Losing a Family Member

Metropolitan Veterinary Associates & Emergency Services understands that the loss of a pet is a deeply painful and emotional experience.  It is normal to have feelings of shock, denial, anger, guilt, regret or depression.  People often experience physical symptoms such as crying, loss of appetite, sleep disturbances or lack of energy and motivation.  While many are fortunate to have friends and family who are supportive during the grieving process, others may need to seek out the support of people who understand the pain of pet loss.

What can help soften the pain?

• Talking to family, friends, co-workers, a support group, and/or counselor
• Writing about your pet and your feelings in a journal
• Creating a tribute or memorial to your pet
• Having a memorial service or funeral for your pet
• Sharing memories
• Being extra kind to yourself
• Realize that it will take time to heal and that there is no time limit for grief

Pet Loss Support Group

Many of our employees have experienced and understand the depth of loss one experiences when a beloved four-legged family member has passed.  For that reason, Metropolitan provides a pet loss support group to help grieving owners in need. Our pet group is designed to provide grieving pet parents with a safe, confidential environment to share their feelings with others who have experienced pet loss. 

The group is operated by veterinarians and veterinary nurses who have experience with pet loss.  A board certified psychiatrist consults with us regarding the implementation of the group.  However, our group leaders are not mental health care professionals, psychologists or psychiatrists.  Clients experiencing difficulty coping are urged to seek help from a mental health care professional.  We will provide you with the names of health care professionals if needed.

Some situations where the support of a group may be beneficial include the following:

• Death of a pet
• Euthanasia
• Runaway or lost pet
• Living with an elderly, chronically ill or terminally ill pet
• Explaining pet loss to a child

Our pet loss support group meets once or twice a month. Meetings begin at 7pm and end at 8:30pm.  Out of respect for other attendees, please be on time and plan to stay the duration of the meeting.  If you choose to attend a meeting, please RSVP at 610-666-1050 ext 235 in advance. 

For additional help, please contact one of the following hotlines for support:

• University of Florida Pet Grief Support Hotline,  352-392-2235 extension 4080
• Florida Animal Health Foundation Pet Loss Hotline, 800-798-6196
• Iams Pet Loss Support Center and Hotline, 888-332-7738
• Cornell University, College of veterinary Medicine, 607-253-3932

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