Pet Loss Resources
The information and resources provided below offer guidance regarding the profound grief in losing an animal companion and help to provide comfort during this difficult time. There are also resources to help provide support and guidance during the final stages of your pets life.
Nicole Handsman, LCSW
Pet loss is one of the deepest heartbreaks we experience. As a licensed clinical social worker and pet grief expert, I offer compassionate support to help you heal—on a peaceful farm where animals provide their natural comfort and presence.
You are not alone.
Your grief is real.
And your love is never lost
Nicole is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing nature-based grief therapy for individuals navigating the sacred transition of pet loss.
10 Sacred Truths About Pet Loss and Grief
adapted from Nicole Handsman
- Grief for an animal is real, valid, and sacred.
There is no right way to grieve. Your feelings matter. - Your pet was more than a pet—
They were your companion, guide, and soul mirror.
Losing them can feel like losing part of yourself. - Sometimes animal loss hurts more than human
loss.
Their love was unconditional, their presence constant. - They are still with you—in energy, in memory, in
love.
Dreams, signs, and sensations are often how they
continue to speak. - You may feel guilt, confusion, or “what-ifs.”
This is normal. Your love was real. And they know that.
- You are not alone.
Grief can isolate us, but you do not have to walk this alone. You can be held. - There is no timeline.
Love doesn’t follow a clock. Honor your rhythm. - Your animal’s gift wasn’t just love—it was self-
love.
They want you to treat yourself with the same tenderness you gave them. - Healing can unfold in silence.
Other animals may gently mirror the love your companion still sends. - Love doesn’t end when life does.
Their paw prints are in your heart. Always.
The University Of Tennessee Veterinary Social Work Help Link
The University of Tennessee Veterinary Social Work Help Line is dedicated to helping individuals dealing with pet loss and grief or the stress of caring for a pet with a life limiting illness.
Helpline : (865)755-8839, Monday through Friday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Blue Ridge Humane Society in Hendersonville offers an in person pet loss support group.
Sessions are held every third Wednesday of the month from 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM at 802 S. Grove Street, Hendersonville, NC 28792.
blueridgehumane.org
Robin A. Avery, Ph.D. Offers individual counseling for those anticipating the loss of a sweet companion as well as those who have lost their beloved pet.
305-992-0370
robinaveryphd.com
Christy Gunther MA, LPC, LCAS Offers individual pet loss counseling. Covered by most health insurance. 3 Woodfin Rd. Asheville, NC 28804
(828) 258-3229.
SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN
The following website the Pragmatic Mom offers a wonderful review of several children’s books covering the topic of pet loss.
https://www.pragmaticmom.com/2012/02/top-10-best-coping-with-loss-of-pets-childrens-picture-books-and-giveaway/
