Pet Loss and Grief Management Resources
Images credit: AAEP
The loss of a pet or an equine athlete can be incredibly devastating, especially if that animal is a member of the family. Animal lovers often feel they are on their own after a tremendous loss, but they don’t have to be – surprisingly, there are a number of resources to offer support. Thank you to the American Association of Equine Practitioners for their resource page with hotlines, articles, and more:
Disclaimer: The pet loss support resources listed on this page are not services provided by the AAEP. While we strive to keep this information current, we cannot guarantee its accuracy or availability. We encourage individuals to visit the original provider’s website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date details.
PET LOSS SUPPORT HOTLINES
These hotlines offer client grief support on weekends and evenings – please note they are not mental health services.
Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine-Pet Loss Support Hotline
- 607-218-7457
- Hours of operation: Thurs & Sun 6-9PM EST, sometimes change so check their website as needed
C.A.R.E.-Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association-Pet Loss Support Hotline
- (877) 394-CARE (2273)
- Hours of operation: Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday evenings 7-9 pm Central Time
Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine-Pet Loss Support Hotline
- 508-839-7966
- Hours of operation: Monday – Thursday EST 6-9 pm
- 24-hour voicemail returns calls during the next shift
- Scroll to bottom of page
- Hours of operation: 24/7. If you are in the room alone, use this link to see if a chat volunteer is available
GRIEF AND LOSS SUPPORT
RESOURCES
- The Humane Society of the United States: Coping with the Death of Your Pet
- American Animal Hospital Association: End of Life Care Guidelines
- ASPCA: End of Life Care
- Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement: Recommended Reading
- AVMA: Resources for pet owners
- The Ohio State University: Pet Loss Support & Online Resources
SUPPORT GROUPS
- Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement: Pet Loss Chat Room and Online Video Support (free and paid resources)
- Lap of Love: Support Groups and Individual Support Sessions (free and paid)
HOTLINES (FREE)
- A.R.E. Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association: Pet Loss Support Hotline
- Cornell University: Pet Loss Support Hotline
- Tufts University: Pet Loss Support Hotline
