PET LOSS & GRIEF (PDF)

PET LOSS & GRIEF 5 STAGES OF GRIEF DENIAL - This can't be happening to me/my pet! ANGER - Why me? This isn't fair! BARGAINING - If I could just have more time, find the best cure, do something to change the outcome. DEPRESSION - The grief and sadness can be overwhelming. ACCEPTANCE - My pet is now in a better place or has crossed the Rainbow Bridge. In addition to talking with others, doing something often helps us work through our grief. By doing something positive during this time of sadness, we expand our focus by celebrating the life of the pet. Activities which may help include: • Planting flowers or a tree in memory of the pet • Making a charitable donation • Holding a funeral or memorial service • Placing your pet's nametag on your keyring • Drawing a picture, making a clay sculpture or doing needlework of something that reminds you of your pet (you could do this yourself, or have it done by a professional), writing a poem, song, story • Creating a memorial photo album or scrap book • Writing a letter to your pet • Framing a photograph • Volunteering your time 925-443-6000 | delvallepethospital.com RESOURCES www.valleypetloss.com Valley Pet Loss Center in Livermore www.sagecenters.com Sage Pet Caregiver Support Group in Dublin www.pet-loss.net Pet Loss Support Page www.aplb.org Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement www.chancesspot.org Chance’s Spot Tri-Valley Community Pet Loss Support Group Meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month in Pleasanton from 7pm to 8:30pm. 925-307-6511 or 925-216-2569 BOOKS: Dog Heaven or Cat Heaven by Cynthis Rylant Desser the Best Ever Cat by Maggie Smith