Ceremonies can help. Consider burying your dog’s remains or perhaps his collar and a favorite toy for a sense of closure. When we lost our first Australian Shepherd, my husband and I buried his ashes and planted a Gentle Shepherd day lily over the spot. We hung his tags on a hook by the lily. When we moved, the lily came with us, and so did our memories. I know people—adults as well as children—who take comfort in assembling a photo album or scrapbook about their dog. Going through pictures of him as a puppy, an adolescent, and an adult can help soften grief with happy memories. Many people make a donation to a rescue group or a local humane society in honor of their dog. If your dog died of an inherited disease, you might want to make a donation to canine health research in his name. You will know what feels right to you. Losing a pet is one of the saddest and most stressful experiences in our lives. Some people don’t understand this. Don’t let them embarrass you or demean your grief. You and other members of your family need to talk to someone who understands in order to begin healing. If you don’t know anyone you feel you can confide in, consider calling one of the following services. They will understand what you’re going through. They’ll listen, and they’ll offer suggestions to help you through this difficult time.

Pet Loss Grief Counseling Services

California

530-752-4200, or toll-free 1-800-565-1526. Staffed by University of California-Davis veterinary students.

Florida

352-392-4700; then dial 1 and 4080. Staffed by University of Florida veterinary students.

Illinois

630-603-3994. Staffed by Chicago Veterinary Medical Association veterinarians and staff. Leave voice-mail message; calls will be returned 7 P.M. to 9 P.M. (CT). 217-244-2273 or toll-free 1-877-394-2273 (CARE). Staffed by University of Illinois veterinary students. Leave voicemail message; calls will be returned 7 P.M. to 9 P.M. (CT), Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.

Iowa

1-888-ISU-PLSH. Hosted by the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Maryland and Virginia

540-231-8038. Staffed by Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine students.

Massachusetts

508-839-7966. Staffed by Tufts University veterinary students.

Michigan

517-432-2696. Staffed by Michigan State University veterinary students.

New York

607-253-3932. Staffed by Cornell University veterinary students.

Ohio

614-292-1823. Staffed by The Ohio State University veterinary students.

Washington

509-335-5704. Hosted by Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.