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​Pet Therapy Notes was born out of my grief journey following the loss of my soul dog. Losing him broke me. To better understand what I was going through and how to move forward, I became fascinated with learning everything I could about pet loss. My journey began eight years ago and continues today. I never intended for pet loss to become my passion in life, but here I am.

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Sometimes it's hard to find the resources you need - especially if you are emotionally exhausted - which is why I created this website. I like to consider visiting Pet Therapy Notes like entering an Urgent Care, seeking emotional first aid after losing a pet. I write about various aspects of pet loss—everything from anticipatory grief to bringing a new pet into your life after loss. Closest to my heart, I designed a “Tell Your TAIL” page that encourages writing and other creative mediums as tools to not only facilitate healing, but also keep your pet's memory alive. If and when you're ready to go there, it may take some time, or never be the thing for you.
 

In addition to my work, I’ve curated resources over the years that have helped me cope with all things pet loss. You will find book recs, articles, podcasts, videos, personal essays, memorial products, and more. This site intentionally generates no income, so rest assured, there are no ads or affiliate sponsorships. I've either had personal experience with the things on this site, or was introduced to it by someone who has.

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I leave you with this: Heartbreaking doesn’t seem like a strong enough word to describe the feelings associated with pet loss. It's harrowing. It's gutting. The most profound thing I've learned from my experience with grief is that it will always hurt, but it won’t always hurt THIS  much. The scar will always be present, but it won't always be THIS  painful to the touch. Not my most articulate statement, but my most sincere. We don’t get over loss, but at some point, we move forward - sometimes kicking and screaming, but we adjust to our After. The memories will live on forever, and that scar in your heart is a beautiful reminder of that. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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Sending hugs from Baltimore,

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Liz

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As a side pocket of this website, I also feel strongly about recognizing stigmatized pet losses commonly associated with shame, including being forced to rehome a beloved pet, losing a pet through divorce, loss through a pet going missing, and behavioral euthanasia - there are resources for all of it here.

 

And then there is the grief (maybe even shame) we may feel about not having the idyllic relationship we expected to share with our pet. You are not alone, and talking about it isn't taboo. Opening up about the challenges instead of simply resenting your pet is the first step to accepting, appreciating, and loving the one we're with, so check out my relationship advice. 

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​All feelings are welcome here.