and crying. Sometimes you will even be doing both at the same time ;) Pet loss support forum Chat with other grieving people from all over the world. Add your pet angel or pet link to this site You can also email me to add a link. Last updated: 10/6/2006 8:55 PM CST |
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