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Pet loss and bereavement

Grieving for the loss of a pet, whether through death or enforced separation, can be a very sad and difficult experience. Life, once filled with the love and friendship of a pet, may suddenly seem very empty.

Feelings of despair, loneliness and even depression can be overwhelming.

These feelings are normal and a testimony to the special bond between people and their pets. Unfortunately, not everyone understands this grief and it can be a very lonely experience.

Support for bereaved pet owners

Support is available for anyone who who has lost a pet, or is about to part with a pet, through the Pet Bereavement Support Service run by The Blue Cross and SCAS. 

This is a confidential telephone and email service that offers emotional support to pet owners through a national network of trained volunteer befrienders. Since its launch in 1994, the service was helped thousands of pet owners of all ages and from all walks of life. Losing a pet of any kind can be very painful and all contact with the service is treated sensitively and with compassion.

Telephone support
The support line is open seven days a week 8:30am - 8:30pm with an answerphone outside these hours. To make contact, call the freephone number 0800 096 6606.

A co-ordinator will put you directly through to an available befriender.  Calls are free, but charges may be applied to some mobile phone networks. 

Support by email
The Pet Bereavement Support Service also offers an email service for people who prefer to write about how they are feeling.

Pet memorial
You may wish to remember a pet in a special and lasting way with a photograph or by writing a few words or a poem. You can create an online memorial on page by visiting the website.

For more information on all aspects of the Pet Bereavement Support Service, please visit the Blue Cross PBSS website