Grief Support

You are Never Alone.

A diagnosis of cancer is always difficult. At Veterinary Cancer Group, we want to make sure you have access to the best support available. In addition to our staff that is here to offer assistance, we offer the following links that provide a wealth of information. As well, see recommendations for helpful books, articles and even activity books for children.

Veterinary colleges are reliable resources.

University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine Pet Loss and Bereavement Information Site - Thorough website, including resources, information, facts about euthanasia, etc.

College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University - Pet Loss Support Hotline staffed by veterinary students.

Argus Institute - Veterinary Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital site whose mission is to strengthen veterinarian-client-patient communication and support relationships between people and their companion animals.


Other sites of interest.

American Animal Hospital Association - Dealing with the Loss of a Pet page.

Rainbow Bridge - Much beloved poem; author unknown.

V.I.P. Pet Mortuary - Personalized, compassionate, family-owned business in Los Angeles (Venice) area.

Royal Pet Mortuary - Resource for cremations, burials. Comprehensive website contains links for special urn retailers and bereavement counseling services.

Sea Breeze Pet Cemetery - Huntington Beach pet cemetery and crematory.


Helpful Books and Articles.

The Loss of a Pet
Sife, W.; Howell Book House, 1993

The Grief Recovery Handbook
James J, Cherry F.; Harper & Row, 1988

Joy in a Woolly Coat: Living With, Loving, and Letting Go
of Treasured Animal Friends

Church, J.A.; Simon and Schuster, 1985

Coping with Sorrow on the Loss of Your Pet
Anderson, M.; Peregrine Press, 1987


Books for Children About Pet Loss and Grief.

The Tenth Good Thing About Barney
Viorst, J.; New York, Antheneum, 1971

Badger's Parting Gifts
Varley, S.; Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books, 1984

It Must Hurt A Lot
Sanford, D.; Multnomah Press, 1987

When a Pet Dies
Rogers, F.; Putnam Publishing Company, 1990


Activity Books for Children.

Oh, Where Has My Pet Gone?
Pet loss memory book, appropriate for ALL ages
B Libby Press, 17225 6th Ave No., Plymouth, MN 55447-3568

My Pet Died
Rachel Biale - interactive book
Tricycle Press Dept. CF, P.O. Box 7132, Berkeley, CA 94707


Grief Counselors.

Claire Chew, M.A., Grief Recovery Specialist - Certified bereavement facilitator with a masters degree in spiritual psychology; trained in pet loss and bereavement counseling. Member of APLB (Association of Pet Loss and Bereavement), ADEC (Association for Death Education and Counseling) and AHVMA (American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association). Offers group and individual sessions. Call 310.314.9837 or visit www.clairechew.com.

Nadja Geipert, M.A., Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist - Nadja was referred to Veterinary Cancer Group by a well-respected and beloved general practice veterinarian in the community. A pet lover herself, Nadja reaches out to those who are grieving the loss a furry family member and offers practical ways to work through the challenging times. Call 310.601.6071 or visit www.LAFamilyTherapy.com.