Losing a beloved pet is one of the most difficult experiences any animal lover can face. If you are in Indiana and grieving the loss of your pet, know that you are not alone. The Hoosier State has a compassionate network of support resources to help you through this painful time. This guide connects you with pet loss hotlines, support groups, cremation services, and other resources throughout Indiana.
Need immediate support?
ASPCA Pet Loss Hotline: (877) 474-3310 • Purdue University: (765) 494-1107
Pet Loss Hotlines & Helplines
When you are grieving, sometimes you just need someone to listen who understands. These hotlines connect you with trained volunteers and counselors. For a complete national directory, see our free pet loss hotlines guide.
National Hotlines Available in Indiana
- ASPCA Pet Loss Hotline: (877) 474-3310
- Cornell University Pet Loss Support: (607) 218-7457
- UC Davis Pet Loss Hotline: (530) 752-4200
- Tufts Pet Loss Support: (508) 839-7966
- Michigan State University: (517) 432-2696
Pet Loss Support Groups in Indiana
Sharing your grief with others who understand can be incredibly healing. Understanding the stages of pet loss grief can also help you feel less alone in your experience.
Indianapolis Area
- IndyHumane – Indianapolis. Pet loss support resources
- Indianapolis Animal Care Services – Community grief programs
- Humane Society of Indianapolis – Grief counseling referrals
- Best Friends of Indianapolis – Community support
Fort Wayne & Northern Indiana
- Fort Wayne Animal Care & Control – Pet loss support resources
- Allen County SPCA – Community grief programs
- Humane Fort Wayne – Grief support referrals
West Lafayette & Central Indiana
- Purdue University Veterinary Hospital – West Lafayette. Grief support for clients through their social work program
- Almost Home Humane Society – Lafayette. Community resources
- Muncie Animal Care & Services – Community support
Pet Cremation & Cemetery Services
Choosing aftercare for your pet is a deeply personal decision. Our cremation vs. burial comparison guide can help you understand your options.
Indianapolis Area
- Indianapolis Pet Cemetery – Full-service pet memorial park
- Indiana Pet Cremation – Private and communal services
- Memory Lane Pet Cemetery – Indianapolis area. Burial and cremation
Other Indiana
- Purdue Veterinary Hospital – West Lafayette. Cremation for patients
- Fort Wayne Pet Cremation – Individual services
- Hoosier Pet Memorial – Central Indiana. Cemetery and crematory
Veterinary Schools with Grief Support
Indiana is fortunate to have access to veterinary programs that offer grief support:
Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine
Located in West Lafayette, Purdue's veterinary program is one of the most respected in the Midwest. Their Veterinary Teaching Hospital offers comprehensive grief support through trained social workers who help clients navigate pet loss.
Purdue CHANGES Program
Purdue's Center for the Human-Animal Bond offers the CHANGES program, which provides grief support services specifically for pet loss, including support groups and individual counseling.
Online Resources for Indiana Residents
- Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement: Free online chat support and resource directory
- GriefShare: Virtual and in-person support groups throughout Indiana
- BetterHelp & Talkspace: Online therapy with counselors experienced in pet loss grief
- The Ralph Site: Free online pet loss support community
- Reddit r/Petloss: Active online community for sharing grief and finding support
Indiana Pet Loss Laws & Regulations
- Home burial is generally permitted on private property in Indiana
- Indiana State Board of Animal Health oversees animal disposal
- Check local county and city ordinances for specific rules
- Cremation facilities must meet state environmental regulations
How to Find Local Support
- Ask your veterinarian for local recommendations – they often know the best grief counselors and support groups in your area
- Contact your local humane society or SPCA for community programs
- Search for “pet loss support group near me” plus your city name
- Check with local hospice organizations, as many now include pet loss in their grief services
- Look for therapists who specialize in grief and loss through Psychology Today's therapist directory
Remember: Your grief is valid. Losing a pet is losing a family member, and you deserve support during this time. Whether you reach out to a hotline, join a support group, or create a memorial, every step you take toward healing matters.
Find Pet Loss Support in Indiana
Browse our directory of veterinarians, grief counselors, pet cremation services, and other pet care professionals in Indiana who understand what you're going through.
Find Support in IndianaHonor Your Pet's Memory
Create a beautiful, lasting tribute to celebrate your pet's life
Free forever. Share memories with family and friends.
Related Articles
Understanding Pet Loss Grief
Navigate the stages of grief after losing a beloved pet
Pet Cremation vs. Burial Guide
Compare options and costs for your pet's aftercare
When Grief Feels Overwhelming
Coping strategies when pet loss grief feels too much
Pet Loss Support Groups Near You
Find local and online support groups for grieving pet owners