Coping With the Loss of a Pet: Grief Support and Memorial Options in Middle Sackville

Quick answer: Feelings of sadness, loss and even anger after losing a pet are natural. Middle Sackville Veterinary Care Centre supports families through pet loss with referrals to grief counselling services, resources to help both children and adults process their grief, supportive conversations and a selection of memorial options. You do not have to go through it alone. Call us at (902) 864-2882 whenever you are ready to talk.

The loss of a beloved pet can be one of the most difficult experiences a pet owner faces. Our staff are pet owners too, and we understand how much your companion means to your family. Here is how we can help.

Steps that can help after losing a pet

Step 1: Know that what you are feeling is normal. Sadness, a deep sense of loss and even anger are natural emotions after a pet dies. There is no right or wrong way to feel.

Step 2: Talk with our team. We are here for supportive conversations, whether you have questions about your pet's care or simply need someone who understands.

Step 3: Help children through their grief. Children often feel the loss of a pet deeply. We offer resources for both children and adults to help process grief. Ask us for resources that suit your family.

Step 4: Choose a way to honour your pet. We offer a selection of memorial options and can talk through the options for your pet's remains with compassion. You may also find comfort in our article on National Pet Memorial Day, which is observed on the second Sunday of September.

Step 5: Reach out for counselling if you need it. If your grief feels overwhelming, we provide referrals to grief counselling services to help you work through feelings of sadness, loss and anger.

When your pet has a serious illness

If your pet has been diagnosed with a serious illness, our team can help you understand your options and make informed decisions. That can include referrals to board-certified specialists, such as oncologists, and personalized pain management to keep your pet as comfortable as possible. Learn more in our guide to cancer in dogs and cats.

Frequently asked questions about pet loss

Do you offer grief counselling?

We provide referrals to grief counselling services and offer resources for both children and adults to help process the loss of a pet.

Can you help us with our pet's remains and memorial options?

Yes. Our team can talk through your options with compassion and share the memorial options available. Call us at (902) 864-2882 or email info@msvcc.com.

How do I help my child understand the loss of our pet?

Every child is different. Ask our team for resources designed to help children process grief.

Is it normal to feel angry after my pet dies?

Yes. Anger, along with sadness and a sense of loss, is a natural part of grief. If these feelings are hard to manage, a grief counselling referral may help.

We are here for you

If you are grieving a pet or preparing for a loss, please reach out to our team at (902) 864-2882 or info@msvcc.com. Learn more about our integrated support services, including grief counselling referrals.

Middle Sackville Veterinary Care Centre is a veterinary-owned, CVMA- and NSVMA-accredited animal hospital at 1622 Sackville Drive, Middle Sackville, NS B4E 3A8. This article is general information and is not a substitute for an examination of your pet by a veterinarian.