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Pet Loss & Grief Support

Honoring the Bond. Navigating the Grief. You're Not Alone.

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At Pet Sitting 4 Comfort® (PS4C), we understand how deeply pets become part of our families. Whether you've recently experienced a loss or you're anticipating a goodbye, this page offers resources, support, and space to grieve.

 

We’ve supported many long-term clients through the final stages of life with their pets—some we've known since they were puppies or kittens. Your grief is valid, and we’re here to help you honor their memory.

Where to Begin

Grief after the loss of a beloved pet can be overwhelming, confusing, and deeply personal. There is no “right” way to mourn.
 

Some pet parents feel sudden emptiness, others feel guilt or anger. All of it is normal.

 

If you're looking for a place to start, we recommend these first steps:

  • Give yourself permission to grieve in your own way

  • Reach out to others who understand—whether friends, family, or professionals

  • Create a small tribute or memorial, even something as simple as lighting a candle or framing a favorite photo

National Grief Support Resources

Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement (APLB)

  • Grief support chat rooms

  • Counseling directories

  • Virtual memorial tools
    Visit APLB Website

Local Support in Northern Virginia

Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA)

  • Supportive team and grief guides

  • Tribute donations available in memory of your pet
    Visit AWLA Arlington

Memorial Ideas & Keepsakes

Here are simple, meaningful ways to honor your pet’s memory:

  • Plant a tree or garden in their name

  • Create a photo album or scrapbook

  • Commission a portrait

  • Donate pet food or supplies to a shelter in their honor

  • Write a letter to your pet or share memories with loved ones

 

If your pet was a client of PS4C, we’re happy to add a tribute to our private memorial archive. Please reach out if you'd like to share a few words or photos.

Grieving With Children

Helping children process a pet’s death can be especially hard.

 

We recommend:​

  • Letting kids create a goodbye letter, drawing, or keepsake

  • Explaining that it's okay to feel sad, angry, or confused

You're Not Alone

Grief doesn't follow a schedule. Whether it's been days or years, your pet mattered—and so does your grief.

If you need help, want to share a memory, or simply wish someone remembered your pet’s name, we’re here.

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