Pet Loss Grief Support Group
Whether you’re struggling with end of life decisions or have lost a pet, HSHV provides a Pet Loss Support Group so that you can connect with others managing this difficult time, too. We urge you to consider attending. The group is open to the public (you do not need to have adopted from us), drop-ins are welcome, and meetings are typically held every third Sunday of the month at the Humane Society of Huron Valley conference room. The sessions are facilitated by Cōlleen O’Brien of Blue Dog Counseling. You can attend in-person or virtually (via Zoom).
Cōlleen O’Brien, founder of Blue Dog Counseling, is an expert at developing creative therapeutic interventions to support individuals, couples, families, and other groups. Her personal commitment to animal welfare, her own experience as a devoted pet owner, and a passion for supporting people led her to create Blue Dog Counseling. Cōlleen is dedicated to providing a safe, open, and creative space for discussion. A place where you can take time for yourself.
Please know that while we support all group members we are not able to provide crisis or on-call support outside of group. Whenever possible Cōlleen will work with group participants to identify additional support related to their unique needs. Group participants who are observed to be in immediate crisis will be referred to their nearest psychiatric emergency room to ensure the highest level of safety and care. Anyone in need of immediate emotional support may reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Please note that this is for anyone experiencing emotional distress. https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
You can attend in-person (in HSHV’s conference room, 3100 Cherry Hill Road, Ann Arbor) or virtually (via Zoom). To join virtually, use this link: Zoom Link (you will be asked to enter your name and email address upon entering the meeting for safety purposes and the link will then be sent to your email address.)
Donations are not required, but are greatly appreciated. $10 is the suggested donation.
Questions? Please contact our Humane Education Team: (734) 661-3575 or email karenp@hshv.org
Supporting Children through Pet Loss
**In person family support groups are in the works! Stay tuned!**
How do you talk with your kids about losing your pet? How can you support their grieving process? Check out this article from Blue Dog Counseling and suggested books.
