Pet Loss and Grief - AVMA

Pet Loss and Grief from the American Veterinary Medical Association offers guidance for coping with the death of an animal companion. It acknowledges the importance of the human–animal bond and explains that grief follows no fixed timeline or set of stages. Suggestions include recognizing the loss, expressing feelings, preserving memories, and adjusting to life without the pet. It also discusses changes in personal identity and questions about meaning or spiritual beliefs. Throughout, it encourages people to treat themselves kindly and seek support from others who understand their loss.