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2010 Bereavement Meeting Schedule
| March | 03rd & 17th & 31st
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| April | 14th & 28th
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| May | 12th & 26th
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| June | 09th & 23rd
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| July | 07th & 21st
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| August | 04th & 18th
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| September | 01st & 15th & 29th
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| October | 13th & 27th
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| November | 10th & 24th
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| December | 08th & 22nd
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Meetings Start at 7pm
Please call (732) 747-3636 to confirm dates in advance.
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COPING WITH PET LOSS
Red Bank Veterinary Hospital understands that the loss of a pet is a deeply painful and emotional experience. Our staff
members are also pet owners who have celebrated the human-animal bond and mourned the passing of many cherished animal friends.
We are here to provide understanding of the emotionsthat accompany the loss of a beloved companion animal. Following the death of
your pet, you may experience feelings of grief such as denial, anger, depression and guilt. The effects are often felt
emotionally, physically and spiritually. This is part of the normal grief process.
Some pet owners are fortunate to have friends and family who understand these emotions.
Others may not have the support they need. Well-meaning friends and family who do not understand the sense of loss that
you're experiencing may inadvertently minimize your feelings, leaving you to feel even more alone. Hiding your grief does
not help it go away. Talking and sharing your thoughts with others who have lost an animal companion can be comforting
and therapeutic.
Remembering the joyful times and special memories of your pet is an integral part of the grieving process. You and your
pet shared a precious bond. Your grief is genuine and you'll require love, patience, and compassion as you heal. During
this most vulnerable of times, please offer yourself the same loving kindness that you bestowed so generously upon your pet.
Our Pet Loss Support Group provides a safe, nurturing environment for pet owners to meet, learn and support one
another. This group is open to all interested participants and is free of charge. Children are also welcome.
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In addition to pet loss support, we provide assistance to pet owners experiencing anticipatory grief. This is a feeling
of grief that occurs prior to the actual death of a pet. It may be experienced by those caring for a senior pet or a chronically ill or
terminally ill pet. Learning how to cope with an expected loss may occasionally require emotional assistance and support. Feel free to contact
us for more information.
GROUP SUPPORT
The Pet Loss Support Group is led by a licensed social worker and certified pet loss bereavement counselor.
Kim White, MSW, is certified in Thanatology (grief and bereavement) and is a member of the Association for Death,
Education and Counseling and the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement. She may be reached by emailing her
at kimwhite216@verizon.net
Carol Doherty is a certified bereavement counselor through the Association for Pet Loss & Bereavement. She has also
worked as a veterinary technician for 12 years.
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