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Pet Loss Support
Our pet loss support group is a virtual gathering designed to provide a safe and compassionate space for individuals grieving the loss of their beloved pets. This group allows participants to connect with others who understand the profound pain and heartache associated with pet loss, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. Through facilitated discussions, members can share their feelings, memories, and stories about their pets, receiving validation and support from others who are going through similar experiences. The online format offers convenience and accessibility, enabling individuals to join from the comfort of their own homes. This can be particularly beneficial for those who may feel isolated in their grief or who find it difficult to attend in-person meetings. The support group can also provide valuable resources, such as coping strategies, grief education, and recommendations for memorializing pets. By participating in an online pet loss support group, individuals can find comfort in knowing they are not alone, learn healthy ways to process their grief, and ultimately begin to heal while honoring the memory of their cherished companions.
2025 Calendar
We will meet virtually via Zoom on the 1st and 2nd Sunday of the month. If Sunday falls on a holiday, we will plan on meeting the following Sunday.
10:30 AM to 11:15 AM PST
August 2025
- First Sunday: August 3, 2025
- Second Sunday: August 17, 2025
September 2025
- First Sunday: September 7, 2025
- Third Sunday: September 21, 2025
October 2025
- First Sunday: October 5, 2025
- Third Sunday: October 19, 2025
November 2025
- First Sunday: November 2, 2025
- Third Sunday: November 16, 2025
December 2025
- First Sunday: December 7, 2025
- Third Sunday: December 21, 2025 (Holiday season)
Pet Loss Support Group Schedule
Pet Loss Support Group Ground Rules
1. Respect Confidentiality: What is shared in the group stays in the group. Participants are encouraged to share their experiences openly, but personal stories and information should not be shared outside this space.
2. Be Kind and Supportive: Approach each other with compassion and understanding. Everyone's grief is unique, and it's important to validate each other's feelings.
3. Practice Active Listening: Allow others to speak without interruption. Show respect by listening attentively and responding thoughtfully.
4. No Judgment: Create a non-judgmental environment. Everyone copes with loss differently, and there are no right or wrong ways to grieve.
5. Share the Space: Be mindful of time when speaking. Allow everyone a chance to share by keeping your contributions concise and focused.
6. Stay On Topic: Keep discussions relevant to pet loss and grief. While it's natural to share related experiences, try to maintain the focus on the theme of the meeting.
7. Avoid Unsolicited Advice: Instead of offering solutions, focus on expressing empathy and understanding. If advice is requested, it can be offered gently and respectfully.
8. Respect Boundaries: Be aware that some participants may not be ready to share or may prefer to listen. Participation levels should be respected.
9. Use Appropriate Language: Avoid offensive or insensitive language. This is a sensitive topic, and it’s essential to be mindful of word choices.
10. Seek Professional Help if Needed: This group is a supportive space but not a substitute for professional counseling. Encourage participants to seek professional help if they are struggling significantly.
11. Technical Etiquette: Mute your microphone when not speaking to reduce background noise. Use video when possible to foster connection, but respect those who may choose not to.
12. Be Open to Different Experiences: Understand that everyone’s relationship with their pet is unique. Celebrate the diversity of experiences and emotions.
13. Use the Group's Resources: If the group has any shared resources (like links to articles, books, or helplines), feel free to utilize and share them to support one another.
14. Feedback is Welcome: Constructive feedback about the group format or rules can help improve the experience for everyone.
15. Have Patience with Yourself and Others: Grief is a process that takes time. Allow yourself and others the grace to heal at their own pace.
FEES, PAYMENT, INSURANCE OPTION: The requested donation fee to attend is $25, or what one can afford. If $25 is not affordable, please ask, and we can adjust the amount. Inform us of your payment preference amount in the body of your RSVP and it will be reflected in your invoice. Invoices are emailed to you following each meeting via Square. Insurance is accepted, please let us know.
HOW TO PAY: An invoice, using Zelle or Venmo, will be emailed to you after the Support Group meeting.