How Pet Loss Grief Differs from Other Grief
- How pet loss is often minimized by others
- Why typical support systems may be unavailable
- Unrealistic expectations about the grief process
Why Understanding Pet Bonding is Key to Compassionate Counseling
- History of the human animal bond
- Three types of pet bonds counselors need to know
- The economics of pet bonds
- Cultural and familial norms of pet relationships
Strategies to Help Clients Grieve Without Fear of Judgement
- How to help clients understand the nature of a disenfranchised grief
- Strategies to help clients externalize grief thoughts and feelings
- How to find like-minded supports for clients
- Techniques for educating clients and others on what is appropriate in grief
Helping Clients with Pets Nearing the End
- Understanding anticipatory grief
- The role of pet parent and caregiver
- How to help clients develop a trusting relationship with their veterinarian
- Palliative care vs. Hospice care issues
Effective Interventions for Anger and Guilt
- Strategies to help clients cope with anger, guilt and regret
- Teach clients to use a caregiver journal to name and express feelings
- Positive self-talk exercises to help clients heal
- Role of religion and belief in spirit
- How clients can make a special place to honor and remember pets
- The role of the veterinarian or pet memorial park
- Continuing bonds to provide comfort and support
- Use linking objects exercises to reduce the impact of loss
How to Create and Lead Pet Loss Support Groups
- Group types -- closed or open, self-help or educational
- Implementation and marketing strategies for your group
- 3 ways to quickly build trust and rapport with group members
- How to ensure group safety


