Pet . Therapy. Notes...
Loss Comes In Many Forms.
Grief Comes In Many Forms.
Here, we talk about all of them.
Relationships are complicated. And beautiful.
And sometimes devastating.
Maybe you've lost a pet you're madly in love with, and the world just fell out from under you.
When we lose a pet, we lose not only their physical presence but also a part of ourselves. We lose the silent witness to the most personal moments of our lives, and the routine and structure that shaped our days.
I get it.
Maybe you're grieving the lack of connection you feel with your pet.
Pet ownership isn't always the idyllic experience we see in Hallmark movies, and there is a distinct feeling of shame in admitting that the relationship isn't going well. Training has the power to transform relationships, but there is an entire emotional aspect we also need to address.
If your pet is struggling, it's likely you are too.
You'll find support here.
"Pet Therapy Notes" is a collection of my original writing and my most well-loved external resources to help pet parents navigate the many ways we experience and cope with pet loss.
Pet Therapy Notes was initially born out of my personal pet loss journey, and its primary focus was on pet loss as we traditionally think of it.
Medical Euthanasia.
Anticipatory Grief.
Guilt, Regret & Shame.
Accidents & Traumatic Loss.
Adopting After Loss.
Years later, with my next dog, I experienced a very different brand of grief, so the site has since expanded to include the “stigmatized” losses too.
Behavioral Euthanasia.
Rehoming (grieving a pet that's still living).
Incomplete losses (lost, unknown outcome)
Strained Relationships (it's not always love at first sight).
The name "Pet Therapy NOTES" comes from my love writing.
The “Tell Your TAIL” page encourages writing and other creative expressions to both facilitate healing and keep your pet's memory alive.
As an Intake Specialist at a municipal shelter, I'm passionate about keeping pet-human families together amid the structural barriers we face. The “solution center” contains financial and behavioral resources to keep families intact. And of course, the reality is that sometimes rehoming is necessary, so you will also find resources on how to do it safely, responsibly, and through a non-shaming lens.
I have a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology and over twenty years of experience in animal rescue, where I’ve developed a deep love and empathy for the pet-human bond. With that said, I am not a practicing clinician, and none of this should be considered professional advice. I do not offer individual counseling or support, but you can find helping professionals & support groups here.
I earn no income here, so please know that everything I share comes from an authentic place. It's basically a glorified hobby.
We all have something that brings meaning to our lives- this is mine.
Welcome in, and take a look around.
Liz
