Grief Support

Grief is the normal response to any important loss in life. It occurs regardless of whether death followed a prolonged illness or a sudden accident. The health care team of South Des Moines Veterinary Center is here to support you during this difficult time.  While each of us must find our own way of coping with grief, remember that others have felt similar pain.

The following resources are available to help you during this difficult time:

• Pet Memorial Service (held annually by SDMVC)
  
  

• Euthanasia Counseling (by appointment at SDMVC)
  
  

• Books we have available for loan:
  Will I see Fido in Heaven?
  Grieving the Death of a Pet
  Goodbye, Dear Friend
  Dog Heaven
  Cat Heaven

Internet Resources

• Iowa State University Pet Loss Support
• American Veterinary Medical Association Grief Counseling
• Argus Institute (dedicated to the Human-Animal Bond)
• Iowa Veterinary Medical Association (contains a brief list of books dealing with pet loss)
• http://www.lightning-strike.com/index.htm (a cyber shoulder to lean on)
• http://www.pet-loss.net (Dr. Moira Anderson Allen shares ideas on coping with pet loss)
  
  

• Iowa State University Pet Loss Support Hotline: 1-888-478-7574
  
  
• Pet Memorials

• Animal Rescue League of Iowa Pet Memorial
• Iowa State University Companion Animal Fund
• Iowa Veterinary Specialties Animal Care Foundation
• Loving Rest Pet Cemetery