“We understand your grief…”

The death of a pet can be very difficult. Grief isn’t limited to our human friends; it encompasses our family pets as well. If your pet was a special part of your life, its loss can be deeply affecting. To help pet owners who are grieving for a special friend, the Frederick County Humane Society offers Pet Bereavement Sessions.

If you have lost a pet… let us help

Who are Pet Bereavement Sessions for?
While focused on pet owners who have recently lost a pet, the bereavement sessions may also be helpful to pet owners who are considering options for an aging or seriously ill pet. They may also help someone who has just given up a pet or who wants to help a grieving pet owner.

What happens in a Pet Bereavement Session?
Professional counselors talk with participants in a small, casual setting about the stages of grief and the feelings they may be experiencing. Your participation in the discussion based entirely on your own personal comfort level. Why should I attend? Bereavement sessions may be helpful if you are feeling overwhelmed with grief or if you feel as though your friends and family do not understand why your are so upset when “it’s only an animal”

Is there a fee to attend Pet Bereavement Sessions?
No. Pet Bereavement sessions are free of charge, and no advanced registration is required.

Where are the Pet Bereavement Sessions held?
These sessions take place at the offices of the Frederick County Humane Society located at 5712-D Industry Lane in Frederick, near Route 85. Call the Humane Society for directions at 301 694-8300.

When are the Pet Bereavement Sessions?
They are held on the third Wednesday of every month. Each session begins at 7:00 p.m.

About our counselors:
Terry L. Martin is Associate Professor of Psychology and Thanatology at Hood College. He is a licensed clinical professional counselor and maintains a private practice dedicated to loss and death-related issues. Dr. Martin is a consultant to Hospice of Frederick County and has published numerous chapters and papers on grief and loss. He is the co-author of the book Men Don’t Cry, Women Do.

Dr. Dana Cable is a Professor of Psychology and Thanatology at Hood College. He lectures internationally on death, dying and bereavement. He is the author of a book entitled Death and Dying: The Universal Experiences. Dr. Cable maintains a private practice specializing in grief therapy.