Pet Loss Resources & Support for Grieving Pet Parents
Losing a beloved pet is one of the hardest things we face, and everyone experiences grief in their own way. We’ve gathered these resources in the hope they offer comfort, understanding, and a sense of connection as you navigate this tender time.
Here you’ll find a collection of grief support organizations, memorial resources, books, and services that many pet parents have found helpful when honoring and remembering their companions.
While we can’t personally vet or endorse every organization listed, we share these resources with care and compassion in the hope that they may provide support when it’s needed most.
Please know you’re not alone—your love, and your grief, are deeply understood here.
Ways to Honor Your Pet’s Memory
Every pet leaves behind a story filled with love, companionship, and unforgettable moments. Many families find comfort in creating meaningful ways to honor and remember the animals who meant so much to them.
Some ways pet parents choose to celebrate their companion’s life include:
• creating a memorial display with a collar, photo, or keepsake
• planting a tree or flowers in their memory
• writing down favorite memories or stories
• donating to an animal rescue in their pet’s name
• sharing photos and memories with family and friends
There is no right or wrong way to remember a beloved pet. What matters most is finding a way that feels meaningful to you and honors the bond you shared.
Online Chat Rooms & Support Groups:
Whisker & Fang Pet Loss Support Group Facebook
Lap of Love Support Group
Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement (APLB) Chat Rooms
Rainbow Bridge Pet Loss Grief Center
IAADP Assistance Dog Loss Committee
Wolfie’s Wish Pet Loss Support Group Facebook
Supportive Pet Loss Communities (Apps & Online):
Love Baxter - The world’s largest collection of senior pet and pet end-of-life articles, all in one place. In-house grief and anticipatory loss support from licensed social workers and therapists who truly understand. A professional directory to help you find the right people for anything you need—before, during, or after your pet’s final moments.
Jasper Grief -Jasper is a grief support platform with groups, tools and livestream events designed to help you heal and grow through pet loss — no timelines, no expectations, just a community that gets it.
Pet Loss Community - Supporting pet parents struggling with pet loss grief and anticipatory grief. Providing One-on-One or group support for every step of your path - whether you are coping with a recent loss, fearing the loss of a beloved pet, or just figuring out how to adjust to life without your pet.
Hotlines for Pet Loss:
855-352-5683 Lap of Love Pet Loss and Bereavement Support
607-218-7457 Cornell University Pet Loss Support
508-839-7966 Tufts University Pet Loss Support
Pet Loss Support Groups & Counseling:
(Sites also have lists of support groups & counselors by city & state):
The Pet Loss Support Page
The Association of Pet Loss and Bereavement
Websites with Resources for Pet Loss and Pet Illness:
Love, Baxter
Pet Loss Community Free Resources
Lap of Love Resources
www.petloss.com
www.pet-loss.net
www.aplb.org
www.griefhealing.com
www.in-memory-of-pets.com
www.rainbowbridge.com
www.petlosscommunity.com
Association For Pet Loss and Bereavement
Colorado State University- Pet Loss Support
The Ohio State University Honoring the Bond Program
Blog - Wolfie's Wish Pet Loss Support
Pets Are Family
End of Life Care, Hospice, In-home Euthanasia Help:
Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice and In-Home Euthanasia
Comfort Care Mobile, LLC
dr.kristen@comfortcaremobilevet.com
My Peaceful Pets
Charitable Organizations to Explore:
4 Paws For Ability
Veteran Companion Animal Services
Canine Companions for Independence
Memorial Services & Unique Tributes
Many pet parents look for meaningful ways to honor their companion’s life after loss. From memorial keepsakes to symbolic tributes, these services offer unique and thoughtful ways to celebrate the bond you shared with your pet.
LGCY Pet
LGCY Pet provides memorial services designed to help families honor and preserve the legacy of a beloved companion through meaningful storytelling and remembrance. Families can create a digital tribute that shares their pet’s story, photos, and the memories that made them special. Having a dedicated place to reflect on their pet’s life can be a comforting way to keep their memory alive and share their story with others.
Space Beyond – Pet Memorial Space Flight
Some pet parents choose symbolic experiences that celebrate the journey they shared with their companion. Space Beyond offers the opportunity to send a small portion of a pet’s ashes into space as a memorial tribute. For many families, this represents the idea that their pet’s spirit continues on an endless adventure.
Learn more about memorial space flights
Common Questions After Losing a Pet
Losing a beloved pet can bring many difficult emotions and questions. While everyone experiences grief differently, these are some of the most common questions pet parents ask after saying goodbye to a companion.
Is it normal to grieve deeply after losing a pet?
Yes. The bond we share with our pets is incredibly strong. They are part of our daily lives, our routines, and our families. Feeling deep grief after losing a pet is completely normal and a reflection of the love you shared.
How long does pet loss grief last?
There is no set timeline for grief. Some people begin to feel better after a few weeks, while others may take months or longer. Grief tends to come in waves, and it’s important to allow yourself time and compassion as you process the loss.
How can I honor my pet’s memory?
Many pet parents find comfort in creating small tributes that celebrate their pet’s life. This might include displaying a favorite photo, preserving their collar, planting a tree, writing down memories, or creating a memorial space in the home.
Should I get another pet right away?
This decision is deeply personal. Some people find comfort in welcoming another pet into their lives, while others need more time to heal. There is no right or wrong answer — the most important thing is choosing what feels right for you.
Where can I find support after losing a pet?
Many pet parents find comfort in speaking with others who understand the bond we share with animals. Pet loss support groups, grief counselors, and online communities can provide understanding and compassion during this difficult time.
