World Pet Memorial Day

Pet Loss

“If the stars alone could bring you home, I would wish on every one.” 

 A Pocket Full of Grief
Jessica Tyrell

When it began, we’re not sure, but every second Tuesday in June has been designated to honor our animal friends who have passed. This year, World Pet Memorial Day fell on June 9. Some pet lovers may want to follow Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day, which is observed annually on August 28.

Anyone who has had a pet as a best friend and family member understands the feeling of loss that accompanies their passing. Many of us who have lost our pets may not need to rely on a designated day to recall their loss, though there are others who find special comfort in these established remembrance days.

Animals provide so very much joy, companionship, emotional support, and bonding, which makes it so difficult to part with them.

How does one deal with the loss? Some possibilities for dealing with the loss of a pet follow. Additional information and links are provided.

Ideas to assist through the grieving process:

• Communicate with those who understand your grief. The pet lovers’ community is a strong one and can be a shoulder to lean on. Many As Good as Gold friends/members have gone through pet loss and prove to be extremely supportive and understanding—don’t hesitate to reach out to them.
• Create a memorial in a special place in your home or garden, perhaps include a memorial stone.
• “In Memory” donations. Donate to a local animal rescue group in your pet’s name. (As Good as Gold offers the ability to make “In Memory” donations https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E356588&id=1
• Volunteer at your local animal shelter or rescue group.  Give back to the animals by volunteering your time and company.  There are many different types of activities — something for everyone!  (Would you be up to dog sitting for As Good as Gold foster dogs or members’ pets?) https://www.asgoodasgold.org/dog-sitting-program/
• Plant flowers, a tree, or a shrub in honor of your pet. A potted plant could be a consideration too, if space is limited. The beauty of nature will encourage your smile!

• Make a memory book or photo album. Most of us have lots of photos of our dogs on our phones. There are many different websites and apps available that make creating a memory book simple and seamless.  You might try Mixbook https://www.mixbook.com/photo-books, Shutterfly https://www.mixbook.com/photo-books, or check the CVS or Walgreens apps.

Resource: https://caringhandsvet.com/world-pet-memorial-day/

 In between hello and good-bye there was so much love.

Counseling

•  Your veterinarian could be a superb source for recommendations to assist you as you process this loss. They may have a list of pet loss counselors or support groups.
• The Chicago Veterinary Medical Association, through their Human-Animal Bond Committee, offers the Pet Loss Support Helpline and “Wings,” a pet loss support group.
  • The Helpline is a free service for grieving pet owners. Trained volunteers offer support by active listening as well as providing printed materials and referrals when needed. Helpline number: 630 325 1600
  • Wings – Pet Loss Support Group Wings hosts a Zoom meeting on the first Wednesday evening of every month. Call the CVMA office for details 630 325 1231.

Additional Resources offering free grief support group sessions and more:

https://www.hinsdalehumanesociety.org/events/pet-loss-grief-support-group-sessions

https://www.pawschicago.org/news-resources/resources/coping-with-pet-loss

Facts about Grief:

https://www.veterinarywisdom.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Five-Facts-about-Grief-2021.pdf

The following information was gathered through the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine

 https://vet.purdue.edu/search.php?q=pet+loss#gsc.tab=0&gsc.q=pet%20loss&gsc.page=1

 In her writing, Moira Moira Anderson Allen, M.Ed. writes,

Anyone who considers a pet a beloved friend, companion, or family member knows the intense pain that accompanies the loss of that friend. Following are some tips on coping with that grief, and with the difficult decisions one faces upon the loss of a pet.

Intense grief over the loss of a pet is normal and natural. Don’t let anyone tell you that it’s silly, crazy, or overly sentimental to grieve!

During the years you spent with your pet (even if they were few), it became a significant and constant part of your life. It was a source of comfort and companionship, of unconditional love and acceptance, of fun and joy. So don’t be surprised if you feel devastated by the loss of such a relationship.

Some find it helpful to express their feelings and memories in poems, stories, or letters to the pet. Other strategies including rearranging your schedule to fill in the times you would have spent with your pet; preparing a memorial such as a photo collage; and talking to others about your loss.

For Ms. Anderson Allen’s complete article and additional resources, please go to her site,

Pet-loss.net:

https://pet-loss.net/?_ga=2.197477414.86456964.1716743482-1692422633.1716743482

See also

Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement (APLB)

Hosts many resources to assist families in coping with the loss of their family pet.

https://www.aplb.org/?_ga=2.165316918.86456964.1716743482-1692422633.1716743482

I was scared to move to the next chapter in the thought of leaving you behind.
But you can’t carry on a story without the memory of what has been.

 A Pocket full of Grief
Jessia Tyrrell