Losing an animal companion can be an isolating experience and one that is not well understood.  This program is for anyone grieving the loss of a beloved animal friend.

 Join us for support and community.

 

IN SUPPORT OF THOSE WHO ARE GRIEVING THE LOSS OF THEIR PET, BIRCHBARK OFFERS A FREE COMMUNITY SERVICE within California

BirchBark’s Pet Loss programs provide much-needed support for those who have suffered the loss of one of their most special friends. 

All sessions are facilitated by professionals with expertise in grief counseling. These empathetic and caring volunteers are dedicated to building healthier communities by providing professional and compassionate sessions for individuals, families, and children experiencing the loss of a beloved pet. BirchBark’s sessions provide a safe and comforting place for individuals and families to express their feelings and work through their grief.

 
 

We are currently offering group sessions and one-on-one private phone call sessions. Pet loss counseling is restricted to attendees residing in California.

To register for a session, please fill out our request form or call our Office line at (831) 471-7255

BirchBark’s Pet Loss Support program is a free support service available to all residents of California. BirchBark is a 501(c)3 non-profit and is dependent on the generosity of our pet loving community to provide financial resources for our services. 

Please consider making a monthly or one-time donation to help assure BirchBark continues to grow and help all pet families in need.


 

Alternative Self-Help Options

Nurturing the Human-Animal Bond through End of Life

As pets get older the human-animal bond gets stronger. All of us at BirchBark Foundation understand the dedication that pet owners have for their animal family members and how much we want to make the best decisions for our pets, especially when it is time to say goodbye. Knowing when to let that special family member go is a difficult and and heart-wrenching decision. In addition to the grief support that we offer, there are a number of other resources that you may find helpful.

Peaceful Paws, a veterinary hospice service in Santa Cruz and surrounding communities, has a wonderful list of grief resources that, in addition to BirchBark's Pet Loss Grief Support, you may find helpful. We repeat Peaceful Paws's list here. You may also find this list of resources on Peaceful Paws's website.

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Argus Institute Counseling and Support Services

The Argus Institute provides free grief counseling relating to pet loss and support to those making end-of-life decisions for their pets. Founded in 1984, this unique program is one of the longest standing, most comprehensive programs of its kind. Clinical counselors offer support to people who are facing difficult decisions regarding their pets’ health and help them manage the challenges of caring for a sick animal.

Click here for more information on the Argus Institute.