💞 Pet Loss Support & Resources – Vet Compassion 2025 by Dr Duncan Houston

Losing a pet leaves a real void. We at Ask A Vet understand—pets are family. This guide provides heartfelt support, tools for healing, and trusted resources for coping with pet loss around the world, including Australia. 🐾

🧠 Understanding & Validating Your Grief

It’s normal to feel profound sorrow after losing a beloved companion.

• Ignore dismissive comments like “it’s just a dog”—your grief is real.
• Recognize that healing takes time. It may help to grieve intentionally but not dwell in pain.
• Experts at UC Davis and Cornell offer grief timelines and guidance for talking to children.

📚 Recommended Reading for Comfort

• Goodbye, Friend: Healing Wisdom for Anyone Who Has Ever Lost a Pet – Gary Kowalski
• Losing My Best Friend – Jeannie Wycherley
• The Last Will and Testament of an Extremely Distinguished Dog – Eugene O’Neill
• When Your Pet Dies – Alan D. Wolfelt, PhD
• Going Home: Finding Peace When Pets Die – Jon Katz

🇦🇺 Australian Pet Loss Support Resources

Here are trusted services available across Australia:

• Pets & People Pet Loss Support Line: Confidential help at 1300 431 450 (Australia)
• Grief Australia – Companion Animal Loss: Support via 1800 642 066 and online counselling :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• Rest Your Paws: Online grief counselling for pet loss :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Forever In My Heart Counselling: Renee Magri offers online pet bereavement support Australia-wide :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Petrest Grief Support: Counselling via Petrest—offers phone/Zoom support in Australia :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

🌐 International & Online Support

• National hotlines (US/Canada): ASPCA, Pet Loss Support Centers
• Online communities: Facebook groups, Reddit pet loss forums
• Tele-vet services like Dial A Vet Australia also offer grief counselling :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

❤️ Self-Care & Coping Strategies

• Let yourself grieve—tears and memories are a natural healing path.
• Create a memorial—photo book, tribute urn, or plant a memorial tree.
• Stay connected—talk to loved ones or join a grief group.
• Maintain routines—small activities, meals, and exercise help bring stability.
• Seek professional counselling (e.g. Beyond Blue or Lifeline) if grief becomes overwhelming :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.

🎙️ Support for Children

Children process pet loss differently. Parents can:

• Use age-appropriate language (e.g. comparing to losing a grandparent)
• Let kids express their feelings and ask questions
• Assign a remembrance activity—drawing a picture or writing a letter

📅 When to Consider Another Pet

Eugene O’Neill’s beloved Dalmatian reminds us: “A poor tribute to my memory never to have a dog again.” After time and reflection, welcoming a new companion can heal and honor your pet’s memory.

📲 Need Support Now? Ask A Vet

Grieving is tough—but you don’t have to face it alone. Download the Ask A Vet app to connect with caring veterinary professionals like Dr Duncan Houston anytime. We’re here to help you, and honor your pet’s legacy. 🐾