Pet Loss Support Groups

These groups bring together people grieving the death of a companion animal. Pet loss is one of the most common forms of disenfranchised grief: grief others do not recognize as legitimate. People devastated by the death of a dog, cat, horse, or bird often hear "it was just an animal" or "you can get another one." These groups offer a place where the grief is taken seriously and the depth of the human-animal bond is understood. They are run by veterinary schools, humane societies, organizations like the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement, and online communities.

Who it's for, and who it's not

A fit for anyone whose grief is being minimized or who feels alone in it.

Prolonged, severely impairing grief may call for individual therapy too.

Suicidal thoughts in the context of the loss need crisis support. Call or text 988.

What it's for

Anyone grieving an animal's death: from illness, euthanasia, accident, or disappearance.

Euthanasia loss, including the guilt and self-questioning that can follow the decision.

Anticipatory grief for an animal with a terminal illness, and loss of working or service animals.

What to expect

1Sessions run 60 to 90 minutes in an open sharing format, in person and online.

2Members share about their animal, often with photos. No pressure to share at first.

3Online groups via APLB run around the clock, which matters most in acute grief.

No controlled trials of these groups exist yet, but the pet-loss literature is clear.

A review of 19 qualitative studies found pet grief is real, intense, and can be prolonged, with disenfranchisement by others a key complicating factor.¹

A literature review found social support consistently moderates grief outcomes after companion animal loss.²

Making the most of it

Bring a photo. Most groups welcome you sharing who your animal was, not just how they died.

The guilt belongs here. Euthanasia second-guessing is common and the group can hold it.

Reach for online in acute grief. Around-the-clock forums help when a weekly meeting feels far off.

Questions to ask before you join

1Does this group make space for euthanasia guilt and second-guessing?

2Is it a live meeting, or an around-the-clock online forum?

3Who facilitates it, and is it free?

Ready to find a group?

Browse 2,000+ therapy and support groups in all 50 states.

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In crisis? Call or text 988 (US Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, 24/7).

The Group Guide is a directory, not a clinic. This handout is general education, not medical or mental health advice. Listings are written by group leaders and are not endorsements. Confirm details, cost, and fit with any group you contact. Sources on page 2.