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[ Home > Dog Training, Dog Obedience and Dog Care "Quick Tips" > The Loss of a Pet ]

The Loss of a Pet

The death of a pet can be devastating and at the same time very misunderstood by friends and family. We have a tendency to minimize the grief that people feel. The comment is usually: get over it! It's just a dog. To people who have lost this four legged companion, it leaves them only one option: suffer in silence. As in human loss, with the loss of a pet the best way to work through your grief is to talk about it with someone who is supportive. Recognizing the need for this type of support, many of the veterinarian schools have set up hot lines staffed by specially trained counselors in grief and bereavement.

These hot lines also provide support for people who are anticipating the loss of a pet. The counselors are able to answer questions about what the veterinarian said. You can request a packet with articles and suggestions on working through your grief.

Here is a list of resources:

Hotlines:
ASPCA National Pet Loss Hotline - (800) 946-4646 pin#140-7211
The Imams Co. Pet Loss Support Hotline - (888) 332-7738

Veterinary Social Workers:
The Animal Medical Center - (212) 838-8100
Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine - (970) 491-1242
University of California, Davis - (532) 752-4200
University of Florida, Gainesville - (352) 392-4700
University of Illinois, Urbana - (217) 333-2760
University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia - (215)898-4529

When you suffer the loss of a dog, what happens to the remaining dogs in your home? The first really bad thing we do as humans is bring the remains of Fido home and bury him in the back yard. This act gives humans great solace but devastates the remaining pack. In the wild the pack would have moved on. In your back yard, they can't. You will see dogs begin to bark and become destructive. Maybe even lethargic and not want to go in the back yard.

May I make some suggestions? Visit with your veterinarian. Find out about your local pet cemetery or crematorium. Both of these are wonderful options. Cremation allows you to keep Fido near you even if you move, making it possible for you to visit everyday. The Pet Cemetery allows you the option to visit and gather your thoughts outside.