Pet Loss Support

Feel like you’ve lost your best friend?

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Many of us do not anticipate the significant impact the loss of a pet can have on our lives. And, our society does not always recognize that the loss of a pet can be as painful as the loss of a human family member. When the time comes to say goodbye, we often find ourselves unprepared to deal with the intensity of the emotions that accompany this life-changing event.

At Willamette Humane Society, we understand how difficult it is to lose a beloved family pet. That is why we offer a regular Pet Loss Support for people struggling with the emotional aftermath of the death of a pet.

Call one of our pet loss support staff at 503-585-5900 ext. 300, or attend a pet loss support session, held the first and third Saturday of each month, from 10:30 am – 11:30 am.

We grieve in a variety of ways, and there is no one correct way to do so. The following are some ideas for things you can do to help nurture this process along while honoring your pet for all the joy s/he has brought into your life:
• Hold a memorial for your pet, inviting those who knew him/her best
• Dedicate a photo album to the memory of your pet
• Write a poem or letter to your pet
• Plant a tree or flower in his/her honor
• Light a candle in memory of your pet
• Create a memorial box containing pictures of your pet, collar/id tags, fur, etc.
• Make a drawing, painting or sculpture of your pet
• Volunteer your services at WHS
• Make a donation to WHS in your pet’s name.