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 

Coping with Losing a Pet 

Grieving the Death 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

Saying Goodbye to Your Pet

 

BOOKS

I’ll Always Love You (Ages 4-8)

Cat Heaven (Ages 4-8)

Dog Heaven (Ages 4-8)

The Rainbow Bridge: A Visit to Pet Paradise

The loss of a Pet 

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