Pet Loss & Grief

Person hugging an old golden retriever outdoors during sunset, with mountains and sky in the background.
An orange cat sitting on snow-covered ground in a winter forest, looking at snow-laden trees and blue sky.

Losing a pet is a unique grief.

Everyone grieves differently and has shared a different love and set of experiences with their companion. Making the decision to humanely euthanize a pet is also a decision unlike any other that most of us will face.

Two people are hugging in a large room filled with seated people. The room has beige walls, a wooden door with double panels. One person is wearing a beanie and a red jacket, while the other is in a gray hoodie.

Local Grief Counseling

One of our partners, Pet Meadow, offers Grief Counseling and Grief Support Groups.

Some people use these services once and some will use them for years, finding a local community they enjoy being part of.

You are not alone. No two people’s grief journey is the same, but everyone deserves support and comfort during these times.

Pet Loss Hotline

Cornell Pet Loss Hotline (M-F 6PM-9PM; Sat & Sun 12-9PM): (607) 218-7457

National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (just dial 988)

Please note: The widely listed ASPCA Pet Loss Hotline is no longer active.

Online Support Groups & Counseling

Lap of Love: Individual counseling, group counseling, grief support courses

HelpGuide: Coping with Losing a Pet

Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement (chat rooms, memorial postings)
TwoHearts Pet Loss Center (Resources, articles, videos and journals)