The loss of your beloved pet can be devastating. For most of us, our pets are not just animals, they are beings who occupy a special place in our hearts. When our dog or cat dies, something of ourselves is also lost.  As a pet owner, you may need to have your grief affirmed.  Pet sympathy cards are now widely available and some veterinary colleges have hot lines where bereaved pet owners can find a kind, understanding voice and a sympathetic ear. Most of the hotline volunteers are veterinary students who receive special training in grief counseling. If you have a child who is dealing with the death of a pet, you can help them cope by talking to them about their loss. Share some of their precious memories together and in time, their grief will diminish.

Remember, your pets count!