Saying goodbye to such a good friend of so many years can truly be heartbreaking. You’ve shared many good times and memories together. It can be very difficult coping with the loss of a devoted companion, guardian, four-legged co-worker, and family member. Listed below are resources for you and your friends and family. If you are having extreme difficulty dealing with the death of your pet, please do not hesitate to call the crisis numbers below. They can put you in contact with additional resources in your area.

Books for Children*

When a Pet Dies // F. Rogers
Dog Heaven // C. Rylant
Cat Heaven // C. Rylant
The Tenth Good Thing about Barney // J Viorst
Remembering My Pet // N. Liss-Levinson, M. Phinney Baskette

*Please read the books BEFORE reading to your child. Make sure the book is appropriate for your child’s age and your family’s beliefs.

Reading for Adults

Coping with Sorrow on the Loss of Your Pet // M. Anderson
Grieving Child: A Parent’s Guide // H Fitzgerald
Pet Loss and Human Bereavement // W. Kay
A Final Act of Caring: Ending the Life of an Animal Friend // M. Montgomery
Pet Loss: Thoughtful Guide for Adults and Children // H. Neiburg
It’s Okay To Cry // M.L. Quintana
The Loss of a Pet: A guide to Coping with the Grieving Process When a Pet Dies // W. Sife
What Now? Support for You and Your Companion Animal // The Argus Institute at Colorado State University Teaching Hospital

Some of these publications are available at the Summit County Library branches.