Losing a beloved pet is an incredibly difficult experience. If you recently lost a pet, you are likely experiencing grief which can involve feelings of sadness, anger, shock, denial, despair, guilt, relief, anxiety, and depression.
Please know that these are all normal reactions to significant loss and there are many resources available to help you cope with this painful experience. To support our clients during this difficult time, we’ve compiled a list of grief resources that includes books, support hotlines, and websites.
Support Hotlines
Pet Loss Support Hotlines are staffed by trained volunteers to provide emotional support to pet owners going through the loss of a dear pet. Often times, these volunteers are veterinary students or veterinary staff.
- Cornell University Pet Loss Support Line
(607) 218-7457
Hours: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. EST Monday & Wednesday - Tufts University Pet Loss Support Helpline
(508) 839-7966
Hours: 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. EST Monday – Friday - Lap of Love Pet Loss & Bereavement Resource Line
(855) 352-5683
Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. EST Monday-Friday
For immediate emotional support, you can contact the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. The National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers free, confidential, and 24/7 support.
Websites
Many people find comfort in connecting with others who have been through similar losses. Online communities and nonprofit organizations provide grief articles, memorial spaces, and forums where you can share stories, ask questions, and find support at any time of day.
- RainbowsBridge.com
A long-standing online community where pet parents can create memorials, light virtual candles, and connect with others experiencing loss. - Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement
A nonprofit that offers moderated chat rooms, support groups, educational resources, and professional guidance on grieving pet loss.
Books
Books can be a source of comfort and understanding during grief. Whether you’re seeking practical guidance, emotional validation, or stories that reflect your own experience, reading can help you feel less alone and provide tools for healing.
We’ve included both adult and children’s books to support the entire family. If you have children and would like more information on how to best support them through loss, read our blog on how to support children experiencing grief and pet loss.
books for adults
- The Grief Recovery Handbook for Pet Loss by Russel Friedman
- When Your Pet Dies: A Guide to Mourning, Remembering and Healing by Alan Wolfelt
- Coping with Sorrow on the Loss of Your Pet: Third Edition by Moira Anderson Allen
books For children
- The Rainbow Bridge: A Visit to Pet Paradise by Adrian Raeside
- When a Pet Dies by Fred Rogers
- I’ll Always Love You by Hans Wilhelm
books For parents
- Talking about Death: A Dialogue between Parent and Child by Earl Grollman
- Healing a Child’s Grieving Heart: 100 Practical Ideas for Families, Friends and Caregivers by Alan Wolfelt
Professional Help
While these resources can be deeply supportive, sometimes additional help is needed. If you find that your grief feels overwhelming, is interfering with daily life, or you simply need someone to walk alongside you, please consider reaching out to a licensed mental health professional. Therapists, counselors, and veterinary social workers trained in grief support can offer specialized care to help you navigate this loss in a safe and supportive way.
Disclaimer: Perpetual Memories is not affiliated with, nor do we endorse, any of the above resources. The resources listed above are also not meant to substitute professional mental health care. This list is provided to clients as a courtesy for their convenience and to assist during a difficult time of loss.