Losing a loved one is never easy.  This is especially true for our pets who have such a big impact on our day to day lives.  They are our responsibility.  We feed them, care for them and love them.  In return, we get unconditional love.  When a pet dies or is euthanized, grief is unavoidable.  Most people aren’t surprised by the sadness they feel but aren’t aware of the other emotions they may feel including anger or guilt.  Many people are left feeling alone and may withdraw from friends and family.  This is especially true for people who are embarrassed by the grief they feel. 

Grief over losing a pet is not something to be embarrassed about or be ashamed of.  Our pets enrich our lives on a daily basis and often provide us with love and support when we feel no one else does.  Our staff understands how important the human-animal bond is and how it can affect us when we lose a pet.  We, too, are pet owners and many of us have lost pets of our own.  We understand the grief of losing a pet.  We are here to provide more than medical care for pets.  We are here to answer questions, listen and provide support for our clients during the life of their pet and after they are gone.  We can also provide resources on loss, death and the grief process.  Below are websites for a pet loss support line and group if you do not feel comfortable talking to one of our staff.

Ontario Veterinary College Pet Loss Support Hotline
(519) 824-4120 ext 53694
Website: www.ovc.uoguelph.ca/petloss

Ottawa-Carleton Pet Loss Support Group
Website: www.geocities.com/Heartland/Bluffs/2625/index.html