For Reading
Grief for an animal companion is real, and often disenfranchised. These guides offer language for what you are feeling.
i.
The stages of grief
Why grief isn't linear, and what to expect in the weeks and months ahead.
Cornell University →
ii.
Helping children grieve
Age-appropriate ways to talk about loss and honor a pet's memory.
UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine →
iii.
Supporting surviving pets
Animals grieve too. How to notice the signs and provide comfort.
VCA Animal Hospitals →
iv.
Anticipatory grief
When the end is near: navigating euthanasia and saying goodbye.
Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice →
v.
Memorial & ritual
Ideas for honoring your pet's memory in ways that feel right for you.
Virginia Tech Veterinary Teaching Hospital →
vi.
For friends & family
What to say, what not to say, and how to show up for someone grieving.
University of Florida Veterinary Hospital →
vii.
Guilt & pet loss
Processing guilt, regret, and the "what ifs" that often accompany loss.
Applied Animal Continuing Education →
viii.
Disenfranchised grief
Understanding why pet loss grief is often underestimated or dismissed.
Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine →
ix.
The human-animal bond
Why the bond with a pet is special and why losing it matters so much.
Human-Animal Bond Research Institute →
x.
End-of-life decisions
Navigating the medical and emotional aspects of euthanasia.
VCA Animal Hospitals →
xi.
Pet loss across life stages
How grief differs for children, teens, adults, and older adults.
Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice →
xii.
After-death arrangements
Cremation, burial, and memorial options for honoring your pet's body.
AAFCO →
xiii.
Returning home
Tips for managing the home environment and daily routines after loss.
Dove Lewis Emergency Animal Hospital →
xiv.
When to get another pet
Deciding when and whether to bring a new animal into your home.
Companion Animal Services →
xv.
Books on pet loss
Curated reading list of books that address grief for animal companions.
Goodreads →
xvi.
Understanding grief science
The neuroscience and psychology behind how we grieve.
Psychology Today →