The loss of a pet can be as traumatic as losing a human friend.
(JENNIFER STAHN / iNFOnews.ca)
August 13, 2019 - 6:00 PM
KELOWNA -Humans suffering through the loss of a beloved pet will soon be able to access support thanks to a regular meeting getting underway in Kelowna next week.
“It’s a well-known fact that owning a pet can improve their owner’s quality of life," Okanagan Pet Cremation says in a press release."Not only do they help keep you moving, but they can also help reduce depression, stress and loneliness. These beloved fur babies become an integral part of our families. So when we lose a pet, the grief can be just as painful (or more so) as losing a human loved one. This loss can leave pet parents with unresolved grief that can be a challenging struggle to work through.”
A Pet Loss Grief Forum was held for pet professionals in March but these free sessions are geared to the pet owners and will be facilitated by Cammie Ouellette.
"Sharing stories of grief and mourning together in a supportive atmosphere with others who have experienced similar losses lets people know they are not alone," Ouellette said in the news release.
"When we lose a beloved pet, it helps to acknowledge our loss, and express our grief to work through our pain. These informal get-togethers will allow people to mourn the loss of their pet with others in a comfortable, understanding atmosphere."
People are encouraged to share photos or other memorabilia to help tell their stories.
The first session is Aug. 21st, from 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Malachite Midwives Clinic, 1955 Bowes St. Kelowna. Space is limited so pet owners are asked to register at griefsupport@okanaganpetcremation.ca or call/text to 250-863-8163.
The list of future dates can be found here or on Facebook here.
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