Pet Loss Support: Hotlines & Resources
You don't have to grieve alone. These free hotlines and resources connect you with trained counselors and communities who understand the depth of losing a pet.
Free Pet Loss Hotlines
ASPCA Pet Loss Hotline
(877) 474-3310
Available 24/7
Free grief counseling from the ASPCA. Trained counselors available around the clock.
Tufts University Pet Loss Support Helpline
(508) 839-7966
Mon-Fri, 6-9 PM ET
Staffed by veterinary students trained in grief counseling at Tufts Cummings School.
Cornell University Pet Loss Support Hotline
(607) 218-7457
Tue-Thu, 6-9 PM ET
Veterinary students at Cornell provide compassionate listening and support.
UC Davis Pet Loss Support Hotline
(530) 752-4200
Mon-Fri, 6:30-9:30 PM PT
Run by the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. Free and confidential.
Iowa State University Pet Loss Support Hotline
(888) 478-7574
Sep-Apr: Mon-Fri call for hours
Trained veterinary students offer comfort and support during the academic year.
Online Support Communities
Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement (APLB)
Free online chat rooms, support groups, and counseling referrals for pet loss grief.
Visit website →The Ralph Site
UK-based pet loss support with forums, resources, and a dedicated support community.
Visit website →Lap of Love Pet Loss Support
Virtual pet loss support groups and resources from a veterinary end-of-life care provider.
Visit website →When to Seek Professional Help
Pet grief is normal and can be intense. However, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor if:
- Your grief is interfering with work, relationships, or daily functioning
- You feel isolated because others don't understand your loss
- You have thoughts of self-harm
- Your grief is not lessening after several months
- You feel overwhelming guilt about your pet's death
Look for therapists who specialize in grief counseling or specifically in pet bereavement. The APLB maintains a directory of pet loss counselors.