Pet Loss Support Groups: Find Help and Healing Near You
Connect with others who understand your grief and find healing in community
Losing a beloved pet is one of life's most challenging experiences. The grief can be overwhelming, and many people don't understand the depth of pain that comes with losing an animal companion. That's why a pet loss support group provides an invaluable space for healing — connecting you with others who truly understand what you're going through.
Whether you prefer in-person meetings, online communities, or phone support, there are compassionate pet loss support groups available to help you navigate this difficult journey. This comprehensive directory will help you find the right group for your needs, including free options in major cities across the United States. You can also honor your pet with custom pet art — turn their favorite photo into a portrait.
Find Pet Loss Support Groups
Found 16 support groups matching your criteria
ASPCA Pet Loss Hotline Support Group
Free phone counseling and online support groups led by trained professionals
Rainbow Bridge Pet Loss Support
Online grief counseling sessions and community forums for pet parents
NYC Veterinary Hospital Pet Loss Group
Monthly in-person support meetings at Animal Medical Center
410 East 62nd Street
First Tuesday of each month, 6:30 PM
Free
In-person
Chicago Pet Loss Support Circle
Compassionate support group meeting at local community center
2430 N Cannon Dr
Weekly Wednesdays, 7:00 PM
$10 suggested donation
In-person
LA Pet Bereavement Group
Professional therapist-led group at VCA West LA Animal Hospital
11301 Wilshire Blvd
Bi-weekly Thursdays, 6:00 PM
Free for VCA clients, $20 others
In-person
Houston Pet Grief Support
Hybrid meetings offering both in-person and virtual attendance options
14520 Memorial Dr
Monthly, third Saturday, 2:00 PM
Free
Hybrid
Phoenix Rainbow Bridge Circle
Grief counselor-facilitated support meetings
1850 N Central Ave
Bi-weekly Mondays, 6:30 PM
$15 per session
In-person
Seattle Pet Loss Support Network
Inclusive support group with hybrid meeting options
1601 16th Ave
Weekly Tuesdays, 7:00 PM
Sliding scale $0-25
Hybrid
Boston Companion Animal Support
MSPCA-Angell hosted support group for grieving pet parents
350 South Huntington Ave
Monthly, second Wednesday, 6:00 PM
Free
In-person
Denver Pet Bereavement Circle
Compassionate support in the heart of Denver
3000 S Holly St
Bi-weekly Sundays, 3:00 PM
Free will donation
Hybrid
Miami Pet Loss Healing Group
Bilingual support group (English/Spanish)
6501 SW 124th Ave
Weekly Thursdays, 7:30 PM
$20 per session
In-person
Portland Compassionate Friends - Pet Loss
Extension of Compassionate Friends specifically for pet loss
1320 NW Lovejoy St
Monthly, first Monday, 6:30 PM
Free
Hybrid
Pet Compassion Careline
24/7 telephone support for immediate grief counseling
Lap of Love Pet Loss Support
Virtual support groups led by veterinary social workers
Cornell Pet Loss Support Hotline
Veterinary student-staffed emotional support hotline
Tufts Pet Loss Support Hotline
Veterinary student-run support line with trained counselors
Types of Pet Loss Support Groups
Not every pet loss support group is the same. Understanding the different formats can help you choose the one that fits your comfort level and schedule.
👥In-Person Support Groups
Traditional face-to-face meetings provide direct human connection and the comfort of sharing physical space with others who understand your loss.
- ✓Direct emotional support and hugs when needed
- ✓Build lasting local friendships
- ✓Often held at veterinary clinics or community centers
- ✓Usually meet weekly or monthly
💻Online Support Groups
Virtual meetings and forums offer flexibility and accessibility, connecting you with grieving pet parents worldwide from the comfort of home.
- ✓Join from anywhere, no travel required
- ✓Greater anonymity if desired
- ✓24/7 forum access for immediate support
- ✓Connect with people globally
📞Phone Support Hotlines
Immediate one-on-one support when you need someone to talk to right away, staffed by trained counselors who understand pet loss.
- ✓Immediate support during crisis moments
- ✓Complete privacy and anonymity
- ✓No appointment necessary
- ✓Often free and confidential
🔄Hybrid Support Groups
The best of both worlds—offering in-person meetings with virtual attendance options for maximum flexibility and inclusivity.
- ✓Choose format based on your comfort
- ✓Continue attending even when traveling
- ✓Larger, more diverse community
- ✓Accommodates different needs and preferences
What to Expect at Your First Pet Loss Support Group
Attending your first pet loss support group can feel overwhelming. Here's what typically happens to help you feel prepared:
Before the Meeting
- 1.Registration: Some groups require pre-registration, while others welcome walk-ins
- 2.Preparation: Bring tissues, water, and perhaps a photo of your pet if you'd like
- 3.Arrival: Arrive a few minutes early to get settled and meet the facilitator
During the Meeting
- •Introductions: Brief introductions, but sharing is always optional
- •Sharing Circle: Members share their stories at their own pace
- •Active Listening: Focus is on listening without judgment
- •Emotional Expression: Tears are normal and welcomed
Group Guidelines
- •What's shared in group stays in group (confidentiality)
- •No pressure to share until you're ready
- •Respect for all types of pets and relationships
- •No comparing of grief or losses
Stories of Healing
"After losing my golden retriever Max, I felt so alone. Friends didn't understand why I was so devastated 'over a dog.' The support group saved me. Finally, I was with people who understood that Max wasn't just a pet—he was family."
"The online support group was perfect for me. I'm introverted and wasn't ready for in-person meetings. Being able to type my feelings and read others' stories at 2 AM when I couldn't sleep was exactly what I needed."
"I was skeptical about a phone hotline, but when grief hit me like a wave one evening, I called. The volunteer listened to me talk about my cat Whiskers for an hour. No judgment, just compassion. It made all the difference."
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Loss Support Groups
Are pet loss support groups free?
Many pet loss support groups are completely free, especially those run by veterinary schools, the ASPCA, and nonprofit organizations. Some in-person groups may ask for a small donation ($10-20) to cover room rental. Phone hotlines like Cornell and Tufts are always free. Online communities and forums are also typically free to join.
Can I join an online pet loss support group?
Absolutely. Online pet loss support groups are widely available and just as effective as in-person meetings. Options include live video sessions led by grief counselors, 24/7 forums where you can post anytime, and social media communities. Online groups are especially helpful if there are no local groups in your area or if you prefer the comfort and privacy of attending from home.
How do pet loss support groups help with grief?
Pet loss support groups help by providing a safe, judgment-free space to express your feelings with people who genuinely understand. Hearing others share similar experiences reduces the isolation many pet owners feel. Facilitators often teach healthy coping strategies, and the community aspect reminds you that your grief is valid. Research shows that group support can significantly reduce the duration and intensity of bereavement.
What should I expect at a pet loss support group?
At your first pet loss support group meeting, expect a warm welcome from a trained facilitator. Sessions typically last 60-90 minutes and begin with brief introductions. You will never be forced to speak — listening is perfectly fine. Members share stories about their pets, and tears are normal and welcomed. Confidentiality is a core rule. Most people leave feeling lighter and less alone in their grief.
How soon after my pet's death should I join a support group?
There's no "right" time — some people benefit from immediate support, while others need time to process alone first. Most experts suggest trying a pet loss support group within the first few weeks if you're struggling, but it's never too late to seek support, even months or years later.
Are pet loss support groups only for dogs and cats?
Not at all. Pet loss support groups welcome anyone grieving the loss of any pet — birds, rabbits, horses, reptiles, or any animal companion. The bond you shared matters more than the species.
What if there's no support group in my area?
Consider online groups, phone hotlines, or starting your own local group. Many national organizations can provide guidance on starting a pet loss support group in your community. Individual grief counseling is also an option.
Pet Loss Support by City
New York City Pet Loss Support
NYC offers numerous options including the renowned Animal Medical Center support group in Manhattan. With multiple hospitals and community centers hosting groups, New Yorkers have access to both in-person and virtual support options.
Find NYC groups above →Los Angeles Pet Grief Counseling
LA's pet-loving community offers support through VCA hospitals, independent counselors, and online groups. The mild climate allows for outdoor memorial gatherings and healing walks.
Find LA groups above →Chicago Pet Bereavement Groups
Chicago's strong community spirit extends to pet loss support with multiple neighborhood groups, veterinary hospital programs, and the unique Lincoln Park support circle.
Find Chicago groups above →Houston Pet Loss Resources
Houston's diverse community offers bilingual support options and hybrid meetings. The city's many veterinary colleges provide student-led support programs.
Find Houston groups above →Additional Pet Loss Resources
Helpful Resources for Your Healing Journey
Books on Pet Loss
- • "The Loss of a Pet" by Wallace Sife
- • "Goodbye, Friend" by Gary Kowalski
- • "Coping with Sorrow" by Moira Anderson Allen
- • "Heart Dog" by Roxanne Hawn
Online Communities
- • Rainbow Bridge Forum
- • Pet Loss Grief Support on Facebook
- • Reddit r/Petloss community
- • Tuckerly Memorial Pages
Professional Help
- • Pet loss grief counselors
- • Veterinary social workers
- • Licensed therapists specializing in grief
- • Pet loss coaches
Memorial Ideas
- • Create an online obituary
- • Plant a memorial tree or garden
- • Commission custom artwork
- • Donate to shelter in pet's name
State-by-State Pet Loss Resources
We have compiled detailed pet loss resource guides for some of the most populated states. These pages include local support groups, hotlines, veterinary grief programs, and community organizations specific to your area. We also have a dedicated guide for military service members dealing with pet loss.
Honor Your Pet's Memory
Create a beautiful online obituary to celebrate your pet's life and connect with others who understand your loss
Join thousands who have found comfort in sharing their pet's story