Pets are more than just animals — they’re family. And anyone who’s ever lost a pet knows it’s terribly heartbreaking. Whether it’s your first time to lose a pet or your third, it never really gets easier, only more familiar.
ONLINE RESOURCES
5 Ways to Help a Child Grieve the Loss of a Pet
On Mourning the Death of a Pet
Coping with the Death of Your Pet
Dealing with the Death of a Cherished Pet
BOOKS
I’ll Always Love You (Ages 4-8)
The Rainbow Bridge: A Visit to Pet Paradise
Goodbye, Friend: Healing Wisdom for Anyone Who Has Ever Lost a Pet
The Pet Loss Companion: Healing Advice from Family Therapists Who Lead Pet Loss Groups
Losing My Best Friend: Thoughtful Support for Those Affected by Dog Bereavement or Pet Loss
SUPPORT GROUPS
ASHBURN
DAY BY DAY PET SUPPORT
Meets 1st Monday of the month at 7:30 pm
Wholistic Paws Veterinary Services, 20600 Gordon Park Square, Ste. 170, Ashburn, VA 20147
571-438-0339
ALEXANDRIA
ANIMAL WELFARE LEAGUE OF ALEXANDRIA
Meets the 1st Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. in the shelter’s community room. Free; all welcome.
Vola Lawson Animal Shelter, 4101 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria, VA 22304
703–746–4774
FAIRFAX
FAIRFAX COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER
Meets 3rd Wednesday of every month at 7:30 pm
Fairfax County Animal Shelter, 4500 West Ox Rd., Fairfax, VA 22030
703–830–1100