Resources on Grief + Bereavement

[We are always adding new resources.]

Books:

On Death and Dying, by Elizabeth Kübler-Ross (1969). This ground-breaking classic discusses the five stages of grief. While written presumably for the death of a beloved person, these stages apply equally to the loss of an animal friend. A helpful read to understand the varied and dynamic grief process.

Dog Medicine, by Julie Barton ((2016). Less about coping with loss, and more about diving into the power and impact dogs have on our lives. This memoir was so moving: a young woman’s painful struggle with depression and how her dog saved her.

The Craggy Hole in My Heart and the Cat Who Fixed It, by Geneen Roth (2005). This national best seller is a tender read about loving without reservation and the significance of losing loved ones.

Articles:

How to Grieve for a Very Good Dog, by Annette McGivney, Outside Magazine (Sept. 2, 2021).

Pet Loss and Grief, American Veterinary Medical Association, Downloadable PDF Brochure (2022).

Pet Loss Support:

Companion Animal Love, Loss & Memories Group (CALLM). The University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center (VMC) offers a bereavement group to support those grieving the loss of a beloved companion animal.

Pet Loss Counseling — Patricia Lee Rode

Online Obituaries:

Pet Heaven. “The Pet Heaven team has created a website to celebrate the lives of and honor the memories of beloved family pets. Post a FREE obituary in remembrance of your pet.”

Lap of Love — Pet Memorials. “Remembering the pets who have crossed the rainbow bridge and the paw prints they've forever left on our hearts.”

Other:

Animal Emergency and Referral Center of Minnesota offers resources to support you and your animal companion.