The loss of a family pet can be a deeply emotional and often underestimated grief. Pets are more than animals — they are companions, sources of comfort, and members of the family. Whether the loss comes after years of companionship or far too soon, it can leave a quiet but powerful emptiness in everyday life. The routines, the quiet presence, and the unconditional love they offered are missed in ways that can be hard to explain to those who haven’t experienced it.
There is heartache. But there is also hope. Honoring that bond and giving ourselves space to mourn is not only natural — it’s an important part of healing after saying goodbye.
Join our very own Dr. Mark Vande Braak on Wednesday, July 16, 2025 at 1 PM CT as he leads an online, educational grief support session to explore the unique loss associated with the death of a family pet.
This offering is part of “Dr. Mark’s Grief Support Series,” a program of year-round educational grief/loss support provided by Lutheran Family Service. Each session will focus on a different area of loss as presented by Dr. Mark, an expert with more than 30 years of mental healthcare experience in death and trauma. This is a FREE series with no registration fee. If you would like to join this session on the loss of a pet, sign up below. Please share with anyone who may be grieving a loss of this kind.
