
When people think of what it must be like to be a veterinarian, they often assume I play with puppies and kittens all day.  While that might be true on rare occasions, the majority of my job is working with adult, senior, and geriatric dogs and cats.  I mention this, because as a vet, I am witness to all stages of a pet’s life — birth through death. I am there when you first brought your puppy or kitten in, full of excitement, and I am there when you need to say goodbye to your furry companion, full of sadness. Â
As a veterinarian, my role in your pet’s healthcare ends when we say goodbye.  But what of the aftercare of the grieving family left behind? Traditionally, I mourn with the family in the moments after the pet has passed and then, when they are ready, the family walks out my door, heads low.  In the past, I was comforted by knowing that their pet was in a better place, at peace and no longer in pain, and that I had helped to make that happen. But since opening Passionate Paws, I have often wondered if there was more I could do for the families to help them beyond just saying goodbye. Â
Over the last year we have been excited to offer pet parents an aftercare resource that extends beyond my door and has helped heal families grieving over the loss of a furry family member. Â In partnership with Faithful Companion Pet Cremation Services, a pet grief support group is available to not only my clients but to any pet parent that is grieving. The group is led by a licensed therapist, specializing in bereavement. Â The group meets every third Tuesday of the month at the South Mecklenburg Presbyterian Church at 8601 Bryant Farms Rd, Charlotte, NC 28277. Â The next meeting is June 18 at 7 p.m. Â To learn more, please visit www.petgriefgroup.com or call us at 704-256-7576. Â