Our pets are our constant companions. Just like a ray of sunshine on a rainy day, they never fail to bring light into the darkest moments of our lives.
After the loss of a beloved pet, many of us struggle with the same feelings of grief that we experience with the passing of a human friend or loved one. The recommended pet loss support books below can help you work through this difficult emotional journey, and help you cherish the time the bond of trust and love that you shared with your pet.
When Your Pet Dies: A Guide to Mourning, Remembering and Healing
Written By Alan D. Wolfelt, PhD
This book begins by affirming and validating the grief that many of us have felt after the loss of a pet. From there, Dr. Wolfelt offers practical suggestions for memorializing a beloved pet and celebrating his or her life.
We love that this book offers steps for moving forward and grieving in a healthy way. In addition, it offers valuable information about helping children cope with pet loss, and how to approach bringing a new furry friend into your heart and home.
Goodbye, Friend: Healing Wisdom for Anyone Who Has Ever Lost a Pet
Written By Gary Kowalski
Goodbye, Friend has brought comfort to countless bereaved pet owners. Written by the Reverend Gary Kowalski, this grief support resource offers emotional guidance for those who have recently lost a pet, including ideas for pet memorials, comforting poems and readings, and honest advice about helping children work through their grief over the loss of a pet.
In addition, Kowalski addresses how animals grieve, and how to help surviving pets cope with the loss of their beloved companions. Over and over again, the author reminds us that “pets and not petty,” and that they are deserving of our deepest emotions.
Going Home: Finding Peace When Pets Die
Written By Jon Katz
New York Times best-selling author Jon Katz draws on his own personal experiences as well as the stories of others to provide support for those mourning the loss of a pet. In this touching book, Katz tells us that by grieving openly and honestly, we can better celebrate the lives of the dogs, cats, and other pets that have changed our lives forever.
Perhaps most importantly, Katz addresses those nagging feelings that we experience after a pet dies: Did I make the right choice? Did I do enough for my pet? Did they know how much I loved them? Katz helps bereaved pet owners let go of the guilt and truly honor the unconditional love and unbreakable bond that we share with our pets.
Coping with Sorrow on the Loss of Your Pet
Written By Moira Allen
Moira Allen provides bereaved pet owners with a wonderful guide for coping with the loss of a pet. Written with true compassion and empathy, this book discusses the stages of grief as they relate to pet loss, and addresses feelings of guilt and loss.
This book also offers tools and resources for creating the a meaningful pet memorial, helping surviving pets cope with the loss of their companion, dealing with people who don’t understand what you’re going through, and more.
Join the Monthly Pet Loss Support Group at Paws, Whiskers & Wags
Paws, Whiskers & Wags is proud to offer a free monthly pet loss support group for those who are mourning the loss of a pet. Led by Christy R. Simpson, L.C.S.W., our grief support group meets at our Decatur location. We welcome those who wish to share their story, or simply find a compassionate shoulder to lean on during a difficult emotional time.
For more information, please call Paws, Whiskers & Wags at (404) 609-1072, or reach out to us via our online contact form.
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